Boxing for Health

I miss Boxing for Health! I went for a couple of months in the spring after getting the groupon 20 class pass. My new job has not allowed me to get down there to continue (so much traffic!), but hopefully I will be able to again in the future. I just watched Creed and it reminded me how much I missed it!
The instructors are awesome — I took Tuesday/​Thursday classes with Miguel, and I got much fitter very quickly. I had taken boxing a bit before in college and I’ve done some «cardio boxing» at a normal fitness gym, but this class was sooo much more! I felt like a learned a ton, and my power and form improved quickly. The class is full of all sorts of people — as other reviewers have noted, no body or fitness shaming, which is really nice. Definitely seems like a microcosm of Oakland/​bay area. Everyone there is really supportive and friendly. The music is great, too — perfect for getting into the boxing mood.
I had a previous shoulder injury (rotator cuff tear/​shoulder break) from a couple of years ago, and honestly, I did not feel like I had my full shoulder strength back until I worked out at this gym. :) I would recommend this gym to anyone who wants to get a great workout, have fun, and learn something while you’re doing it!

I bought a 20 class deal from Groupon and now I’m a regular member! I started going to Miguel’s class on Saturdays but he’s very popular so it gets quite crowded. I switched to OT’s class on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons and that works out better for me. It’s a great cardio conditioning class. He changes up the routine so you don’t get bored and he helps us with technique so we can learn proper form. It does get hot in there in the afternoon because the building faces the west side so drink lots of water and don’t forget a towel!
My only gripe is that the classes never seem to start on time. I think he waits for stragglers to come in after work (5pm class) but it kind of sucks for those of us that are there on time. I’ve gotten over it after a while, just know you have to go w/​the flow but that’s one thing I’d recommend on improving. Otherwise, you get a great workout and sweat a ton!

I bought the groupon twice and let both expire because I was nervous to go. Finally, I bought it a 3^rd time and forced myself to go. I let the trainer know I was nervous and he paid special attention to make sure I was doing okay. I have had four different trainers, and they are all great and work you reeeaaallly hard! I love going to Miguel’s class because he teaches the proper form and stance for each punch. I am terrible with my gross motor ability (it’s hard for me to think about moving my arm and leg at once), and Miguel was very patient while correcting my stance. Love this place!!!

I bought the 10 class Groupon for Boxing for Health in June 2015. Even though all of the reviews were super positive I was pretty intimidated about going to a class on my own. I told my two friends about the Groupon, they bought it and we all started going together. IT HAS BEEN AMAZING!!! I LOVE boxing for health!
I’ve been a member of the Oakland YMCA since I moved to Oakland four years ago and I’m also a runner and I’m a yoga teacher and practitioner. However, I wasn’t feeling super challenged by running and I really haven’t been going to the Y. I really needed something to shift my fitness into high gear. Boxing for Health was the right choice. I have only gone to Tuesday and Thursday night 6pm classes with OT. He’s a great teacher and will work you out hard and you get a full body workout (including hitting the punching bag). What I love about boxing for health is that it’s super body positive and there is no shaming in regards to people’s fitness levels. As a black woman I also love being able to go to a gym that is black owned and where I see my self reflected in the other folks in the class. I also love the music… it helps me get into a zone and just be present for the class.
One recommendation: buy your own boxing gloves. Boxing for Health has a bunch for folks who don’t bring their own but they get sweaty and it’s kind of gross to put your hand in a glove with someone else’s sweat.
Seriously, if you are trying to figure out if Boxing for Health is for you… just try it!

Really enjoyed the boot camp. It definitely gets you sweating in the morning and the instructors are great.

NYE of 2013, one of my resolutions was to start reviewing businesses I frequented. A year and a half later, this is my first review. Better late than never! And, this is a great place for my first review.
After being out of the workout game for several months due to a torn hip flexor, I wisely picked up a Groupon for Boxing for Health. Like many other gyms, it smells of sweat, but who doesn’t expect that?
I took the boxing class at 5:00 with Miguel, and had a great workout. Punches and moves are broken down, and it’s almost like a dance. Miguel seemed very knowledgeable and did a great job walking the room to help all of us adjust our stances or give us advice. I didn’t have boxing gloves, but not to worry, there are some there for everyone to use. I can already feel my muscles getting sore from today’s class as I sit here and type this.
Great gym with unpretentious and friendly people, right by the lake. Who could ask for more?

