Live Oak has changed my life, from a 79 yr old woman weakling to an 81 yr old woman who actually has some strength, who after a year of working out there hurtled backwards on concrete when trying to open the garage door and barely received a bruise. Who knew, not I, that bones strengthen as well as muscles? I love the peaceful vibe there, the totally non-corny/non-dopey messages for us to read, the overall sense of spaciousness. And I love my trainer, Jeff, so amusing and interesting to talk to when I can muster enough breath to talk as I huff and puff away at the machines Trust me: It's never too late to become stronger. I think I'm willing to relinquish my position of the oldest client there. read more

High intensity strength training is the way to go!! This gym has a spa vibe- clean air, calm, clean machines and a tailored experience so you are in and out in 25 minutes. Plus the high intensity strength training is the most efficient and effective work out I've ever done. It's the only thing where I have maintained consistency - and that's because it's only 25 minutes a week and a great (though painful - no pain, no gain) experience. I've trained with Owen and Chuck, both of whom are just excellent at what they do. I've gone from being really weak/ out of shape to having a much more balanced body with strength in core areas. They know how to motivate and meet you at whatever level you are. I'm feeling really optimistic about long term sustainable physical strength training as a result of this experience. read more

Live Oak Strength is fully comprehensive, Their strength training knowledge is so extensive! Lucy & Owen are some of the sweetest people around. They take each exercise and really break it down. If you want to get stronger, but need to know how, Call Live Oak Strength, like seriously, right now! In only 20 minutes a week, you could become a beast Or maybe you'd prefer that your weight would decrease. They'll help you reach your physical goals, no matter the case. What are you waiting for? You have a new training plan to embrace! read more

I have been training here since 2019. I come here every week for my strength training even including holidays and throughout the pandemic. With no more than 4-5 people in the entire space at the same time, I feel very safe working out here. I always have 1:1 session with my trainer Chuck, who consistently pushes me every session. My strength, immunity and mental health have greatly improved. Live Oak Strength also offers adaptive resistance exercise ARX training that you could do with high-tech machines by yourself. It can be a great stand-alone exercise or an add-on to your personal strength training weekly. I am currently doing one personal training session and another ARX exercise every week. It is tiring but so productive and fun. read more

"Too good to be true" is the only way I can describe Live Oak Strength's philosophy on exercise. It is hard to believe that a 25 minute workout 2 times a week will move the needle on health but it does. Big time! I've been working with Owen, Lucy and their team for over 2 years now and I am the healthiest I have ever been. Most importantly, I have experienced a significant decline in injuries because of my training with Live Oak. I am able to do my work (which requires a lot of heavy lifting) and even beat my marathon-running wife in a 5K without any injury issues. If you are busy but want to be healthy, there really is no better option. Working with Live Oak Strength is the most important decision I have made over the last few years. Thank you to the fabulous team at Live Oak! read more

I never thought I'd want to do strength training, but the team at Live Oak Strength motivate me to focus and work hard. At the same time, they make me--a 51-ry-old introverted gay man with body image issues who doesn't gravitate toward exercise--feel comfortable. They are welcoming, clear communicators who already make me feel like I belong there. And who knew that my reaction at the end of high intensity exercise would be laughter? Every set is a good pain. Every set is a great joy. Benefit from the place Owen and his team create. Join now. read more

Live Oak came highly recommended to me by a few friends who train with them, but I was skeptical. How could 20-30 minute workouts offer any lasting benefit? I was happy to be proven wrong by Owen and Lucy. They are dynamic, personable, highly-knowledgeable trainers who know their stuff. I was extremely happy with the results of working with them over a number of months, and am sold on the approach. It really works. I worked out primarily with Owen, who is all you could ask for in a trainer--approachable, motivating, able to offer powerful instruction, and full of useful information. I've ended up recommending Live Oak to a number of friends and happy to voice for them on here--they're amazing people who really can change your life. read more

Training with Lucy has made me stronger and has prevented the debilitating back injuries that have plagued me for the last decade. I love the personalized attention and quiet space, it allows me to make the most of my time at the gym. At Live Oak, I'm never: - distracted by someone else's loud music, grunting or weight dropping - cleaning up someone else's pool of sweat before using the weights - waiting for a machine - searching for parking!!! Plenty of easy, free parking. Highly recommend Lucy and Owen, or any of their staff. read more

