Joined the Pac West Bootcamp last fall/winter. Great times and incredible workout. We met twice a week in the evenings. We ran, crunched, squatted, stepped-up, lunged, and pushed-up our way to total body fitness. I've noticed boot camps popping up all over the city and I've only tried this one, but I have to say - it's run by a great group of dedicated atheletes and is tons of fun. You'll be sore and you'll love it. read more

Wow. I'm sincerely impressed. I've been meaning to sign up for Boot Camp for quite some time now considering that I always seem to receive their email newsletters that tote the benefits of the program and its supremely reasonable price. FINALLY my schedule accommodates me to attend the Downtown Boot Camp sessions on Monday and Wednesday nights - and I am so loving it!! Admittedly, I was a little nervous about the exercises that I was anticipating them to throw at us, but frankly, I am loving the challenge that it's presenting me with as well as the burn of the muscles that I don't frequently use when I go running or when I practice yoga. The instructors are awesome and positive and friendly and motivating, and I couldn't be more thrilled that I'm an active participant - and that I can keep up!! Talk about a social and exciting way to work out!! I can't wait for the rest of the season and I'm genuinely looking forward to seeing how my body responds to the weekly challenges. I've been living in SF now for close to three years and I'm finding a new found appreciation for this glorious city we live in, thanks to Boot Camp! read more

This is a really fun, social way to enjoy a great workout twice a week outside rain or shine! It's run by athletes who are really loving what they do & it shows. The downtown bootcamp does the Coit Towers steps on nice days & a lot of work around the Embarcadero/Justin Herman Plaza area. We use resistance bands as our only equipment but get such a great workout. A typical session starts with a warm-up, stretches & lots of core strengthening including push-ups, sit-ups and cardio followed by more stretching at the end. I totally recommend Pac West Bootcamp for anyone who wants to get in shape or stay in shape & have fun doing it. The bootcamps are seasonal so you can always take a season off & come back when it works with your schedule. They are all over the city at various times/days. Return participants get a discount on the fee. read more

I signed up for Olivia's downtown evening session last fall when I hit a wall with my gym routines. I desperately needed a change from the hamster wheel workouts that the gym had become. Exercising outdoors against the evening San Francisco skyline energized me and made the bi-weekly sessions speed by. It's a fantastic feeling doing situps on the ground and staring up at highrises capped by a starry sky. The variety of exercises, moderate class size (class didn't top 15 people), and personalized form instruction make this a solid program. I never got bored and finished each night inspired by the physical challenges I had accomplished. It's appropriate for any level of fitness. The program gets progressively more challenging throughout the weeks. Schedule is somewhat flexible as you get 4 makeup sessions to attend other instructors' sessions if you miss your program. read more

If you are interested in upping your game as a triathlete, PacWest is a great option. I didn't do much comparison shopping with other SF tri clubs, but the coaches kicked my butt and got me 110% prepared for my first triathlon. It's incredibly motivating (and often humbling) to work out alongside such great athletes. If you're new to triathlon and want an intense introduction, you can't go wrong. A final thought regarding results: I ran my fastest 10K ever in my first triathlon (the very hilly Wildflower course). I've run at least 2 dozen 10Ks over the last decade, so that is saying something for the preparation and training that they provide. Thx Coach Keith and Coach Jay! read more

After moving back to San Francisco...back into my parents house....settling into a full time 9-5...discovering the wonders of being a foodie in SF...and having home cooked food again (No more ramen and vienna sausage college diet! Woot Woot!), I found myself packin' on the pounds. I had to find a workout fast! What better way is there to get your butt kicked and toned, than to have some one yell in your face to finish those push ups, work the abs, and climb those stairs. It was time to send this butt to BOOTCAMP. Pac West's Bootcamp is far from being a military workout, but they will still kick your butt. Although no one is in your yelling in your face, the power of group exercise gets you through each workout. Plus, if you're in the downtown group - Jay, Jack, & Missy are there to motivate you and kick your butt each step of the way. Beware of the Coit Tower workout. You will hurt and will want to hurt whoever told you to join bootcamp. I loved it! I always looked forward to the Coit Tower workout. And yes, I did lose some weight during the 8 weeks. Of course, with regular cardio and eating right. And yes, "Downtown Rocks, Baby!" Recommendations: Downtown Group Summer Session (to avoid the rain) read more

