I've been training here for many years, and I can honestly say this is one of the best gyms in the…read moreBay Area. It's not just for fighters--it's an incredible place for hobbyists, beginners, and anyone looking to get in shape. At the same time, some of the Bay Area's top fighters train here. I was one of California's highest-ranked amateur MMA fighters, and today I'm one of the state's top professional fighters--even though I only compete once a year! Come check out Bay Area Fight Academy. Everyone is welcome!

I went in to check out the gym after the head coach told me I could come by anytime, and I was…read morealready pretty nervous since I'm new to MMA. Unfortunately, one of the staff members -- a heavier-set guy with glasses -- came across as rude and dismissive toward me, which made the experience uncomfortable. As a beginner, first impressions matter a lot, and instead of feeling welcomed I felt talked down to. The head coach himself seemed respectful, which is why I'm leaving this review honestly instead of just writing the whole gym off. I just think new people should be treated with more patience and respect, especially when they're stepping out of their comfort zone to try something new.

Are you a middle aged professional like me, with a desk job, craving for some intense, rewarding…read morephysical activity you haven't had in years? Well let me introduce you to jiu jitsu. The people at Alere, coaches and fellow trainees alike, are all very kind and supportive and willing to offer feedback to help you improve your movements (which, as a new white belt, is extremely necessary). I've been training at Alere for about two and a half months and have lost like 15 lbs and gotten much stronger. Come here and join an awesome community.

Jitsu Has Truly Transformed My Daughter's Confidence…read more Choosing Jitsu for my daughter was intentional. I wanted her to learn how to protect herself -- and if needed, to protect her little sister and her friends. I wanted her to grow up knowing she was strong, aware, and capable. What I didn't realize was how much more this journey would give her. When she first joined, she was shy and uncertain, but everything changed once she stepped onto the mat and into a community that believed in her. Having her best friend there made the experience even more special. They pushed each other, laughed through tough drills, and grew side by side in ways only true teammates can. Now it's been two years and counting, and she's still not sick of it -- not even close. If anything, she loves it more than when she started. That alone tells you they're doing something completely right. One of the biggest takeaways she's held onto is: "Never cry on the mat." And she takes it very literally -- but honestly, it's not a bad thing. For her, it means fight harder, stay focused, and don't give up. We get it... but let's be real, moms are absolutely allowed to cry on the sidelines. As a mom, it still scares me watching her train and compete -- that feeling never truly goes away. But her confidence has grown so strong that she's now the one asking me to sign her up for competitions. Seeing her walk onto the mat with purpose and pride is something I never imagined two years ago. I have to give so much credit to Jorge, Coach Chris, and Coach Brandon. They prepare her for every competition with patience, discipline, and unwavering belief in her. They've helped shape her into a girl who isn't afraid to push herself, challenge herself, and trust her own strength. Because of them, my heart is at ease a little more each time she competes. Jitsu didn't just teach her self-defense -- it opened a whole new world inside her. One filled with courage, growth, friendship, and confidence. Watching her transform has been one of the greatest gifts, and for that, I am endlessly grateful.

We joined the Mini Ronin class and felt welcome right away. Senpai Edwin is amazing, very patient…read morewith the kids and keeps them engaged with fun, structured activities. He does a great job building their confidence, independence, and self-defense skills. We've tried another jiu-jitsu school before, and the difference in care and patience is clear. In addition to learning the techniques of jiu jitsu, Senpai Edwin really encourages the kids to also be helpful at home, be good team players, and to always keep improving themselves. Daniella at the front desk is also the sweetest! Always friendly, welcoming, and personable. The whole place feels genuine and caring, they really make it feel like a home for everyone.

I've been taking my son here for about 7 months now and I couldn't be happier ! It took my son a…read morewhile to get use to being on the mat and around other kids only because he had never done any other sport (so he had no social skills.. my fault! ): ) but over all we have loved being a part of the Ta Danado family. Senpai Edwin and his wife Daniela are such awesome people ! Super helpful and have made this experience for my son one of the best. Senpai Edwin is amazing with the kiddos and I think everyone should be like that especially when working with kids. So if anyone is looking into putting their kids in Jiu jitsu this is the place ! :D So don't say I didn't recommend yall !!

Rating: 4.5/5 - this review is based on one class…read more This gym is great for beginners and an older crowd. I didn't realize how much of a gym desert Castro Valley is until today. I'm originally from San Diego and there are plenty of gyms around my area. However, my sister did mentioned she lived in an older more suburban neighborhood. Unfortunately, I wanted more of a challenging HIIT class that you can find at Barrys or F45 (both of which are an hour away from here). With that being said, they do have TRX bands and assault bikes as well as a variety of weights. They also offer beverages between $1-$5. They were also nice to let you use the assault bikes before and after class. I was expecting more of an energetic and motivated crowd but it was more of a mellow crew of retirees and a preteen boy. It was definitely not what I expected in a bootcamp/HIIT class. Nevertheless, it was a great class albeit I felt like the only gym rat there. Earlier in the class, there was some confusion (partially because the trainer was also teaching people online) but he was able to modify some of the routine so most of us understood what to do. I never expected wanting to do more after a workout but this is a great class if you want to be challenged but not physically exhausted. I also recommend a voice amplifier and more prompts (i.e lift your arms above your head, etc) for the trainer as there was some confusion (maybe due to the music, his low tone or lack of prompts). Will visit again if I'm in the area as it's relatively close to where my family lives. Parking: Plaza Parking Recommendation: They have a first timer special - 3 classes for $50 that includes personal training but I would check online or in person to make sure that it's accurate. They also offer open gym to those with classpass!