Why did I take one star off? Because while I was going to the restroom, I accidentally went through the wrong door and a girl (I think it was one of the owners wife or relatives) standing next to a bed looked at me with a death stare, mugging, and frowning. I said «Hi, I’m looking for the restroom» she said «Downstairs» and rolled her eyes at me. Not sure why she was so rude but I definitely disliked seeing her or running into her from then on.
Miguel and Troy are nice so I’m not sure why they have a woman around so polar opposite of them. Maybe that’s why she’s kept in that room hidden away from everyone.
Anyway, the trainers are nice and even some of the other people that box there were nice. One guy I was partnered up with helped me with my boxing form. He was kind enough to apologize for his sweatiness… he was drenched in sweat but was so nice I didn’t mind.
I stopped going after only a few classes because it’s very muggy and super stuffy in there. It’s not their fault, it’s the location of the spot because the place faces the sun so it gets very hot and with everyone sweating it makes it stuffy and smelly.
Word of advice: Take your own gloves

I have been going to this place for 4 months now and it’s GREAT!!! I have seen changes with my body and also increased my self esteem. All the trainers are great and friendly they help with everything from motivating you to showing you the basic fundamentals of boxing. It feels like a family because everyone is so friendly and willing to help out. I have trained with Miguel and Troy and Bilal and they all great and have their own styles. I dare you to try them out and experience them for yourself

Miguel was GREAT! He gave a lot of one on one attention! Learned a lot while receiving a good workout! Thanks Miguel! I’ll definitely be back!

I love this boxing gym. OT is my favorite trainer. He teaches 5pm and 6pm classes. (and maybe others– unsure) Good high impact workouts with good easy instructions from a knowledgeable staff. I bought the groupon for 20 classes. Well worth it! Go check out OT! In his famous words «if its burning, its working!» I also used to take personal lessons from him. He will work you to your full potential– trust me. He is the truth. No excuses, just work when it comes to him!

Love, love, love this place! Not only did I noticeably lost weight (making very minimal changes to my regular routine) but I also just felt better. I went to 1 hr long class a week, cut bread and sweets out of my diet as much as possible and didn’t do a lick of exercising at any other point than my one class a week — 3 weeks and I was down a pants size…
So here’s my honest assessment:
Staff: When i started it was an odd first few weeks bcuz each Saturday I went there was a new face, which I have come to find is not the norm here. But I was fortunate enough to train with all four instructors & they were all so motivating & each one had their own style. & if I’m being 100% real they are ALL sexy… yes ALL of them.geez.that being said, they are super helpful too — they don’t just help the «pretty» girls, they go around to everyone making sure that we are all given equal consideration! I’ve worked mostly with Miguel, the owner and he is (sexy, already covered that) but super professional, down to earth & funny! He motivates us by pushing us while lightening the energy with jokes & the best smile ever.
Place: Most days I walk in, it stinks and I love it! It’s a REAL gym with sweaty people from all walks of life. We sweat from every crevice and we appreciate it bcuz if you have the strength to look around you’ll see that your one of many in the same boat. No one here is going to care about what you look like or if you’re in jeans (although not suggested) or boots or whatever, come as you are & sweat! Everyone’s welcome.
The music I love — it’s upbeat, songs I know, motivating but for the sake of honesty may make some people feel uncomfortable due to explicit content-we’re all adults so not me personally but i get it for some that’s not used to it.
The used boxing gloves are stinky and sweaty so I bought my own, problem solved. You’ll want to get hand wraps too and it helps that Miguel has a video online showing how to properly wrap your hands, otherwise you have to ask either one of the staff of someone working out who looks like they know what they’re doing. either way people there are super friendly and will gladly help, if they can.
My #1 thing is that this is the most diverse group I’ve ever been in. I’ve had one timers with a number of gyms & hated them, mostly becuz I felt like I was the only one who needed to be there. Here there are so many body types, ages, races, and fitness /​boxing levels that’s it’s refreshing!
Either way

I have been Boxing here for 2 weeks and not only is my body firming up but my big stomach is going down. The staff is very helpful. Miguel and Troy compliment each other very well depending on your learning style.
I few days into your class. You may want to get some Dragon Balm and massage it into your muscle after just before bed to prevent body soreness.

Really nice and welcoming people work here. I came here yesterday for my first boxing class EVER and they made me feel totally welcome and inspired to push myself harder. Everyone was helpful and the place was clean. People of ages, genders and fitness levels were there with one goal in mind: to get fit and learn to fight

I love the workout and the people here!!! Great group of professionals and very encouraging.
This is my first week training there. I purchased my workouts thru groupon and I’m heavily considering becoming a regular member… I just gotta get past the sticker shock of the cost for the regular membership; $ 100 monthly for access to gym and classes.
Now be advised it is not a pretty place by any means. So if u need beautiful atmosphere u will be thoroughly disappointed, but if u looking for good sweaty fun and good folk stop I’m sure they’ll be glad to see ya :-)

Love it here! The guys are very professional and kind. Very motivational and encouraging !