Verdict: Fantastic Way to Stay in Shape! I hate the gym. Hate it! I get so bored, and have trouble motivating myself to go. Pac West has been a great fitness solution for me! A coworker kept raving about it, so I finally signed up for an 8 week session January 2007. A year later, I still really like it! The details: 8 week sessions, meeting 2 x per week in various parts of the city. The Presidio group is fantastic, and the coaches exceptional. Yes, it's tough getting up at 5:30am to work out at 6am, but it's totally worth it! Every day is something new, something different, and I find I push myself harder with this group than I do on my own. Price is very reasonable, especially for the results you get! You gotta try it! read more

This is the best outdoor workout program and really beats having to compete for a treadmill at 6pm on weekday at 24 hour fitness. You pay in advance so it puts pressure on you to go. I joined the Golden Gate park group this past summer and was very satisfied. It kicked my ass every single Monday and Wednesday. For example: one evening we ran up hill on Willard St for 3 blocks, 4 times.. stopping for squats at each block. It was a challenge but definitely doable for most fitness levels. read more

I've been PacWest Bootcamping for the past year and a half in the downtown program. It started off strong, and then it got a bit so-so with classes that were getting too big and unruly. Now we're again back to basics and I'm falling in love all over again. A class with 20-some people, the personalized attention to form, new exercises that leave me feeling it just a bit the next day. Just do it. read more

PacWest Bootcamp Checklist Reliable alarm clock? Check Long pants, gloves and waterproof jacket? Check Dedicated, knowledgeable, fit instructor? Check Sunrises to die for? Check Abs to die for? If I keep this up, they will be. Kim, our southern Marin instructor provides an incredible 75-minute workout. Be prepared, not a minute is wasted. She takes you through the paces coaxing (prying) the most out of you in each session. If you are looking to take your fitness to the next level or just can't bear the thought of sleeping in, this class is for you. read more

"Downtown Rocks, Baby!" A friend convinced me to try this about a year ago and now I'm hooked! It's a great way to get in shape (read: not so much for those who are looking to loose a ton of weight) and do so outside. Coach Jay does an awesome job of switching up the work outs while keeping it "fun" and interesting. He pushes you more than you would yourself at the gym which is what I like. I was able to do MAYBE three full push ups before I started this class...now I can easily do about 2 sets of 30/40 (not the girl style either)! read more

I am on week 2 of the Tues\Thurs.Presidio workout group and am loving it. As a self proclaimed "fitness fanatic" who complains about never getting sore I gotta say I'm hurting today!! In a good way! This morning our workout was on Baker beach. Not only was it refreshing and beautiful Kim kept us moving! Run, squat, lift, resistance bands and just when I thought I couldn't take anymore we did 2 (yes 2) rounds of the Baker Beach stairs. Are you kidding me?? I do Lyon St. every Monday - the baker stairs KILLED me!!! I feel like I want to get down on all four and just crawl through my workday!! Its a kick ass workout. I am excited to say that I dread pulling up to the workout just a tad (because I know what's comin') but feel so amazing when I leave! Go Pacwest! (PS I did a drop in on Richards Presidio am class last season and he rocks as well!!) read more

Love PacWest boot camp!!! Seriously. It rocks. I've been doing boot camp for over two years now and I absolutely love it. I participate in the after-work Downtown program and couldn't ask for a more welcoming, fun, and beautiful environment to work out in - I never want the gym to be my primary work out spot again! To be doing jumping jacks near the Ferry Building while starring at the breathtaking SF skyline or to be doing lunges down the pier while looking at the stunning Bay Bridge is such an awesome feeling - it reminds me every single workout how lucky I am to live in this amazing city. Oh and minor detail...not only is it a beautiful place to workout but I get an intense, ass-kicking workout each and every session! My legs were sooo sore (the good kind of sore of course) for 3 days after last Wednesday's workout. Well done Coach Jay. :) read more

I signed up for boot camp after a year of generally being a sloth when I saw an ad for Pac West in a running magazine. I've been a distance runner my whole life, but after a year at a more demanding job and schedule, I found the 24 hour fitness membership was not cutting it and I needed some extra help. The day after my first class with Coach Jay, it hurt my arms to type. It was really just uphill (and up steps) from there. I've now done 4 seasons with Coach Jay, Jack, and occasionally Olivia- and can proudly say I now have muscles I did not know existed. For those of you that love the outdoor workout, with a diverse schedule, and a good group, this is the boot camp for you. I've now quit my gym and don't think I'll ever go back. read more

