I enrolled two kids (ages 8 and 11) in the Sk8gym summer camp program the week of July 20th. The teenage instructors were great with the kids, but the camp leadership and overall management tone made for a negative experience. Throughout the week, both of the kids reported a that instructor/owner was frequently shouting and harshly reprimanding young campers and the teenage instructors. During the final session, when the 11-year-old specifically asked the instructor/owner for guidance on how to ollie, instead of receiving coaching, he was told he could never learn the trick because of how he pushed on the skateboard. This left him in tears. Mind this is a camp to teach kids how to skate - of course they are not experts. When I contacted management directly to raise concerns about how the situation was handled, they refused to offer any accountability and instead placed the blame back on the child. While the staff on the ground are doing their best, I cannot recommend this camp due to management's unsupportive and harsh approach. Learning to skateboard should be a fun and welcoming atmosphere. This was not that. read more

The SK8 GYM owners(?) were quite helpful while I was thinking about taking a lesson. But once I paid and couldn't go, they all but refused to give me a refund. (Without going into detail, the reason was their fault, not mine.) As other reviews suggested, the owners delayed responding, blamed me, threatened me with a fee for the refund.... By the way, there's no way to contact an actual human being in "real time" -- no phone, no chat, just an email. The instructor who gave the lesson was good, very encouraging and clearly a great instructor. If I could rate the instructor alone, I would give a 5-star review. However, the overall experience really soured me to going back... ever. I'll go to the Church of 8 Wheels from here forward. read more

These negative reviews are totally unfounded, either that, or the business has evolved and functions very, very well. These reviews completely scared us a year ago, and a year of trying Park & Rec classes and skateboarding camps where our child really didn't make progress, we enrolled here after a word-of-mouth recommendation. Our child has enjoyed and learned so much through his trainers (extraordinaire!), he has gone from wanting to master a skill, to being held back by fear, and then amazing confidence on the skateboard, and not just that, the summer camp is legit one of the few camps in the city where children actually learn new skills, and bond and have great fun - and have good restrooms to use and sinks to wash hands! Private lessons are not cheap, but thankfully last minute cancellations can be 'bought back' with a small fee. read more

The owner of this company (Sladjana) literally has no customer service skills and obviously so in need of $150.00 that she refuses to refund me for a lesson, which she canceled 9 hours after I booked due to an injury to their instructor--whom she also stated in her emails to be injured frequently. Despite me verbalizing to her that I will not be available in the near future due to work/other commitments, this person still is refusing to refund for a service they did not provide. Let me also ask you this--would you want your child or yourself taught how to skateboard by an instructor that is frequently injured? On top of this, I was a returning customer and I also tipped $10.00 for no reason on the previous lesson (they have an option to tip $5 or $10). If you want to take classes, please look elsewhere. In the East Bay, there are two great options out here that teaches in an actual indoor skatepark and they also provide the skateboard and safety equipment for free as opposed to Sk8 Gym who literally charges extra for every single piece of equipment. In addition, these two other options are priced better and you don't have to learn at an Elementary school, you get to learn at an actual private indoor skate park. read more

I took the Beginner Class and the Intermediate Class for Adult Roller Skaters and do NOT recommend them for their teaching or their customer service. The Beginner Class was okay. On the plus side, it was a full class of eight, so I met cool other beginner skaters to get to know and practice with. The teaching itself was not good. Jessica Ferguson was the teacher (in Berkeley FYI) and she seemed like an experienced skater who had no idea how to handle a class. She would show us useful skills, but then seemed to have trouble managing the class - she'd tell us to do something, but then would tell us to stop and go one at a time, but wouldn't say who should start. The class seemed to be structureless too, like the first class she showed us a variety of stopping techniques and then the second class was exactly the same. Then she said we'd play some games the third class, but then we just did other things. We didn't even get to most of the skills listed on the website. The Intermediate Class: Even though I wasn't too happy after the Beginner Class, I gave Sk8 Gym and Jessica the benefit of the doubt and thought that maybe it was just a new teacher and she'd get better. But I showed up for the Intermediate Class and was the *only* student. I purposely didn't sign up for personal lessons because I wanted and class and I expect that if they didn't have more signups, they'd give me the option of canceling. Nope. And then Jessica's lesson plan was the same as if you wanted to learn from a friend: "So what do you have questions about?" I just had to wrack my brain for what the website said and so we just did a couple things. As a new skater, taking the Intermediate (and not even the Advanced), I don't know everything I need to learn. I don't want to come up with the plan. When I contacted Sk8 gym to express my concerns and ask for a partial refund for the rest of the Intermediate classes, I was not impressed. Some person (unsigned emails) just responded really defensively, did not apologize for anything and just copied and pasted the disclaimer saying that they wouldn't refund money under any circumstances. Don't waste your money. read more

