James at Functional Patterns posses an impressive depth of knowledge in physical training. He clearly explains the principles behind the methods and is able to address any questions or concerns I have. Working with him has not only improved my fitness but also educated me about my body and how it moves. Highly recommend! read more

I went here on a recommendation to fix my knocked knees. I was told to get surgery over and over again by doctors and orthopedists. But I didn't want surgery and it's complications that go with it. I did this instead. After most of my life with severe knocked knees, they have changed to within the normal bounds of leg movement and look. This place changed my life. I was looking to be stuck with this issue most of my life with limited mobility and further leg injury. Now I can see myself running in the near future without issues. The change took 9 months to get where I'm at in the present photo. Words cannot express how much gratitude and appreciation I have. Thank you so much Jonathan. read more

Functional Patterns Oakland - Before and 9 months after. - Gyms Near Me - Oakland, California

A part of me does not necessarily want to leave this review but another part of me feels I want to for closure. Let me start by saying that Jonathan is well educated in functional anatomy, he's easy to get along with and a kind person, and the space he's created is spacious and clean. I think his rates are fair and the group classes are an excellent deal if you live nearby. The bad news: I happened to be born with a stupid genetic defect called pectus excavatum and because of this stupid defect all my hard work trying to create a functional body was - to a degree - pointless. I would leave a session feeling that my acute suffering caused by my computer was neutralized but then within 48 hours regress to how I was before. Even with doing work every day at home to try and maintain the results! My main point is this: functional patterns as a system believes that you can fix pectus through movement. While you may be able to improve your posture and breathing to a degree through specific movement routines, it is almost impossible to correct a severe case of pectus excavatum through movement alone. I finally admitted my powerlessness over the problem and decided to trust the #1 surgeon in the country (Dr. J @ Mayo Clinic) to fix my 6.6 Haller Index pectus. Now that I am through the acute recovery process and doing normal activities again it seems hilarious and cute to me that I thought I could achieve such an effect on my own. Pectus is a VERY misunderstood condition, often labeled as "cosmetic" by medical professionals and deemed something that you're not trying hard enough to fix by exercise professionals. I just want anyone else who has it to know that you are operating at a massive disadvantage compared to people who do not have it and your lack of results is not for lack of effort! I'd consider returning to FP Oakland if it made sense in my schedule and needs because now I think Jonathan's training could really make a difference. Sad that I didn't get helped earlier in my life but I probably wouldn't have an interest in posture at all if I had been! read more

FIRST AND FOREMOST: I was messed up ... recovering slowly from injury and illness. Totally disconnected from my body. My once-aggressive physical activity had diminished. I had to start moving again. And I hate gyms. THAT SAID: This was exactly what I needed. THE WORKOUT: Is based on optimized body mechanics. In a circuit, you jump, hop, lift, pull, throw stuff, kick, squat, and punch for an hour. Sometimes using dumbbells, kettlebells, batons, or bands, and sometimes just your own weight. It's as challenging as you want to make it, and always fun. Changes in eight-week cycles. THE FOCUS: Can be on strength, balance, or cardio. THE TRAINER: Jonathan is a kinesiologist who focuses on biomechanically sound movement. So he teaches HOW to move before what to move. He's your instructor, cheerleader, and punisher all in one. He also teaches classes on ancient battle techniques, including long sword. It looks pretty cool. BETTER STILL: He's helped mitigate some nagging joint issues by guiding my focus on moving in more structurally sound ways. IN BRIEF: The place delivers good direction, fun movement, and a convivial neighborhood vibe. I have lost some weight and feel pretty good in my body for the first time in a long time. read more

This is a lovely space that feels thought out and welcoming. I tried out 2 group classes which I enjoyed for the workout and the energy. One-on-one sessions were helpful in achieving a better idea of my posture and how to improve it. read more

