Fitness & Gyms in Oakland, CA

“I have been to many gyms in my life and have had 3 other personal trainers, and 9Round with Dave and Ovi is hands-down the best I have ever been to! I usually have a hard time motivating myself to go to the gym but I look forward to my 9Round workouts every week. When you enter, everyone greets you warmly. While you work out, trainers and other gym-goers cheer you on and motivate you. When you leave, you're congratulated on a great workout and walk out of the door with a smile on your face. It truly is a wonderful experience from start to finish. Be ready to work, though! 9Round provides a high intensity, full body workout. They also offer body mapping and consultation, which has helped me orient my workout and weight loss goals. Dave also provides me with tons of nutrition tips and challenges that have made a huge difference for me! I truly cannot say enough good things about this gym, so sign up already!”

“If you are one of the many of us, trying to get back into shape after Covid, Truve Fit should be your first stop. A key factor of whether you will stick with an exercise program is the having a frictionless environment.Truve has validated parking at the Hive so you do not have to be driving around in circles trying to figure out where you can park safely and get into the class on time. When you walk in through the front doors, the vibe is very chill so you do not feel anxious walking into class. Most importantly, the other people working in the gym are extremely supportive and will become your community quickly. Having all these things in place makes a fitness routine so much easier to establish. There are even free community classes if that's how you prefer to give this place a try.The instructors are excellent. Classes are capped at 10 for general fitness classes, and three for Pilates. As a result, their instructors can give you abundant corrections and attention so you avoid injuries and develop great form. If you are worried that you don't know how to use a Pilates Reformer, you can hire a private trainer for three classes to learn the ropes like I did.This is the premier gym in Oakland for rehabilitation from injuries. I am a 7 year cancer survivor who has had numerous surgeries. Each time, I've had to fight back to regain my health, strength and flexibility. My last surgery was major, set me back the farthest, and happened during the height of the pandemic; recovery felt close to impossible until I walked through these doors.Not only have I converted fat into muscle, lost weight, gotten so much stronger and gained so much range of motion over 5 months, but I can keep trying new things like TRX Bootcamp that turned out to be fun. Truve's got a wide range of things you can try to keep from being bored.Also, you can go buy fresh baked bread and pastries at Firebrand Artisan Bakery next store or empanadas at Javi's Empanadas caddy corner after you finish your workout. Truve's location is fabulous.”

“I wanted to support a local black owned business in Oakland -- and this gym was the best choice EVER! Brother Gary has so much knowledge about bodybuilding and the prices for his training are phenomenal!”

“I’ve always struggled to make the best use of a gym membership and stay motivated… given that, I can confidently say this is the best gym I’ve ever signed up for. Classes are small and there’s a friendly and communal feel with people who want to see both themselves and others grow and succeed. I’m definitely at a beginner level when it comes to this kind of training but it hasn’t felt like an impediment. Fabien is a phenomenal and kind instructor, he gives solid individual guidance (classes are small enough for that) as well as encouragement and correction when I’m struggling with form, and he can clearly identify which parts of my body need extra strengthening. He checks in on me in between classes giving tips for at home exercises, stretches and nutrition as he sees health holistically in terms of body, mind and spirit. If you’re looking for a personal trainer he does that too and no doubt he’s a great one. Overall Ownitrx is just a really encouraging atmosphere for getting healthy and I’m so glad I joined. I feel great after every class. If you’re on the fence, don’t wait, or at least come do some trial classes and see what I mean!”

“Love this gym! Sachiko and Jenny are great trainers.Sachiko’s past and present experiences have given her the amazing ability to personalize her training sessions to meet her clients needs. From senior citizens (me) with scoliosis to the young athletes. She is well organized and fun to work with. I credit my improved physical abilities to Sachiko and RGym. The Gym is kept very clean, the equipment is well serviced, there is ADA access and the ENTIRE staff is just great!”

“This place is EVERYTHING. I started coming to Body Mechanix in Feb 2022 with the intention of shedding a few lbs before my wedding in August and became addicted. My goals have changed -- instead of just looking good, I go to BM to feel good, to challenge my mind and body and to build community. I am genuinely happier and more fulfilled since becoming a member.Body Mechanix offers group classes every morning and a 6pm and 7pm class in the evenings. You can also sign up for open gym during the day. The classes vary between trainers and conditioning and strength focuses but ALWAYS leave you feeling satisfied and challenged. The trainers provide variations and encourage you to challenge yourself. When I first started coming to Body Mechanix I had never lifted a bar bell, I now know the safe mechanics of lifting and performing other exercises.Body Mechanix is all about community, the trainers and the BM team plans events, outings, parties, challenges, and celebrations for the members. The trainers care about the members and their clients and the memebers are all so friendly! It is so refreshing to be part of such a genuine community.Special S/O to the trainers current and past trainers -Terrell, Angelo, Nico, Melvin, Remy, Andy, Miguel, Jorge, Joseph. You guys are the best!”