If you are looking for an evidence-based approach to fitness resulting in real, measurable changes, look no further! Not only does Live Oak's workout produce results, they do so in ONLY 20 MINUTES once or twice a week. Their instruction is to rest your muscles otherwise and only engage in activity that you enjoy as being pain free and able to move and function well in your life. All this and the best results I've ever seen (with myself and others) with much harder, longer workouts. Owen Dockham and staff are well-informed and professional. Trainers take the time and thought to help you define your fitness goals and then work safely and efficiently to help you move towards them. Owen takes detailed notes during your private training sessions and attends to the most minute detail of your alignment to make sure your workout is not only safe, but offering you the best, body-changing results. Personally, working out with Owen reduced my level of body pain significantly. In just a couple of months, I progressed from being in quite a bit of muscle and joint pain just from walking around the block, to gardening for three hours on the weekend, taking my dogs for two walks a day, swimming, and doing yoga I enjoy. (Not that any of this extra exercise is needed with this workout; I just became so energized and pain-free, that engaging in these activities makes me happy and enjoy life more!) I also sleep soundly and my energy level feels balanced (instead of a burst and then crash) throughout the day. In fact, I feel better, more energetic and stronger in my body now, in my 40's, than I did years ago in younger decades. Professionally, as a Health Psychologist, I have referred some of my patients and colleagues to Live Oak. I take great care with my clients and those close to me, so making repeated referrals to Live Oak is a testament to how much I trust and respect their work. Unequivocally, the feedback I have received is that trainers are respectful, caring, encouraging, effective, and people see the results they want - more freedom to feel good in their bodies. (And did I mention: no "meathead" or "gym rat" mentality here. The vibe is down-to-earth, and good, fun living.) I cannot recommend Owen and his staff at Live Oak enough! read more

It does not get any better than Lucy & Owen for trainers. I've been working out for years since I was a teenager. This resistance training (HIT) while not fun, is great for results. I can't believe how it relieved my neck & back pain. Plus I am not only stronger but "cut ". And the best part is it's only 20 minutes long. Do it. You will not be disappointed. read more

I am loving this type of training. Short, high intensity strength work has made me stronger in a very short period of time. I am amazing myself every time I go in, I am at a new level. My trainer Austin, is super positive and knowledgeable, and knows just how much to push me. A great health hack - gaining muscular strength without spending hours a day. I highly recommend it! read more

Lucy = Wonder Woman I have been working out with Lucy for the last 6 months and can't imagine not having her as my trainer. My workouts are challenging and consistently changing with my individual strength levels and since accountability is huge she carry's a clipboard around with my last week's numbers so you cannot absolutely cheat her. Ever. She is one part drill sergeant and the other part your positive inner critic pulsing you to reach greater heights. She pushes you mentally and physically at each and every session so you can feel the workout and burn for a few days. She is attentive and meticulous about form making sure you do not experience any injury and encourages you to use a magical power plate at the latter end that aids the intense 25 min workout. Personally the benefits for me have been fabulous... I have noticed a huge increase in physical energy and strength. Apart from training with Lucy I also swim and hike and have felt my form and endurance improve significantly. I can go longer and have much better form so feel the workout's compliment my other extra circular really well. Over all, Live Oak Strength focuses on YOU and what is best for YOU. I would highly recommend to anyone! read more

I have been going to Live Oak for a few months now for the ARX workouts. I love how quick and efficient this work out is! Owen and the Live Oak staff are super welcoming and helpful. I have been telling all of our clients about how great it is! My husband is now coming with me and loves ARX as well. I highly recommend them! read more

I have been working out at Live Oak three-plus months. Wow! My body is slowly changing. My shoulders are resting back and I'm inhabiting my body in a much different way. That's to say, I'm slowly and surely gaining strength. I'm a woman in my 50s and I'm committed to being strong and flexible as I age. I love the High Intensity Training I've been doing with Sean. First of all, I have never before received this level of attention and support. Sean is a naturally caring and helpful person. He tracks my progress, vigilantly watches my form, and keeps me inspired. I look forward to my workouts with Sean at Live Oak--and that's not something I've ever said about going to a gym. There's an incredible level of satisfaction in knowing you're getting the most from your workouts. As others have said, the time investment is negligible and the results are amazing. I highly recommend Sean and Live Oak--it's the best training experience I've ever had. Just the best!!! read more

Owen and Lucy are wonderful to work with, and the efficiency and efficacy of the workouts can't be beat. Somehow they make the workouts enjoyable even as you're being pushed to do more than you thought possible! I was especially drawn to this form of strength training because of the evidence in how it increases bone density for women. And I loved seeing the progress in how I was getting stronger and stronger with each workout. As a professional with limited time, this is the best way to strength train with a very brief time commitment each week. read more