Go here. Try the free Natural Fitness Saturday class at 11am. Clean, motivating and challenging - those are my main criteria for a studio. RelicTree Natural Fitness classes have hit these marks for over a year! Im fairly active and have *many* previous injuries to contend with during workouts. Jonathan gives us modifications to be able to work into the more challenging moves and avoid injury. From week 1 to 8, you WILL notice a difference. Before starting the 6 days a week process, I couldn't: - Do a handstand - Jumprope - Do a pull up - Jump lunge - Press up rotating through the shoulders Now I can, but I do it better, longer, and stronger! I trust Jonathan (and Sonya :) with my fitness. PS - we need/want more dance parties read more

Relic tree fitness's owner and instructor Jonathan runs a great program, and his wife/co-owner is a delight to interact with. No matter what your skill level is, the class is suited for you and challenging. I've been attending for a better part of a year and I still love the workouts, and I'm in as good shape as I've ever been in. Plus my body doesn't hurt like it had from other forms of exercise I used to do. The price is fair, and I find it easy to motivate to get there. I recommend signing up for the Natural Fitness program and giving it a try. The classes have males and females, young and old, people who have been working out for years and people who are just getting started -- It's a judgement free zone that will make you fit and feel better about your self. There are classes at 5:30 AM, 6:30 AM, 7:30 AM monday to friday; and 6:30 PM Monday to Thursday. Plus morning classed on Saturda read more

I used to love coming here for Nia class before I got sciatica. I got to go again today with the new name. The space is still the same and the floors are still freezing cold. Not good for my sciatica boohoo. read more

This place has been life-changing for me! I suffer from bad back issues (herniated disc, sciatica) and terrible posture which has prevented me from getting into a good workout routine. I started training with Jonathan two months ago, and what a noticeable difference! I feel much more agile and energetic, and I have gotten several unsolicited comments on my improved posture from friends and family. The Natural Fitness approach has worked very well for me, they are on to something here. Jonathan has an incredible attention to detail and I feel he is 100% focused on me from beginning to end. He is knowledgeable and friendly, and has been very responsible to my needs. I know others who go here and say the same things (including another person whose back pain has gone away from coming here). I am working up to starting regular group classes (which look intense), but I'm hooked on this spot. It is family owned and run, and you can tell people love the community. Go! read more

This review is solely for the Nia Jam that took place on 1/9/16. The space itself is gorgeous, well lit, with very clean bathrooms and a welcoming staff. I previously enjoyed taking Nia classes in 2013, so was eager to take Nia again after a hiatus. The class itself (which was free) had 3 instructors - each taught 1/3 of the class. All the Nia instructors were very enthusiastic and positive. The moves were simple - definitely geared towards beginners, which is fine, but I didn't expend much energy compared to Nia classes elsewhere. The transitions for the first two instructors seemed abrupt. My favorite was the 3rd instructor, who had the most dynamic (but simplest choreography), plus, she reminded everyone to NOT wear scented products. Hallelujah. When I walked into the room, I immediately smelled someone's perfume and it lingered in my nose for the entire class. Tried moving to different rows, but the scent was omnipresent. People put their belongings (jackets, purses, shoes etc.) on the narrow shelves in lining the back and side of the studio. I used an entire shelf for my ski jacket, since it was bulky and put my shoes on the shelf below. There were people in class who wore shoes, others had bare feet. At other Nia classes I've taken, there was a "no shoes" policy. Didn't feel comfortable in bare feet since I saw others had shoes on, so I kept my socks on (and then wished I had worn my grippy socks). Initially, the music wasn't that loud, so I thought I could do without earplugs, but then the first instructor cranked the volume up. Throughout class, there was a photographer taking pics from time to time. At the end of class, the first instructor raffled off different prizes and also brought some of her shirts (with cut out back) that she designed for sale. In spite of these issues, I did manage to smile throughout class - these instructors worked hard at creating an uplifting vibe. I'm glad that I visited Relictree and appreciate them offering this Nia Jam to the public. Parking on a Saturday was surprisingly not a problem - found neighborhood parking a few blocks away. read more