This athletic group is awesome! All of the trainers are really genuine and in it to help you improve. Richard, the founder, is an incredible person who walks the walk. You can find him out on the track coaching members and screaming, "Good Job!". If you haven't signed up yet, you really should. Its a great group of people and the feeling of accomplishment that comes after your first running event- priceless! read more

First off, I'm haven't been offered any damn socks to write this review. I've been doing the Boot Camp at Dolores Park for about 3 and 1/2 years now and I have to say that it's the best workout program I've done and a great base to start from in order to move on to other pursuits. Sure, you need to wake up at 5:30 AM to get there, but these days, that's practically the only part of my day where I can fit in exercise. Anyone can go to a gym and workout, but I'll take running up hills over running on a treadmill. The workouts themselves have great variety between arm/leg strength, abs and a few cardio workouts thrown in. Our coach is great as well. He makes sure that everybody gets a good workout, regardless of fitness level, and is always willing to help people out with their form any time. He actually does the exercises with you too. That may not seem like much, but I've seen some of the other bootcamps in the Dolores Park area (there are a LOT of them now)where the "coach" actually tells his crew to meet him three blocks away and then DRIVES there. If you're looking for a great Boot Camp, I recommend PacWest without hesitation. Just finished my first Half Marathon and it wouldn't have happened without Pac West. read more

How is it possible that I'm the first person to review Pacwest boot camp? I just finished my first 8 week session. It was so hard to wake up at 5:30, which is why I slacked at the end, but I definitely saw results. I lost the Pizza O tenner, and have been seen flashing the newly acquired pythons for the menfolk at the bars since week 3. I like the instructors and the different locations. The coolest is probably seeing the sun rise while running around near the GG bridge. The not coolest thing is running up and down the sand pile stairs, which nearly kills me every time. Overall, excellent program, and definitely worth the price. Lots of snotty, overpriced boot camps around SF, but this is not one of them. read more

I've been working out with PACwest off and on for about 4 years now. While the company has had some growing pains earlier on I think now they are really hitting their stride. The bootcamp programs are a great workout but for intensity and variety of excercises can be instructor dependant. The two co-owners are fantastic guys and practice what they preach. They now have expanded their training programs to include marathon teams, triathlon teams and drop in track/bike workouts throughout the week. read more

Please note this company gives you a pair of free socks to write a review - so be weary of what you read. I joined Boot Camp and found to be disappointing. Besides the fact there was over 40 people in my class and you could never hear the trainer I felt the work out was of poor quality. The trainer does the same work out over again every 2 weeks and it seemed like the workouts were made up 10 minutes prior to the class. The same leg, arm , and ab workouts - over and over again. I was really wanting to be pushed to the max and to have something to show for my $170 that I spent. Don't expect individual attention. read more

I didn't have a good experience with PacWest. I signed up for their marathon training program and then accidentally allowed myself to be auto-renewed the following year. What I got for money: No instruction, no advice on injury prevention, no free merchandise, rudeness, and exclusion. read more

I joined Pacwest a few weeks ago. I decided to join the running program since I'm training for my 3rd marathon. This time, I don't want to just finish-I want to finish well. My first day, one of the coaches named Richard ran with me to get a feel of my ability. He also explained how the program works and kept me motivated during the run. All the runners are super supportive and friendly. I love it. We even get weekly training schedules emailed to us. My fave is the track workout. I love the way it is organized and all inclusive. No matter what you're training for, I think Pacwest is the way to go. I'm so glad I joined. read more

Yea for PaWest. I am getting buff for my wedding at their boot camp. I totally dig Jay and Richard, the co-founders. They are really nice and they definitely know what they are doing. I also do the RunPac and TriPac and it has really done wonders for my stamina and my speed. The other people in the group are nice too. THe price for the boot camp and the other stuff I do is really reasonable so it makes it worth it. I don' feel like enough people know about it...so that makes it even better! read more

