I hate working out. I mean, I really hate working out. I hate being out-of-breath and would never…read moreadd "sweating through my clothes" to my list of ... well, I'd add it to my list of things that are uncomfortable, and bordering on embarrassing. I also don't really like team things. And I don't have much good to say about over-enthusiastic people and their over-the-top motivational slogans, trying to fool everyone into "getting excited" about something crappy. Like working out. That being said, I love Kaia F.I.T. Love it. I was super unsure at first, but after even just the orientation, I knew it was going to be awesome. And horrible, because I really do still hate working out, and you do a lot of that, there. But I knew it was different than any other place I'd been to, so I was hopeful. I was worried about being the oldest girl in there (41). I was worried about being the person in the worst shape. About being the only one not able to complete the exercises. I was worried about passing out or throwing up or peeing my pants (six kids). But it turns out, it doesn't matter if I'm the oldest, or if I'm in the worst shape of the bunch. It doesn't matter if I am the Rock Star of Kaia, or a sweaty, vomit-covered pile of flesh laying in her own urine (too far?) - the girls there are awesome. And the part about not liking being a part of a team? I take that back. Just this one time. The other girls are so encouraging. And never make me feel like an idiot. Everyone cheers each other on, and that really does get you through that last little bit, when you think you can't hold that plank for even one more second. At orientation, Megan (I'll get to her in a bit!) said, "Don't worry if you're sweating or if your shirt rides up and your belly is hanging out. Nobody here is even going to notice, because we're all just focused on doing our best." Or something like that. I don't know, but the part about not worrying if your belly hangs out? That part I remembered, because let's be real: It's a legitimate concern. But to know that you can show up with no make-up, with wild hair and in a dumb t-shirt AND you don't have to worry about your shirt riding up during Standing Mountain Climbers? Prime. The workout is amazing, as well. I've lost 16 pounds (down to 140) and can DO things. I can do things I couldn't do when I started. I am getting stronger and more agile. I have energy. I feel really proud of myself, and I don't say that often. Or, really, ever. Each day is different. It's broken down into small chunks, so it always seems manageable. It's brutal, I'm not going to lie. I've never sweat this much in my life. Every session leaves me spent, but feeling - and I'm really going to say this - revitalized. This isn't a "Show up sometimes and eventually, maybe you'll see a little results" routine. This is a, "Commit to showing up, workout until you think you may actually die (maybe that's just me) and get amazing results" routine. Oh, and girls only. I love that. Fridays are Yoga, Wednesday is a running class (never gone, too scared), Saturday is a walk/run that you can bring friends and family along to. The other days are a boot camp style workout that will kick your (getting-to-be nicely toned) butt. Megan Powers is the owner and coach and everyone loves her. You can't not love her. Remember my earlier reference about the awful over-the-top, over enthusiastic, let's make everyone feel uncomfortable with my sugar-coated, sing-song voice? That's not Megan. Megan is funny and easygoing. Easygoing, but super motivating. She knows how to get the best from everyone, without making anyone feel like a loser. She puts everyone at ease right away. Megan has encouraged me to re-examine what I believed to be my limitations. It takes a pretty unique person and place for me to be comfortable enough to even attempt something that could very easily end up being incredibly humiliating. But I felt comfortable enough to try hard things and it turns out I could do them, after all. She's really knowledgeable about fitness and nutrition. My husband is a fitness and nutrition superstar, and she tells me the same things he tells me, so I trust her. Plus, you can't argue with results. I'm getting smaller AND stronger. And while I can't say that I bounce out of bed each morning or that I arrive to class thrilled to be moments away from a hard, hard workout, I can tell you that I really do love (and hate) each day there. At the end, I always love it. In the middle, it's a love/hate thing. But if it was easy, this would all be a waste of time. The hour is going to pass one way or another - better to have it pass with a workout that will really, really count. Longest review I've ever written, but I couldn't leave any of it out!

Kaia F.I.T will change your life, no joke. Being an athlete all of my life, I had difficulty…read moreacclimating to life with a sedentary job and no real outlet for activity. I mean, I hate the gym, I really do. Years of playing soccer, track, swimming, has wired me to be outside when being active not indoors on a treadmill watching someone else play sports. At this point in my life I really needed a change and was having a hard time sleeping through the night when I happened upon a Living Social deal at 2 a.m. for Kaia and I decided then and there to give it a whirl. Wow! I was so intimidated, Kaia F.I.T. is based on muscle confusion, so every day it's different and 3 months later, it is still challenging and fun. I don't respond well to drill sergeant type tactics, and Meghan is far from it she's absolutely AWESOME! She's encouraging without being overbearing and inspiring without being pompous. I have lost 5 inches overall and continue to stay with Kaia in an effort to be strong, not necessarily skinny. Since I work in the healthcare field and am working on becoming a clinical health educator, it is imperative for me to set a good example for my patients. Kaia is helping me to change lives; Meghan is helping me to change lives. Kaia also incorporates nutrition into their boot camp and has three levels of nutrition to assist any to incorporate healthier food habits into their lives. I simply can't say enough good things about Kaia F.I.T. and what it has done for me. Come try it out you won't be sorry. Oh, and that insomnia thing? I'm sleeping through the night, every night, blissful, sweet sleep. Thank you Kaia F.I.T and Meghan for making me stronger every day!