If all gyms were as welcoming as Relictree, a lot more people would be a lot more healthy! Jonathan and Sonya deserve kudos for making this an environment you look forward to coming to. They're friendly, accommodating, and create a really encouraging and nonjudgmental/noncompetitive atmosphere where people are supportive of each other and you end up smiling a lot while working out. Jonathan has been great at tailoring exercises for injuries. He really knows his stuff. The space is absolutely beautiful, and surely one of the best remodels of a former library around. It's not your usual gym in that the Natural Fitness system is something a little different, but it makes for a fun, effective workout in a short timeframe. Great addition to the neighborhood. read more

I HAVE HAD JOHNATHAN AS A PERSONAL TRAINER FOR OVER A YEAR AND HE IS GREAT......I'm 73 and He keeps taking records so I can see how I progressed. He also take great care of paying attention my aches and pains and makes sure I get a full body workout in spite of them. I highly recommend him as a personal trainer. read more

This gym is the best in the area. Jonathan is great to work with and I highly recommend him and Relic Tree.

Great people, great community, great space. I couldn't be happier with this new(ish) addition to my neighborhood.

Outstanding total body fitness program! After being a member for over a year and a half I just renewed my annual membership. The program offers outstanding cross-training that is a distinct departure from more traditional strength-training and fitness approaches; Jonathan's rotation of work-outs keeps my body from 'plateauing' and keeps me from getting bored! The Natural Fitness program offers variety and scale-able challenges that have enhanced my ability to perform at the sports I love - particularly cycling. After taking a hiatus from my bike I was blown away by how much stronger I was after participating in Jonathan's classes; my climbing was particularly improved. I am 58 and am in the best shape of my life. Highly recommended. read more

I can't say enough good things about this place. I've been doing private training sessions with Jonathan, the co-owner, for about 8 months and I have seen significant improvements in my overall fitness. He's helping me overcome past injuries and years of bad posture from being crunched up behind a desk, so that I can work out hard without being afraid of injuring myself again. He's probably the most thoughtful and detail-oriented trainer I've ever worked with. I'm continually impressed by his knowledge of anatomy and movement (he knows a lot about nutrition too, but unfortunately I haven't been as good about following his advice there....). The group exercise classes are also great. Andy is a fantastic coach, and the classes are creative, challenging and fun. They are truly for all levels - there are amazingly fit people and people like me who are getting back into exercise after a long absence. Best of all, Jonathan and his wife Sonya create such a welcoming and encouraging atmosphere. This is a fantastic family-owned business, and I'm so glad they're in the neighborhood! read more

I am in my 5th week of training. It has basically changed my life. I had gotten a bit lazy in my work outs, feeling sloppy and, slightly depressed. I have made some new friends & love the teachers at relictree! Feeling better than I have in years, happier, and getting in shape! The remodel is beautiful and I feel better the minute I walk in the door! read more

I have only tried the Natural Fitness Training class taught by Jonathan early in the morning, but man, am I glad I did. The space is great, he is a great trainer, and class schedule is really convenient and offers lots of options. I am really pleased to have this place in my neighborhood and plan to be a long term patron. Also, want to try out some of their other classes. read more

I have been going to Relictree for almost 2 months now and I can honestly say I couldn't be happier. I haven't been to a class where I didn't like the teacher. Jonathan is an amazingly dedicated teacher who really knows how to motivate! Liz Mac is one of the best Nia instructors I have ever taken a class from. Love it here. read more

I come for the Nia classes. My favorite teacher is Thursday's Laura Geduldig, who is always prepared and attentive, gives us a great workout, and teaches something new about our bodies and movement in every class. My only complaint is that I wish Laura would teach more classes. I've been taking Nia for more than 10 years at many locations in the East Bay and this is one of my favorite classes, ever. The space is beautiful and there's free parking on the nearby streets. Plus, I like going out for coffee next door with other students after class. Relictree is a community treasure. read more

Challenging personal training classes. Makes working out fun and simple. Great community of people. Super friendly fitness instructors. I look forward to going everyday! read more