I will also preface this review with the fact that I am not getting a free pair of socks. I've been a member of PacWest for about 3 years so I figured it's about time I write a review. I first joined to train for the Oakland Marathon and had a great experience and felt well-prepared for my marathon. I've been running in the Bay Area for many years but it was nice to have mapped out long runs already figured out for me by PacWest. With that, I also learned a few new spots thanks to their training routes. Now I am an annual member and participate in the weekly track workouts lead by, Jay Ridgeway. The workouts are always a challenge and I love that despite the many people and fitness levels participating, everyone gets treated the same and Jay's enthusiasm keeps people going. The coaches are wonderful and it's awesome working out with the other participants. read more

I joined PacWest Boot Camp about three years ago before my wedding and when I was running about 2 miles every other day. This kicked my butt. And I loved every minute of it. Now, three years later, new post-baby belly, I'm headed back and I can hardly wait to get my butt kicked again (only one day a week for me this time). read more

I tell everyone I know about PacWest...and now I'm telling a bunch of people I don't know too! I just finished my first session (8 weeks) and loved it so much. Sara (Presidio T/Th 6am) is a fantastic instructor and I definitely saw results..I wouldn't get up at 5am if I didn't! Richard and Jay, owners, are also awesome if you get to meet them or take their classes-- you can really tell that they care about their business and getting you the results you want. There are a zillion bootcamps out there and most of them come and go, but you can tell by their passion and professionalism that PacWest isn't going anywhere. One of the things I love the most is that the whole thing is done outside, rain or shine. I love getting outside the gym and the best way to start your day is with a work out and fresh air. Let me tell you, I have paid A LOT more for a lot less...awesome deal! read more

I love Pac West, too! I first tried it out at the end of 2006 and i keep coming back. Here is why I love PacWest Bootcamp: * Its reasonably priced for a boot camp. * Its twice a week for 8 weeks - that's a much more reasonable schedule for those of us that would like to work this into a regular workout routine rather than crash dieting for a wedding. * All of the trainers have been completely professional and provide me with the perfect amount of motivation - enough to push me that next step, not enough to make me hate them. * You don't have to live in the Marina or the Richmond to have a bootcamp nearby. They have multiple of locations across SF - downtown, Delores park, and the usual GG Park and Presidio options. Everybody wins. * All of the sessions are for men and women, so my husband and I can do this together. * Its not just the sporty spice folks of SF, there's a little bit of everything so no matter who you are or what you look like, you will feel comfortable breaking a sweat at 6 am with these people. * They pay you to write positive reviews on yelp. (I kid, I kid! I really like it THIS much!) I'm not a morning person at all, and I can still get up for this, season after season. P.S. I never received any free socks to write this. read more

I have been attending the PacWest boot camps for a year... four seasons including the dreaded winter season and I have loved it. I attend the south beach / mission bay one, the trainer is awesome and the area is really fun to work out in... GREAT sunrises and we vary the route each time. OK its at 6am BUT it is 100% worth it. It's primarily strength training and we use a resistance band and the outside "terrain" for equipment I would never have tried it but my friend dragged me along to the first and I have been going ever since. It is also a very reasonable price for 2 sessions a week and 8 weeks a season try it for a session... you will have fun! read more

I joined Pacwest to do weekend rides, but have fallen into their track practice and bootcamp and really enjoy those workouts the most. I think the price of joining is well worth the coaching, assistance and motivation you get out of either bootcamp or general membership. Richard always brings such a positive attitude to track practice and Sarah is great coach for bootcamp. It's a solid experience all around. read more

11/11/08 - I just signed up for the boot camp and felt compelled to write a review. I will definitely return to update my post. In the meantime, working with Richard via email to signup has been a dream. He was quick to respond via email, made it ridiculously easy to get started & answered any questions. I'll be back with more! read more

I [heart] PacWest boot camp - Casey (our coach) participates, encourages, and keeps it positive and moving. Each day is different but continues to build in intensity, and now that we're in week 4 I'm feeling the benefits - I could actually do 60 rebounds without wanting to kill myself or anyone else. The people that PacWest attracts also seem to be terrific - the overall mood in the morning is incredibly friendly, welcoming, and...dare I say it...even a bit joyful at times. They greet newcomers and introduce themselves, and we feel like a team. Having experienced other boot camps, I'd have to say PacWest is the best of the best, and I'm hooked! read more

My now-husband and I have done their boot camps in the Presidio, and I've trained at their Kezar Thurs workouts. They are well organized, challenges me physically (think there is no way I can do another 400 meters but the whistle blows and I'm going again), and I've met some great people through their activities. Lots of 20's& 30s athletic/semi-athletic folks who are laid back and make working out fun. read more

Coach Jay is Da Man! An excellent athlete and role model for anyone looking to stay or get in shape. Met some great people, and feeling more energetic than ever, and it's all because of their no hassle, no frills workouts that delivers results. If you want to be consoled though... buy a dog. read more

Bootcamp is s blast - where else can I get someone to tell me to run up 750 stairs, or sprint hills, or do exploding lunges? Richard is the best and I look forward to returning after winter :) read more

Pac West training got me through my first half marathon confident and ready. That's exactly what I was looking for.