I trained with Nutri Fit for over a year and a half and we made great progress until health issues…read moreslowed me down considerably. I lost 85 pounds. I felt and looked better than I ever have in my life. Sadly genetic heart issues have kept me from training but there's no better trainer anywhere around than Ritz. Thank you Ritz for the time and dedication you gave me and for the amazing transformation you made possible for me. Darren Hill, RN. D

Ritz is an awesome coach! I had been looking for a workout that could keep me motivated and someone…read morewho could teach me how to reach my goals. This was exactly what I needed. Ritz holds me accountable for my workouts and even nutrition. I can ask him questions about workouts and my diet and he always has a thorough explanation of why we do everything and what I need. And as my goals change, he changes my plan too. He is accommodating, honest, and realistic. I have gone from just wanting to feel better during my day to day, to wanting to look AND feel better for the rest of my life. I've never felt more motivated in my life. With Ritz's knowledge and support, I feel like I can actually reach my goals! On top of all that, he's just a really cool guy.

My favorite dance studio! LOVE the teachers, the community, and the super fun, student-driven…read moreshowcases. I always feel welcome, which isn't always the case at other studios in the north bay area. Bastet will continue to be hybrid and offer their class in person AND on zoom! If you're nervous about taking a class for for first time, Don't Be!! You're going to have a great time, go for it!

I am a BEGINNER, entry level. I took Stephanie's liquid motion floorwork class and everything about…read morethis experience was amazing! Stephanie is super friendly and MEGA talented. She goes slow, shows you different angles, breaks down the movements. She took the time to go around to everyone individually and break down how to improve. This was such a positive experience and not at all intimidating. Even the other people taking the class are friendly and supportive. If you're on the fence, GO!

Kathleen is amazing, she can help with so many things! I've going there for many years, so glad…read morethey are close by

A great gym experience! This place is clean and has all the up-to-date equipment you could ever…read moreneed. The Langermann's are nice folks...always a friendly greeting when you arrive.

Joined this gym & LOVE everything & everyone in there! I was looking to switch things up, I had…read moredone orange theory,etc but wanted to try something fun, switches it up, good music, good vibes, good people, all of that and more is here

Still a five-star gem, despite COVID restrictions shutting down all indoor gyms and fitness studios…read morein the greater Bay Area as of December 2020. Coach Latona (LT) continues to provide virtual sessions via Zoom and our private Facebook group. When weather permits, she puts on socially-distanced outdoor workouts to keep us motivated and excited. GIG has different challenges and activities to make things interesting, and no day or week is the same. Thank you, Coach LT for all your dedication and hard work you put in for your members!

AMAZING FUN WORKOUT!!! AWESOME CALORIE BURN! LOVE IT!…read more Jess / Jay is amazing so much energy great instructor love her family fully supports her. Love her great vibe that she brings! Even if you don't have a step she has them for rentals $3. Buy one from Amazon $30-50. Her prices are totally reasonable especially memberships. Beginner to Advance its COOL FUN AND BURNS CALORIES!!! Great music different choreography to challenge you but learn fun moves!!! You'll love it and your welcome cause you'll be hooked!!! Try it once I promise you and your friends will enjoy it! Outdoor at Laurel Park Tues n Cannon Park Thurs .. diff location Saturday. Does private sessions too!!! Follow her on FB or Instagram xtreme_hiphop_with_jay

Although I'm not a full time member, I highly recommend this fitness studio based on the Xtreme Hip…read moreHop step classes alone. Owner and trainer Jay Brown has built this space from scratch. She designed and executed a very professional and very inviting gym. The floors are cushioned to help absorb impact on one's joints during intense workouts. Club Cardio has a fully mirrored wall so one can check their form while exercising. Jay also teaches bootcamp-style classes, and other specialty clinics like mobility and stretching for recovery days. They also have various challenges to motivate members and drive healthy competition. Membership prices are very reasonable, and they offer punch card options for drop-ins like myself. If gas and toll weren't so darn expensive right now, I'd take many more classes than on Sunday mornings!

I had a chance to try a class last weekend and I had so much fun! I remember doing Jazzercise back…read morein the early 2000s in Sunnyvale, brings back memories! If you like jazz and dancing, you will like Jazzercise. Go check it out! The place is nice and clean! Very close to Costco. You can exercise here and go shop at Costco after. The instructors are fantastic! A very supportive community. You will feel right at home. Move any way you want without any judgement as there's no mirrors to see. . Go and have fun here!