My son got a skateboard back in November for his birthday and we signed up for lessons for Sk8 gym. From the beginning Marko has been very kind, patient, and most importantly SAFE with my son. The first lesson is not just pushing on a board and dropping in on the nearest ramp or learning some cool trick. He has a very specific curriculum for getting you comfortable on your board and training safety before he ever progresses you. He is great at pushing you out of your comfort zone when he knows you're ready. Lessons typically start with a warm-up, testing skills from previous lessons, working on new skills, then a debrief at the end with homework. My son has gone from not knowing how to push a skateboard to now dropping in at skateparks. He's had many different teachers thru Sk8 gym aside from Marko and they've all been great. I got so jealous of how much fun he was having that at 40+ I decided to try it out too and it's been so much fun. read more

This is the worst kind of guy in town. He prides himself on being a "Marin skateboarder with 10+ years of teaching" he is aggressive and tried to hit me (a 16 year old). He is bad news and has all of the wrong concepts and intentions when it comes to skateboarding. If thinking of doing lessons with him I would think again. Better lessons are given for half the price and by REAL SKATEBOARDERS. This man should not be allowed to work with kids in our community read more

on my last visit to SF , my son was introduced to skating by his cousin, who had just started also. He was already taking classes with Marko and his team for a few months now, so my son signed up for a class along with cousin. Myself being a (old) skate rat from the east coast. I was curious to see how this was going to go down. All I have to say is, AWESOME! Marko was able to get my son comfortable on a board real fast. He used balence techniques that I have never thought of, that gave my son the confidence to "get after it"! My son was hooked after that and went back for a second class before our trip back home to NY. The Sk8 Gym team provided positive reinforcement, knowledge, and most of all fun when introducing skateboarding to my son and I couldn't have been more impressed. They should definitely try to bring Sk8 Gym out to the east coast. The experience is well worth it! read more

The experience could not have been better. Marco was flexible and accommodating in terms of our schedule. The class was super well structured. It was the first time our 9-year-old girl and our 6-year-old boy rode. Marco created a safe and challenging environment for them. They went through several different exercises that both built up their skills and confidence and at the same time got them excited about the sport. That's so challenging to do. In my experience classes are either to methodical and boring or over-challenge the kids and make them uncomfortable. Marco achieved a perfect balance and my kids are super eager to continue their riding. Thank you Marco, you contributed to a great day for our family! read more

I'm considered SK8 supporter. This is the third skateboard packages that I bought for my son to attend the 1:1 private lesson. Before an incident happened, SK8 staffs (Marco and Sladjana) are polite and responsive. Since I have make a cancellation of the skateboard class about 21 hours before the schedule lesson due to unexpected injuries on my son which they are requesting $35 recover fee and notify me that they are the only company provide makeup lesson with fee and this is the business model to avoid company goes bankrupt. Since then they are not reply my mails for scheduling lesson for my son even i have 6 classes left on the package I have bought. This is getting ridiculous. I would said if nothing happened then it is good service been provided, once it is something occured they will not treat customer the right way. Even Marco is not picking up and returning message and calls. I cannot speak to other service providers but will urge people to re-consider before going to SK8. read more

Written by my wonderful wife Celia who does not have a Yelp! account. She is too busy skating and mountain biking to spend time online. "Marko is an amazing skateboard instructor. He customizes his teaching methods to the skill level of his students. When he asks you to work on a new drill or move, you know you are ready for it. Marko never under or over challenges you thus his classes are safe. Besides, safety and protection are his priority. He is very encouraging and I love all the different probes (railings, balancing boards, ramps, etc) he brings to the lessons to practice techniques. I never thought I was going to skateboard on a railing! I recommend him to teach anyone at any age!" read more

We did a group lesson for my son's 13th birthday and the kids, both boys and girls, had so much fun! It was incredible to see how much they learned over the course of two hours as well. Marko had two guys helping him which worked out great because the kids were all at different skill levels and abilities. They were all patient, engaging, and thorough but also knew how to keep a bunch of 13-year-olds in line (and safe). They supplied the boards and pads and the kids simply had to bring their helmets. Overall, great experience and I'm so happy to have found something that could be socially distanced, outdoors and safe. I would totally do this for my son again, even for a private lesson. read more