Consistently, 2 years and counting now, I've had GREAT times with pacwest. I'm a former collegiate track athlete, so I get to tap into my inner-ex-runner spirit when I hit the track on Tuesday nights with Coach Jay and a crew of about 10-20 fellow runners. The training regimen is as good as it gets---warm-up jog, 20 mins of dynamic drills, 30-45 mins of running intervals, a few laps of cool-down running, then a stretch. Jay is awesome about changing up the interval workout so it's never the same thing twice. He's also one of the best coaches I've ever worked with----including those I had at my Div. 1 alma mater. There's a really diverse team of running abilities, so no matter your pace, you'll find someone to inspire you and someone else to make you feel lightening fast! PS- I was NOT given anything free (not even bad ass socks) to write this review--- in response to one of the other Yelpers :) read more

Had a great time with the family at the Turkey Trout Race in Novato and it was nice to see so many families enjoying the morning with each other despite the cold weather. The race was fun but what a joke on how it was organized, for this being the 10th year of them have this race, it looked like it was the first event they had ever done. It started over 45 mins late, dont they know people have places to go on thanksgiving. The kids race ran right thru the registration line that was huge. There was only one table to register and even though we pre-registered they did not even have our names.Even the way the raced ended, you had no idea were to go, the water lady had a huge attitude, guess what there was a race and people are thirsty,had to jr high girls handing out bags who were more confused than anything, no snacks but popchips, really! What was my 25 dollars for. Very disappointed, there were so many things that were done wrong, from organization, no proper restrooms, no leadership, etc. I cant believe they even advertise that these guys do event management. I will look for a better organized event next year. Who ever was in charge of this event should be fired. read more

I love Pac West boot camp! This mantra definitely helps when the alarm goes off at 5:15 am on Wednesdays and Fridays. The best part about it--- it works! I have been a Pac West Boot camper for over a year and it really makes a difference. I have more stamina and strength and even lost a few pounds. My favorite part-- it is always different and the scenery is great. The trainers are innovative and encouraging, there is great rapport with fellow bootcampers and a good blend of cardio and core. And, of course, Southern Marin sunrises are always a great way to kick off the day. read more

Pacwest is Fantastic. I'm in my 5th week - and can;t say enough good things about the program. There is enough individual attention, but an overall team focus that ensures you are pushing yourself. Jessie G.'s review below seems consistent with her other reviews on Yelp, and I don't think is indicative of how the program is run. Pacwest keeps it fun, challenging, and you're out by 7:15 a.m. to go on and enjoy your day! Come try it, you'll love it. read more

This is my second season with PacWest bootcamp and I've really enjoyed it! I did the Mon/Wed Kezar 6:30PM session the first time around and then switched to the 6 AM Mon/Wed Marina session for the second season and have MUCH preferred the mornings. As difficult as it is to get out of bed that early on a Monday, the sunrise over the bay is worth it and so is the outdoor workout. Richard keeps the workouts varied and interesting and he's always encouraging & motivating...even in the early AM! PacWest is really great about letting you make up missed sessions by letting you just jump into another session at whatever time works best for you and I've found that all the other instructors I've encountered are just as warm, welcoming and enthusiastic. Can't recommend boot camp highly enough! It's a great way to get out of the gym and get in shape! read more

Thank God for Pac West Athletic's Boot Camp! I can't tell how long I've been waiting for the moment I learned about strength training in the outdoors. As a devout outdoorsperson, I have long-avoided joining gyms thinking I could do it all in my beloved nature and save a few bucks while I was at it as a side benefit. I eventually realized that I cannot make gravity pull from over my head in order to do basic exercises such as the lat pulldown. I sucked it up and joined gyms, but now I don't have to! This class is a must for any REI-going, tree hugging, wilderness activity loving person, especially those who find themselves living in the urban regions of the Bay Area. read more