After about four months working with various team members at Live Oak, I noticed that I stopped making the grunting noises that one usually makes after age 45 when performing massively strenuous things like tying my shoes, or bending over to pick up a Kleenex. "Huuuufffff! Whrrrrrrr!" Like that. But after a few months, I was just cantilevering around like a 20 year-old gymnast in a hurry to get on with the day. "This is strange." I thought. "Unexpected!" And then, as if by magic, I noticed a few months later that I stopped holding on to bannisters when I dashed (Yes, really! Dashed!) up or down stairs at BART. No more wobbly joints. No more "I'm 60. I can take the escalator!" I started at Live Oak Strength a little over a year ago, before I turned 60. I just wanted to get some strength back at first. The results have been pleasantly unexpected! The big surprise came last month when I got my annual lab results back. My cholesterol was jaw-droppingly low. Also, my A1c had gone from 7.1 (just barely controlled diabetes) to 6.4, the upper limit of pre-diabetes. "Most people don't do this," my doctor said. That is how he says "Wow!" It's his way. The whole time I have been at Live Oak, the staff has been really supportive, amiable, and just plain nice to work with. I've worked out in gyms and with trainers before, but I have never felt as satisfied as I do at Live Oak. I definitely recommend it to anyone who can fit it into their week! read more

I've been going to Live Oak for just over a year, and I feel so fortunate to have found this place! I workout with Lucy once a week. She's an incredible trainer! She's skilled, really sweet, and easy to talk to. My main areas of focus were to improve my posture, reduce back pain, and increase overall strength. I've noticed major improvements in these areas, along with increased energy, and even went down two jean sizes. I should note that I haven't changed my eating habits, or supplemented with other routines. The workouts feel safe, yet challenging, the space is beautiful, always clean, and I love the semi-private atmosphere, which means I'm usually the only one training. Lucy and Owen are both fantastic! I feel like they're offering something really unique. Like some of the others, I too was a bit skeptical at first, as it seemed all too good to be true, but my results have been substantial. I can honestly say that I'm in the best shape of my life! read more

I have been working out with Owen at Live Oak Strength and Nutrition consistently for eight months. When I first met Owen and experienced his work I was hooked. I knew that he had something completely different than the current workout models. I knew that his work would produce what was missing in my life. Yes, I am way stronger and people have told me I look amazing.( I have even had people ask me what am I doing because of how good I look and start working with Own because of my new physique.) That is not why I work out with Owen. I knew his workout would also help me in my private life. His workout has allowed me to make breakthroughs in life that I have been stuck for six years. His workout makes me face any challenge I have and know I can move through it. Which I am. His workout is so effective that I have my teenage daughter going and am watching her move from a difficult teenage girl to a powerful young woman. If you want to know more about Owen and his work out call me at 510-919-2254. read more

Lucy is warm, professional and passionate about training and getting strong. She's approachable and will help you get on the right track to reach your goals! read more

Most efficient and effective way to get your body working at its' optimal level. I played D-1 lax at Cal and know that this type of training is perfect for any student athlete. I also think this is an excellent option for super busy individuals that can only spare 30 mins for a workout. Lastly if you are someone that has never lifted weights and are dealing with joint pain due to the aging process, get yourself to see Owen and your life will change for the better! You don't have to do much to feel the results! I highly recommend as a nurse, health advocate/warrior and life coach. read more

Live Oak in amazing. It sounded a little too good to be true, strength training in only 20 minutes a week? Yet, there's no doubt, it's giving me terrific results. My body is looking and feeling so much better and stronger. I have 36 stairs to the front door of my home and every time I ascend them I can feel Live Oak at work in my legs, quads and core. I recently did 12 hours straight of back breaking yard work and my strength and stamina was incredible and I didn't feel wrecked the next day. As a transgender client, I get nothing but awesome support and love from the staff at Live Oak. Working with Lucy is such a joy, she's a total sweetheart and hard-case at the same time! read more

Owen is a super coach, and his method is safe, effective and research-based. There's so much misinformation in the health and fitness world. Owen cuts through it and makes sure you're getting exactly what you need and nothing more (or less). I love the workouts and can feel my body responding to them immediately. Owen's a patient, thoughtful and passionate trainer. Give yourself the gift of this training. read more

I highly recommend Owen and his team; the profound benefits of the super slow, high intensity strength training has opened up a new level of fitness for me. I used to believe I had reached my peak ability years ago; through his workouts I have rediscovered the ability to dig deep and increase both my mental and physical stamina. Owen is an amazing trainer; relentless, encouraging and inspirational! read more