The classes here are fun and a great workout. I was just hoping to get some movement going instead…read moreof sitting in front of my Zoom screen working all day. Now, I discovered I enjoy working out, something I am very surprised to hear myself say. The instructors are fantastic and everyone is so welcoming. That makes a big difference in feeling like this is a community you want to be part of!

This is where all those gorgeous Marin ladies get their youthful bodies! Fantastic cardio class…read moreand the best value for money exercise in Marin County (Where else can you get 4 classes a week for $45/month?!). Really great atmosphere where you get a challenging but safe full-body workout in an hour, led by the lovely teacher Joy. I'll admit, I saw the name Jazzercise and had visions of ladies in leg warmers and leotards, but halfway through my first class as I gasped for breath and wiped the sweat out my eyes, I realized there is nothing old-fashioned about it. It's a very challenging workout, set to current top forty hits - there's a different routine for each song. (You can do each one high or low impact, as you choose). Then you move on to specific routines for weights, legs, arms and butts, with plenty of stretching too. I was so thrilled to find this after several years spent trying various exercise classes, none of which stuck. I find Spin to be boring and not targeted enough for your abs or upper body, nor does it do anything for your brain or balance. The Bar Method and Daily Method are both challenging and target specific muscle groups, but won't do much to burn calories. Zumba is fun and burns calories but targets nothing and lacks variety. Jazzercise, on the other hand, hits everything in one hour in a series of rigorous but safe routines - and you will SWEAT! (For you Weightwatchers out there, you earn just 4 points for an hour of yoga or Bar Method but a full 10 points for Jazzercise... that is 600 calories in an hour, and way more fun than the treadmill... I have lost 12 lb in the year since I started doing this class, and feel like a dancer again). Best of all, there is no 'scene' here; it's not intimidating or exclusive at all. There are no mirrors and no posers. Nobody will be staring at you or calling out your name to correct you. T-shirt and sweats are fine. The class of 50 or so people includes those of all ages, shapes and sizes who just share a love of music, dance and exercise. You'll soon master the moves and be doing the grapevine and the single-single-double in no time...

My BFF and I were going to sign up for classes and emailed Joy bec we wanted to see if she was nice…read moreor not. Found out. She never replied to our friendly email. She could have just replied, great looking forward to seeing you at the next class. How long does that take? Guess she's 1 of those people who are just Too Important for niceties and only has the time to take our $ and deposit it in her account. Lots of competition and places to exercise. Guess Some people need to get a good look at themselves on the Inside. Being Nice is a good thing. WeThinksNot.

I recently took a couples class with Alicia on a Saturday afternoon, and it was such a great…read moreexperience. The setting felt really private and inviting, which made it easy to relax and actually enjoy the class together. The studio itself is super clean and thoughtfully set up. Even the bathroom stood out--it had little extras like tampons, headbands, deodorant, and other things you might need after a workout, which I really appreciated. The class was definitely challenging in the best way, and I know I'm going to feel the burn tomorrow. I'm already looking forward to coming back!

Finally we have Lagree-style pilates in Petaluma! One of the best parts about X'core is the…read morecommunity - the instructors know you and there are fun social events. It's a warm welcoming spot to go to every day at 6:00am, which is saying something :) I recently moved here and have been looking to continue Lagree workouts here, and previously we only had BodyRok which wasn't the same. My only wish is that more modifications would be offered to make it more challenging and to level up (eg. do this at the back, add/remove a spring). I usually know how to modify myself but sometimes I forget so it's a nice reminder of how to keep challenging yourself each time, so that the workouts stay fresh and tough!

UPDATE: Over 20…read moreyears in fitness, I've never stayed with a personal trainer longer than one year. 5yrs later, I am still here. I know I can't get his workouts anywhere else. No one has been able to whip me into shape like LP has and I've kept the weight off. There is no one else! There's a method to his madness and his workouts are methodically calculated for dialed in results. He shows up every day for us. No one has pushed me as hard as he has. And this is all for the greater good. If I go MIA, he checks in with me. He truly holds me accountable as any coach should. He's in a tier all on his own though. A tier of shear excellence. His results are amazing and are life changing. Everyone in his studio is an athlete. Thank you so much coach.

Somehow 8 months have gone by and I can say without any doubt that Team LP is AMAZING! I can't…read moreimagine going back to whatever I was calling "working out". Sure, I had a gym membership, actually many memberships and personal trainers but the inevitable would happen and I would make excuses for not going. No more!!! I've been going 5-6 days a week for eight months and have NEVER had the same workout twice! No joke. Everyone is welcoming, supportive and all around nice. I look forward to going everyday. It's not a regular gym where you show up whenever you want. You sign up online and show up ready for a great workout. It's challenging but 100% doable if your committed. After a few months I convinced my wife to try it out. She didn't think she would be up to it. Now, she too goes almost everyday. The only thing we wish to be different is that we would have stopped in years ago! I'm not in my 20's anymore but physically feel that great everyday! LP- you are truly the best, thank you!!