2020 January update:
Concord Fitness Boot Camp is STILL the best in the 'Bay if you are looking for an inclusive, welcoming team atmosphere. No frills and ALL results - like any aging athlete, I'm having to learn to respect my recovery process in a new way (Coach V: 'the body ALWAYS finds a way to recover!') - after an intense surgery (decades of wear and tear) I was SO EXCITED to find that the magic is still here.
Newcomers are welcomed like family, and the whole team steps in to help out (it is a fast paced environment) - What brings me back here over and over again is the quality coaching, the uplifting atmosphere, and the good-natured razzing that pushes me to overcome my fears.
As I get older, I train smarter and with more focused intent - I love that this is a group I can grow with.
2.5 year later update:
Training with CFBBC's dedicated and consistent group of 'everyday athletes' has taken my fitness to new heights, and this is no small feat - I've been a lifelong fitness devotee. I am in, at 37, the best shape of my life and continuing to explore new challenges thanks to having a 'team' and a Coach that believes in me.
CFBBC is home to such a varied group of people, but what we all have in common is that we are looking to be challenged, held accountable, and cared for. Some of us are former team sports players who feel like we've come 'home' to the team environment. Some of us are newly awakened athletes who are working out for the first time, and discovering our inner fire. Some of us are just busy parents/students/professionals who are looking to efficiently get in (40 mins all of the essential components of fitness (cardio/strength/flexibility/mobility/agility) so we can navigate our lives feeling fit and competent.
What I've noticed over the years is that anyone, at any fitness level, can become folded in to this warm group- the baseline requirement is a willingness to show up consistently and give it a personal 'best effort.' Don't show up for a few days? People notice, and ask how you are. In person, and in group Facebook forums, Virgil is constantly offering us insight, education and encouragement.
Virgil and the trainers (and the group as a whole) are always happy to offer modifications and hints to newbies - the encouragement I've seen people offer each other is what most draws me to the place, and this vibe is fostered by the care and attention Virgil shows. The happy result? We stick with it, stick together, and wind up extraordinarily fit, while having fun sweating with our friends.
Previous review:
I have been to group trainings in gyms across the country for years. I've taught classes. I've loved classes, hated classes, and walked out of classes. I have paid for trainers, been certified as a trainer, and trained trainers. Am I an expert? Maybe more than most, less than some. But I can tell you this - I know what I'm talking about when I tell you that, bar none, CFBBC is the best small group training you will get for your money in the SF Bay Area.
Virgil designs biomechanically sound, engaging, challenging programs. He and his qualified trainers carry out classes that everyone, from beginners to the most hard core fit freaks, can get a great workout in.
The workout variety is on-point, the equipment is well maintained, and the facility is clean. Music is motivating and played at just the right volume - not overwhelming.
The underlying friendliness and atmosphere of team spirit the trainers foster is completely amazing and a great bonus. read more