WOOHOO! AS GOOD AS IT GETS!
I went for my first ever boxing related workout at Boxing For Health. I have known about it for a year or so, but wasn’t motivated/​committed/​confident enough to walk in and get started. I made excuses: «The hours aren’t compatible with mine» «I don’t have wraps or gloves» «I might cry in front of everyone» «I have bad coordination» «I’m scared»
I love boxing. I grew up on kung fu, WWF, and Mike Tyson. Yes, I am a child of the 80s. I’m an adult and now I want to box.
After hearing nothing but great reviews and positive feedback from members of Boxing For Health, I finally decided NOW IS THE TIME.
The beginners boxing and cardio class is MON-​SAT 10AM-​11AM. You warm-​up with jumping rope (haven’t done that since I was a kid and it felt great!). All equipment is provided to you. Leg lifts, pushups, practicing your stance and jabs. It was all guided and at a reasonable pace. I never felt rushed or stressed, never felt uncomfortable or forced. Very cool, guys.
Yes, it’s true, the wraps were funky and not washed. But they have an antibacterial hand sanitizer dispenser (and it’s filled with the good stuff). Fortunately, I had my own gloves. THE ONLY COMPLAINT: there wasn’t assistance in wrapping your hands properly. Anyone that is shy or doesn’t like to ask for help may do an inadequate job and could hurt themselves. Good thing I’m fresh and know how to wrap.
You get to punch bags. Then you get to punch mitts with the instructor. He takes it slow then you get to go faster and higher and you punch harder and you feel LIKE A BEAST! Wow, what a bitchin’ feeling to punch something and feel your muscles work. Absolutely amazing.
Boxing For Health, thank you. Thank you for being in Oakland. Thank you for taking health seriously. Thank you for posting motivational videos and comments on your Facebook page. Thank you for helping make a body feel good!
For zero frills but absolute fuck yeah GO, GO NOW TO BOXING FOR HEALTH!

This is such a great place to get a good workout. Mind you, these guys who are training us are either a) professional boxers or b) going to go professional soon. So there are no posers here.
If you’re looking for the real deal, sweat and to lose some pounds, this is the gym for you. Yes, it’s grimy, sweaty and sometimes even smelly due to EVERYONE sweating from a serious workout. But hey, that’s how it is. No frills but effective as hell. I’ve dropped one size since going there 5 times.
If you’re looking for a stylish place to bring your latest and cutest gym outfit and accessories, this is not the place for you coz no one cares. Really.
The trainers are serious but very motivating, passionate and friendly. They love what they do especially Miguel. You can’t fake the funk when you’re training a bunch of sweaty, pink-​faced and smelly participants. Personally, I don’t want to be on the receiving end of their punches (ever!) but they’re all super nice and not intimidating.

This is a fantastic gym.
The trainers are tough but not egotistical douche bags who yell at you for no reason.
The workouts go by quick because no workout is the same — very good for people who tend to get bored while working out.
If you are serious about getting into shape try this gym out, it is well worth the money. Note — you will not look cute after your workouts here so if you want to join a gym to show off your cute new Lu Lu Lemon workout wears this is not the gym for you.

When you start taking classes or sign up for a bootcamp at Boxing for Health, you are making a lifestyle change, a mental, physical and emotional change. The gym is community oriented and you feel welcomed every time you step into the gym. As a woman I want to feel strong and healthy. I also want to defend myself if I need to. Boxing for me has been a lifestyle change. I am in the best shape of my life. I started with a four week bootcamp so I could commit myself. I did four more bootcamps after that and then decided to become a member for only $ 55/​month with a year contract.
They also have kid and teen classes which I think is fantastic.
Boxing for Health promotes themselves at First Friday Art Murmur in Downtown Oakland as well. Boxing is an ART. Boxing is DEFENSE. Boxing is STRENGTH. Boxing is MEDITATION FOR THE SOUL.
Bootcamp has everyone– from those who are very out of shape to those in shape, those who are young and those who are over 60! Boxing for Health is about changing your life to be more healthy. ALL PEOPLE ARE WELCOME and the trainers always modify the exercises to fit your needs. The trainers are fantastic and supportive. I especially like Miguel Lopez and Troy King.
If you are ready to make a change in your life, come to Boxing for Health!
They also have a HUGE appreciation party every month.
COME ON IN AND MAKE BOXING FOR HEALTH PART OF YOUR COMMUNITY!
EMMA– OAKLAND

One of the best boxing gyms in the Bay!
Miguel, Troy and Shane are focused on getting you in shape. This gym is a true testament of «You get out of it, What you put into it» I came here when I was out of work and needed to let off some steam.
If you plan to go here just to be cute or think going to a boxing class is «a great conversation starter» then you won’t get too far. If you want to work up a sweat, learn some techniques, be apart of a ‘team’ environment and have fun! Look no further.
Oh, you can get a great work out by signing up monthly and going to the classes, if you’re not ready for the bootcamp.
To be balanced, my only concern — There’s alot of rolling around on the floor, pools of sweat here and there, made me wonder how often does the floor get sanitized. I know, I know, that’s not a very «gangsta» thing to be concerned about but safety first!
Comment — The other reviewer who’s concerned about the music. I too on occasion have been annoyed by the music, not my particular style of hip hop and levels can get up there, but it does get you «amped» and it wasn’t enough for me to stop going.
Your investments will be:
— Gym bag ($ 20 – 30)
— Face towels ($ 2 – 5)
— Hand wrap ($ 10)
— Boxing gloves
($ 30 – 40, don’t be cute and get MMA gloves, your hands aren’t ready yet)
— Water bottle/​Water (They have a water cooler but when it runs out? you’ll have to wait until next months refill)
Now that a brotha got some work! If my commute wasn’t so hectic, I’d still be going here!