“I started seeing Jay for sports massages after sustaining some gym injuries that left me with chronic pain. He is excellent at what he does and I like that his approach addressed the full body. He is also very friendly and makes you feel comfortable and at ease. Whether you're an active athlete or just dealing with tense muscles, you can benefit from having bodywork done by Jay!”

“I’ve been a member for two years. While I may not look a certain way, I’m definitely stronger than I was two years ago. Compared to my other fitness experiences, the gym has helped me to judge myself less and celebrate myself showing up. We have members of all fitness levels, and everyone is super encouraging to one another. Our coach approach is personalized and I think the diversity of our members make me stick around. Definitely recommend others to give this gym a try and surprise ourselves along our own wellness journey!”

“The machines all work, the energy from staff is great and they are courteous, even the security guards…and women’s restroom and locker is always clean and smelling good. The TVs are always working. The other gym patrons are all nice, we all vibe well and the music is great too!”

“After injuring my shoulder shoveling snow while in the mountains during snowpocalyose last winter, I knew it was time to get my body back in shape. Enter, Bliss Fitness and Health! From the first Rebel Recess class that I took, I have never felt more comfortable (except for the burpees!!) or more welcomed into a fitness space. The teachers are fantastic; the space is gorgeous; and most importantly after every class I feel euphoric, strong, and, dare I say, filled with bliss.”

“Bravo Zulu is important to my son. When he can't get a ride to his training sessions, he will walk -- 30 minutes, sometimes in the rain. He's excited to share what he's learned, and craves the discipline and challenge. At tournaments, I remind him that we're there to learn. While he loves collecting medals, win or lose, he's always ready to get right back to training at Bravo Zulu.”

“My favorite gym I've ever been to - equipment's always available, clean and good quality. It's strength training focused, sled, suspension trainers, multiple squat racks, the way a gym should be. The vibe is really friendly, everyone's local and a regular. Intimate, but you can still come in and do your thing with headphones on.”

“Super fun place to train and lift. The pump classes are high energy and the powerlifting classes are supportive and informative. Really community oriented and they even have a non profit to provide free coaching to Oakland youth. Coach Jason and Pela and all the other trainers are knowledgeable and awesome to work with. Definitely recommend!”

“Amazing gym, amazing people. Arnie's programming is phenomenal and the gym's level of fitness is elevated as a product of the program. EGA is perfect for all levels of fitness. Each coach takes their time with each individual member during a class to ensure proper technique and to answer any questions. The vibe is always fun and down to earth and I feel honored to be able to workout in such a great environment. Stop by anytime! Drop ins are always welcome and everyone is always very inviting.”

“Radically Fit is a safer, affirming and FUN place to engage fitness. The community cultivated by the owner and trainers is supportive and tight nit, without feeling clingy or competitive. There are so many offerings for every body type and level of athletic experience. It's obvious that a lot of effort has gone into company ethos and they're gracious enough to share their knowledge / perspectives with bite sized educational bits on their socials. If you're Black, non-white, queer, trans or disabled, I highly recommend you try this gym out and experience what non-toxic fitness can feel like. Thank you Rad fit -- love you all so much!”

“Mindy’s metabolic mayhem class is fantastic! It’s an excellent strength-based HIIT class that perfectly sets you up for your weekend workout to be over by early Saturday morning. Highly recommend!”

“Hands down the best experience I’ve had in a fitness space.I’ve been going to Resilient Strength for over three years, and it has all I could ever hope for in a gym, with an amazing community on top of that!When I went there for the first time, I was incredibly intimidated by gyms in general after a long stretch of inactivity. The owner, Holly, worked with me to build my strength and confidence and the results have been more than I ever hoped for. I’ve also seen other athletes get started in this gym and go on to compete in strength events, with the rest of the gym cheering them on.There’s all the equipment you could want (and they’re consistently upgrading the equipment and optimizing the use of the space), the community is supportive, inclusive, and fun, the group classes are challenging and rewarding, and the one-on-one training was legitimately life-changing. Holly and Brian have built and maintained an amazing space.If you’re looking for a gym you’ll genuinely get excited to go to, run by people who care about their athletes’ well-being first and foremost and can work with all fitness levels, this is the space for you.”