Owen and his crew do a great job. I found Owen when looking for a Body by Science trainer and he has been a wonderful guide during that journey. They have a very nurturing coaching style and have really helped me achieve my fitness goals. Owen also trains my 14 year old son in a healthy and supporting environment. read more

Not only is Owen a wonderful trainer/coach, but he gets results. His style is very supportive, but also very focused on the objectives. I was very skeptical about the whole "working out 20 minutes once a week" process, but the results are undeniable. My numbers are steadily going up and, more importantly, most of my "aches" are a thing of the past. I feel fantastic and would not ever go back to the conventional workouts I did before. I still enjoy biking and other exercise as I feel like it, so I get the best of both worlds. In addition, my spouse and my mother both are now training with Owen and their results mirror mine. read more

I will admit when my friend said she was training for 25 min a week with Lucy and Owen and getting great results, I did not believe her. So I waited a year before I tried them. Don't wait. I've been training with Lucy now for just over six months and the development of strength and improvement on overall health markers has been significant. I've lost weight and increased muscle mass without stress or injury to the joints. My chronic rotator cuff muscular pain is gone and low back/S.I. joint instability has strengthened. In the past I've worked with other trainers, spending 5 or 6 days a week in the gym, an hour or longer each time, to attain not even as good muscle def & tone, only with injury or chronic aches and pain as a side effect of all that training. Instead, this high intensity, slow rep training with Lucy and Owen is based on current science, gets the job done efficiently, and is an amazing gift to those of us with busy lives. Live Oak also has an A.I. bike for an intense cardio/interval training challenge. This takes about 15 min three times a week for results. Lucy and Owen are delightful people who have created this little oasis of health and positivity. Lucy is skillful, compassionate and a joy to work with while pushing you exactly to your very last ounce of possibility with every set. read more

So, someone tells you that they can give you the equivalent of a whole weeks worth of full body strength training workouts in one single 20 minute appointment, and you go "yeah right, nice gimmick buddy" and roll your eyes. Well, if it had been anyone but Owen Dockam I would've reacted that exact same way. But, I have known Owen for quite sometime and I have been in fitness programs via Power Plates at my local chiropractor in the past ran by Owen and I know him to be a very knowledgable and passionate advocate for fitness and nutrition. So, when Owen came to me and told me the above, I knew I had to at least try it. I am on my 4th week and I am astonished at the progress I have already made. I am stronger, I can see definition forming in my muscles that was not there before I began this super effective strength training program and I am even having an easier time managing issues relating to chronic pain and inflammation. This program is UNBELIEVABLE! Super effective! I feel as though in 4 weeks (that is 4 sessions at 20 minutes each) that I have shown more progress than if I had been using traditional weight lifting programs 3 times a week (about an hour each) for about 3 months! All that progress in one month!! No joke! Owen is very passionate about his work and his quest for knowledge is evident as he talks about the things he is constantly learning in casual conversation. I am super excited that he is announcing his 2nd location in the East Bay as I live in the East Bay and the commute to the city weekly is kind of annoying but it is nothing compared to the time I'd be spending in traditional weight lifting programs to see this much progress! I am stoked to know Owen and to have access to this program. read more

Lucy is an incredible trainer. I feel safe physically and mentally when I work with her. She is knowledgeable and does a great job of designing a training experience that supports your needs. Highly recommend! read more

Fantastic. Makes me feel like a cyborg getting his batteries charged for the week. Owen is a thoughtful, professional, and friendly coach, and my performance numbers just keep going up. I'm not sure how this could be improved. read more

I've been training with Owen under the ZeroForce High Intensity Training protocol for nearly 3 months now. For anyone who values their time and wants a knowledgeable and friendly trainer that can get you on the path to feeling better and stronger, I strongly recommend Owen. He puts everything into our sessions, explains why we do things the way we do, and most importantly his program is working to push me safely and generating measurable results. He is always punctual, supportive and prepared. His unique way of training is incredibly intense, effective, and SHORT - only one 25 minute session a week. He also keeps meticulous details of my progress and limitations, which I appreciate as I have been able to work around pre-existing injuries in an effective and safe manner. The precise methods used to train you to failure require a good coach like Owen to keep you mindful of many aspects of the methods but thru these methods you are able to generate failure more efficiently than with conventional volume training. You will put forth maximal effort but in controlled way that can create an adaptive response in less gym time. Working out with Owen is a rewarding and high yielding way to train, especially if you are busy and think you don't have the time to make a positive change. You do have the time and Owen's flexibilty and knowledge will help you on your way to the changes you have been putting off. read more