08/16/07

A Program To Change Anyone's Life (Beginner to Advanced)

by rginsf

Boot Camp SF has turned this cynic into a believer. Like many others, I learned of BCSF from a sleek looking postcard that said, "6 weeks will change your life." Now, unless the program involved surgery and mood-enhancing pharmaceuticals, I didn't see how that was possible as I was 70 lbs overweight, working 80 hour weeks, unmotivated and probably a bit depressed. Regardless, the next day I called BCSF to see if I was qualified to participate, as I had a ZERO fitness level. They said they had groups for everyone. Skeptical, I signed up figuring if I hated it, I could quit, just as I had with every other exercise program. I nervously arrived that first cold, dark day at 6:00 a.m. in Golden Gate Park, shortly before Thanksgiving. To my horror, it began with a fitness assessment. I was unable to do a single push-up or sit-up, could jog only 1 lap (of 6) and I think I may have stretched their tape and fat measures (seriously.) But the trainers didn't flinch, reminding me I was there to improve. I was assigned to Tracy's group with 7 athletic women. Intimidating, but from the start Tracy was knowledgeable, patient and helpful, while at the same time demanding and tough. Every day was a different work-out in a different location. Although I was always at the back of the group, I was NEVER left behind. Tracy and my classmates were so encouraging. After 6 weeks I had lost a lot of weight, fat and inches and was able to do some sit-ups and push-ups and jog 1.5 miles without stopping. I'm still going to camp, still losing weight and now training for a half marathon in October with some other Boot Campers. I jokingly say I'm a junkie, and Boot Camp SF is my addiction. Well, this is one addiction that doesn't require treatment. Boot Camp SF is the BEST!

• Pros: Everything
• Cons: None

06/17/06

Boot Camp SF rocks!

by ckuglen

These guys/gals are good. The best workout you could ever have in 1 hr. They do not let you know what is coming. Cool people, unique approach.....it's made a difference in how I approach all fitness.

• Pros: Thumbs way up....

06/02/06

Not for the beginner

by jdoe2006

I signed up and beforehand clearly stated that i was a complete and total beginner - never in my life had i run longer than a block, smoker, hated exercise (but trying to change), etc. they assured me that they had beginner sessions. boy were wrong. every session involved running at least 1 mile - for someone who could hardly run a block, this was way over my head. at the 3rd session the pack disappeared onto a trail and no only was there no way i could keep up but they didn't even notice i wasn't with the pack, I ended up just going for a walk by myself in the park. i asked for my money back and to their credit they did give me a refund. probably good for someone who is already in reasonably good shape, for someone starting out stay away.