I've been going to personal training for 9 mos. every week with Awesta and highly recommend him and…read morethe team at Body Mechanix. I have multiple injuries and body issues that make it hard to work out. I was always injuring myself the moment I tried to do weight training on my own. With Awesta I give him feedback on when something is challenging or exacerbating an issue--I'm learning good form to avoid injuries. He is always responsive and finds modifications so I can stay engaged the entire work out. I also find it more affordable than I expected. I don't do the group classes though they look great, it's a bit too advanced for me given my limitations. Being in there a few times a week, I watch the entire staff cultivate a warm, welcoming environment where you/they say hi to everyone who walks into the space. It's also very diverse. I'm talking both staff and members, culturally, age-wise, body types, genders--no one ever makes you feel you don't belong there.

I've been practicing BJJ for over 25 years and I have to say this place is definitely the spot if…read moreyou're looking for a great place to train. I live an hour away, but I still make the drive because it's worth it.

If you want to learn Brazilian jiu jitsu 510 Renegade is the place. With Great coaches like…read moreChristian, John, & Gary that have many years of experience in martial arts & competition, From Bjj to muay thai. Everyone here is helpful and the atmosphere is excellent, I highly recommend training here!

The staff is very knowledgable and passionate about training people. They care so much. Chris is my…read moretrainer. He has this spirit of helping otheres. I admire that. It's a great place and I recommend it for everyone that ks looking for an exceptional trainer.

I've experienced many boot camps but nothing compares to Coach Chris' class…read more It doesn't matter what athletic level you're at...he'll know how to motivate and guide you to your next level! Just try 1 class...I know it won't be your last.

BAFA Fit is hands down one of the best fitness programs in the Bay Area if you want real results…read moreand a motivating environment. This isn't your typical gym, it's functional, high-energy, and actually fun. The head trainer, Rob, is top tier. He's knowledgeable, encouraging, and knows how to push you while still making sure everyone is training safely and with proper form. Whether you're a beginner or already in good shape, the workouts are challenging but scalable for all levels. What I really like is that the training feels purposeful. You're not just doing random exercises, everything is well-structured, conditioning-focused, and designed to make you stronger, leaner, and more athletic. The atmosphere is welcoming, supportive, and never intimidating. If you're looking to improve your fitness, build strength, burn fat, and train in a positive environment, BAFA Fit is 100% worth it. Highly recommend.

I've been training with BAFA Fit and coach Rob Domingo the last 3 months on MMA. I've learned…read morevarious techniques, fighting styles and exercises within that tome span. We've worked on endurance, power, cardio and strength. For anyone looking to make healthy lifestyle changes or just improve their MMA I highly recommend BAFA and Coach rob. Coach has been great to work with. He pushes us and never lets us feel discouraged.

New location, great coaches, amazing community, get your workout done in 30 minutes or 45 minutes,…read moreyour choice. I have been coming to Fit Body Boot Camp for a few years now. I initially signed up for an 8-week challenge and then committed to an 18-month challenge because I instantly felt inspired by seeing how many calories I was burning in such a short amount of time. Prior to coming here, I inconsistently would go to the gym. I had zero discipline however since coming here, I have integrated bootcamp workouts into my daily routine, which I had NEVER thought I could do. If you are a beginner or getting back into your fitness, no matter where you are in your fitness journey, you should consider coming here. With your membership you have access to unlimited HIIT classes, so you can start off with one or double up. The HIIT classes change daily, and the class schedule has many options to choose from, which makes it easier to find a time that fits for you. The workouts can be challenging, yet fun, and you will walk away feeling accomplished. I love the structure of the class that offers a good balance of cardio and strength. The coaches and the supportive atmosphere got me, everyone is encouraging and the coaches do an amazing job keeping everyone motivated and engaged. The parking can be a bit challenging; with the move to the new location, I am excited to see the ongoing upgrades and appreciate the commitment by Trevon in enhancing the space. I highly recommend this boot camp to anyone looking to improve their fitness while having a great time!

Amazing team, owner & coach Trevon gave me a one hour consultation that included a body scan. He…read moreexplained in detail how to create a caloric deficit to trigger weight loss effectively burning fat while building muscle. I tried one class and the members really seem like an awesome group of people. They offer weekly payment plans for 12 or 18 months to take advantage of the free 30 days. Stop by if you need a reboot the classes are 30 minutes and unlimited if you sign up. Don't wait for a New Years resolution, start now! We should have a Yelp Elite Squad event here!