“This place is just the best. I've been in the group fitness classes for a month now and it's been so much fun. The people in the class have been going for YEARS and they are all so fun and energetic. Lisa (who runs the classes) is such a chill yet motivating coach. She's funny with jokes, plays good music and helps with your form too. The classes realllly get a tough workout in in the best way possible. Response times were a little lag at first, but the IG DM never fails and I got a response right away, email took just a few extra days! If I wasn't moving away, I would keep going here for years - and I am absolutely looking for a similar workout in my next city - can't say better things about this place!”

“Crufit has changed my life. Mark is a fantastic teacher and offers ongoing encouragement and support in his rowing classes. Rowing has transformed my approach to exercise. It is a full body workout and the cardio is intense. It's amazing the energy we all feel after the class. Class participants are warm and inviting. I really feel embraced by the warmth and caring at Crufit. Tom Carpenter, who teaches functional movement, is very well informed and his classes prepared me physically for the challenges of hiking in Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons without my orthopedic knee brace which I have worn for the last 4 years. I used my hiking poles but did fine without my knee brace. Tom's functional movement classes are deceptively easy but the benefits are tremendous. The staff at Crufit offer you individual support. I feel personally cared for at Crufit and I no longer wear my knee brace. Thank you Crufit!!!”

“My husband and I have loved coming here! We are total beginners and Jonathan has never once made us feel bad about it. The gym has a friendly, informal and uncompetitive vibe. The classes are challenging and the focus changes every day. Definitely recommend this gym to anyone!”

“I've been a client at Express Strength for a little over a year and I am happy to report that I have experienced a significant improvement in my strength and knee related issues. Alexis is kind, patient, knowledgeable and clear. I always get an excellent workout and look forward to my time at her studio. If your physical therapy work is not keeping pace with your progress, please consider Alexis & Jack's studio! I admit I was dubious about using machine weights and fewer workouts but their method really works. Consistency is key and they are methodical and meticulous in their planning, attention and training.”

“Pac Strength is THE CrossFit gym for Oakland. James, his crew of coaches and the programming are all top tier. If you're looking to get fit, this is the place. ??”

“I really like this location, staff is nice, a lot of different machines to choose from and not bad for the price. They also have extra spray bottles for guests to use to wipe down the machines.”

“I have been training with Mina and Liz at Intelligent Fitness for a little over a year and I absolutely love it! I came to Intelligent Fitness with some very specific health and fitness concerns and they created a program that is completely tailored to my needs. My strength and flexibility have increased significantly and I look forward to my workouts all week. The sessions are fun and engaging and I feel completely confident in their expertise. I can’t recommend this gym enough.”

“I have had the pleasure of getting to know several of the staff at BFF! I am currently working with Pam to help achieve some fitness goals that I have been struggling with and she immediately made an impact! I am also a massage therapist and regularly refer my clients here who are seeking to improve their fitness. The owners Mark and Mike have done an incredible job at curating a fantastic team! GO SEE THEM!”

“It's a community-oriented environment with equipment and old school vibes that you won't find at the corporate gyms. The gym is always clean, and I don't have to worry about people resting on equipment while on a phone. It's a gym for beginners and bodybuilders alike.”

“Training with Kenny has been worth every penny. I've been with him for 1.5 years, which has made a huge difference in how I feel. Before coming to Kenny at Body of Work, I was flabby, unmotivated, and not looking my best. Six months before a milestone birthday I started working out with Kenny 2xs a week. Thanks to Kenny, I've toned my arms, abs, and glutes, now, I feel so much better about my body and much healthier overall. Kenny does a good job keeping it interesting and tailored to you. And the biggest perk is that Kenny is delightful so the hour goes by quickly. He's just an all-around good guy who loves what he does and cares about his clients. Highly recommend.”

“When I do join a gym, I always consider Montclair Fitness my go to place. I have been a member many times over the past couple of decades, and I'm planning to get back there soon. It's a homey atmosphere with just what I need to do a good work out.”

“started with boot camp to get back into consistent schedule with workouts in the summer .... swim wear ready :) then personal training with Shon to prepare me for returning to weightlifting. As a women in my 50s, working with a trainer who is close in age and fit as hell has been inspiring. If you are looking for a place that is easy, this is not it. If you have a problem taking orders from a person of color, this is not your spot. If you want to challenge yourself and get fit, you will love it. Recommend know-it-alls to leave it at the door, because if you knew how to get fit you would not seek this platform. Happy training!”