I scheduled one lesson with an instructor for my six year old, then spoke with Marko who offered a discounted purchase at $699 for a 10 class advance package in September that could be used indefinitely. As the classes are unavailable I find out that instructor got hurt, then no longer works there, and there's a new coach commuting in from Marin who is just as infrequent to give lessons in SF. After multiple re-schedules, my plans to use 10 sessions when I purchased the beginning of September turns into 1 lesson only. By December, I've written and spoken to Marko numerous times, and with blocked numbers and his decisions to reschedule my classes, I've asked for a refund only to be referred to Sk8 Gym's policy of 'No Refunds' and I should be patient while Marko let's his instructor heal, then offer another instructor. Their scheduling via email is not a solution, also must read the fine print there, and emailing with Sladjana her responses are they're not accountable. Since December through today this service "business" has provided 1 class of 10 in four months, and no further contact. read more

I am an adult woman with no skateboarding experience prior to my lesson with Marko. To be a good teacher, you have to be part expert and part saint. Marko is both. He is very empathetic and amazingly good at seeing things from his student's perspective. You will walk away from your lesson having learned a lot but also confident and armed with the tools you need to get better in between lessons. The most important takeaway for any prospective student or parent of a prospective student is that this guy is just a really good human. He is the kind of guy I would want teaching my friends and family. The two students who booked a session right after mine were under ten years old. It was immediately clear that Marko is amazing with kids. I highly recommend him to anyone (of any age) interested in picking up the sport. read more

Both of my sons were reluctant to try skateboarding at first but when we signed them up for skateboard lessons with Marko, all that changed. He has a natural talent for teaching and making kids feel comfortable, confident and safe. Our boys have grown to trust Marko as he takes them slightly out of their comfort zone and it shows in the skills they have learned on a skateboard. I absolutely recommend SK8 GYM to anyone who wants to learn to skate. read more

I've had about 6 sessions or so with Jessica and they have all been so much fun! She encourages us that it's ok to make mistakes and not to fear falling cause it's a part of learning and getting better (and she teaches how to stay low and fall safely!) . My skating has improved, I've learned proper terminology, built a better foundation for skating and have developed a few new techniques as well. My only complaint, which is actually no fault of hers cause she doesn't set the price, is that the classes are pricey considering people are giving lessons for free or by donation all around town now. I do appreciate the consistent personal attention we can get from her and would like to continue with her but it's hitting my pocket book harder than I'd like it to! But Jessica has been a fab instructor! And as a plus, my class/skatemates are all super encouraging. If someone does a skilll or attempts something they were nervous about, even if not executed properly, there are claps and cheers. We definitely push each other to try!! read more

During Marko's visit to Florida he gave our son and daughter both skateboard lessons. It was their first skate lesson and they absolutely loved it. Marko was very patient and sensitive to their individual needs. He continuously encouraged them and built up their confidence using fun games to learn new skills. Our kids still talk about the lesson and can't wait to see him again and get more lessons!!! Thanks Marko for bringing skating into our kids lives. read more

My son has had both private and group lessons with SK8Gym. His skateboarding has improved dramatically in the last 6 months because of the close attention all the instructors pay to him. These lessons have given him confidence both on and off his skateboard. The group lessons are really great value for money compared to others. They are also fun. SK8Gym also do skate parties, supplying all the equipment. My son said these are also really fun and very well organised. I would highly recommend Marko and his SK8GYM team, they are skilled, responsible, encouraging and great value. read more

I love Marko and Sk8 Gym. Marko made it so easy for my child to learn skateboarding. For those who are afraid of commitment, you can rent the equipment (board, pads, helmet) from him and he brings it to the lesson. He was so great with my physically cautious child. He starts from the very foundational basics, even more basic than I would have thought skateboarding needed. Because of that, though, my child enjoyed the classes from the very start. He is very patient and kind, and explains everything. Thank you so much, Marko. read more

Marko is such an amazing coach! He's super good at teaching for a total beginner like me. I started from a balancing training and gradually getting used to the board. This was awesome to me especially I felt scared at the beginning. Now I'm able to ride the board! He constantly motivates me with positive words. I've been enjoying his classes so much! Highly recommended!! read more

Marko is a great coach, very patient, supportive and encouraging. My son (6) enjoys his lessons very much, and looks forward to the next one. I highly recommend Marko! read more

My daughter has been working with Marko for about a month now... Not only has her skateboarding skills improved dramatically but Marko is one of the most positive supportive and encouraging coaches I have experienced. What I really appreciate about Marko is his professionalism and the seriousness with which he takes his craft... And make no doubt about it, skateboarding is a craft and his attention to detail, safety while making it fun and enjoyable at the same time is a joy to witness. My daughter's confidence level has skyrocketed and she has way more tricks, literally, in her bag now. I recommend Marko without hesitation and I look forward to continuing to watch him work with my daughter. read more