This place is just what I needed to help motivate me to get and stay in shape. Close to home, regularly scheduled classes, and a solid workout. The workouts are challenging but not so taxing that you can't go for runs on the weekends and do other things. The classes are fun and The owners are welcoming and kind. I feel the workouts are effective with less chance of injury because you use resists and body weight. Try the free class! read more

About a year ago, I went for a consultation at Relic Tree. The owner said I would first need a private session to familiarize myself with the movements and exercises done in the group classes. So I arrived for the private session ($100) , ready to do some stretches and exercises as described by the owner. Instead, he had me lay down on a table and said he would need to work on the fascia covering my muscles and, basically, he gave me a light massage for the hour. It felt creepy - no one else there/ dark room - but my main complaint was that the session was absolutely nothing as he'd described as to what the private session would entail; no stretches, exercises, etc. During the initial consultation, never did he mention anything about the need to work on the fascia; the private session was nothing as he'd described. I would not trust this business. Plus, it is expensive. read more

Love the simple and gracious space and modern amenities. Love the location. Love the classes. Love the staff.

I have been going to relictree since it opened. They have NIA class (which is one of my favorites) three times a week on Sunday, Monday and Thursday, it's a fun movement class and All the teachers are great! The natural fitness class is a lot a fun too! If you're looking for some fun while getting a great workout You should try it! read more

I love everything about this place and am so glad I have discovered it. I have tried many gyms and studios and this is by far the best. The physical space is beautiful and clean. Sonya and Jonathan (who run this place) are so friendly and always welcome everyone with a big smile, so you feel like you are part of a community, rather than just popping in for an exercise class. And the classes and instructors are great - very experienced and attentive and fun. I have attended a number of classes here, but my regular is Nia's Sunday class - and I just LOVE it! It is a great and fun workout and Shelly (the instructor) is truly fantastic. Her choreography is beautiful and the class nurtures not just your body but also your soul. I give it many thumbs up. read more

This review is for the fitness class. Basically I love it! Been doing it for over six months and the results are tremendous. My cardio is vastly improved over my prior workouts of jogging and indoor soccer at the Bladium. The sessions are different depending on the day of the week, and they all change every eight weeks, so it never gets stale. I have been challenged in new ways by having to learn new footwork and coordination, as well as body mechanics. Andy and Jonathan are super knowledgeable and supportive trainers. Last but not least, my classmates are fun and enthusiastic so the energy is great! If I had to give critical feedback, it's that they need to install clothes hooks in the shower rooms. ;) read more

This place is great! Not only is it a beautiful space with large studio, the staff is super friendly and greet you by name. I really enjoy dance classes that are fun but a workout at the same time. I wanted west African dance, but could not find any classes close to home. Then I found Jessie! Whoowhoo!! Her passion for dance shines in each routine. I love that she creates dances that are fun and challenging at the same time. Her global grooves class really teaches you routines and techniques. She also teaches an awesome zumba class, which always leaves me energized. I would like to try out the other classes, such as yoga and boot camp. I have heard good things about them as well. I am a big fan of this place and highly recommend checking it out! read more

Finally took my first class at this neighborhood gem. I took the jumping rope workshop and it was awesome. HARD but very rewarding. I wore my heart rate monitor and I burned over 1000 calories, and I am a very active person. This kicked my butt. The studio is gorgeous and Jonathan and his wife are so wonderful and friendly. A great place! Go and support. read more

This place is the best! I started going to Relic Tree over a year ago when we moved to the neighborhood and haven't regretted it since. In the past year I have gone from barely fit and with frequent back episodes (I had back surgery in 2001) to the strongest and most balanced core I have ever had. The classes are friendly for all levels, all ages, all moods, etc. Can't recommend it enough - a true life changer. Do yourself a favor and sign up for the Natural Fitness classes! read more

Beautiful studio, great classes, easy free parking. Makes getting up and working out stress free, along with the" Yoga for Stress" class Sunday mornings! Studio has wonderful instructors. Jonathan's fitness class is challenging but you get stronger every day. Try out his class for free on Saturdays at 11:00. They're doing a" Learn to Jump Rope" class on Sunday April 27th - can't wait. read more

I have never been so happy since I started going to Relictree Fitness. Jonathan and Sonya are such nice and welcoming people. The studio is modern and clean, and the class options are great. But the best part has been the personal training with Jonathan. I am healthier and more fit than ever before in my life, and I feel great! I totally agree other with the review here about looking forward to going. No dread! Since joining I've signed up my daughter and she loves it too. This place is the absolute best if you want to feel better than ever before. read more

Relictree Fitness is GREAT - good location, beautiful facilities, extremely nice and knowledgeable staff, lots of street parking and a wide variety of courses that are affordable. I'm a workout-novice and they made it easy to feel welcome and proficient. My workout-savvy friend says their Natural Fitness program is excellent and she attends 5 days/week. And she's got the triceps to prove it! Highly recommend this small, fun, personal and excellent gym. read more

Absolutely LOVE this gym!!! I have tried out a lot of fitness studios in Oakland and out of all of them, Relictree and Flying Yoga are BY FAR the best studios! Relictree is so clean and inviting and I am so impressed with the workouts here. My husband purchased an online deal a few months ago before our wedding. I didn't get back into working out until recently and I knew I needed to go all in if I was going to get back in shape. Relictree definitely helped with that push and I am so happy with the classes that Jonathon teaches. He definitely pushes you and his classes are always fun and he brings a lot of energy. I also appreciate the fact that he pays close attention to your form and corrects you if you are doing something wrong. There aren't a lot of instructors who actually do that so thank you Jonathon. I am sad that my deal is running up but hope that I can continue to go to the classes in the future. They are on the pricier side but I can how it is so worth it! read more

My husband and I are finally making time to exercise, and Jonathan and Sonya have provided the right classes to do so. We've done two weeks now of the Natural Fitness classes with Jonathan, who is an outstanding instructor. His classes are available to people at all levels, because he shows options for each exercise. His exercise palette is very creative; the exercises vary each day, from the muscle groups worked on to the length of time each exercise takes. It is not an easy regime for us, but it's do-able and the time goes fast. And, it's already getting easier! The studio is clean and inviting, the atmosphere warm and friendly, and we both started feeling better immediately - more energy, more relaxed, and happier. Thanks, Jonathan and Sonya, for bringing this great opportunity to Glenview! read more

I take the Sunday NIA class with Shelly Ross. She is s gift, her class is awesome. I always leave better than when I arrived. I'm so glad that I found her class. read more

A great gym operated by a wonderful young couple. I got a great workout in Jonathan's group class. There were people of many different ability levels working out at the same time, and he did a great job modifying each exercise to make sure everyone was comfortable. Check it out, you won't regret it. read more

I have been going to Nia classes at Relictree Fitness for over a year, and would like to recommend Shelly R.'s class to anyone new to Nia or otherwise. Shelly has been teaching for over 20 years, is very professional in her approach, and clearly knows a great deal about building strength through movement. Her routines are energetic, yet easy to follow. This class consists mostly of women between the ages of about 30 and 65, and meets on Sunday morning. The space at Relictree is one of the nicest dance/workout studios I have been to, and the staff makes you feel like family. All and all, I highly recommend this class. read more

Relic Tree Fitness is FANTASTIC!!! I could not have imagined gaining so much strength and confidence so quickly. Jonathan is upbeat, encouraging, and considerate every step of the way. Sonya is warm, enthusiastic, and welcoming. What a treat to be able to roll out of bed and walk to an early morning class where I can push against my own limits and achieve unimagined goals!!! YAHOO!!! I am grateful to be a part of the community they are building! JOIN US!!! read more

This place is GREAT. I actually look forward to exercising with my group in the morning, because they're also fun to be with. Jonathan makes sure you can challenge yourself to the level and age you're at and I really like the 8week cycle with each day of the week having different exercises. So far I've lost 20lbs and am in much better shape for it. read more