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START Fitness - Sgt Ken's Boot Camp
Rating Details »
Neighborhood: Pacific Heights
1625 Bush St
Ste 4
(between Franklin St & Gough St)
San Francisco, CA 94109
(415) 225-5715
1625 Bush St
Ste 4
(between Franklin St & Gough St)
San Francisco, CA 94109
(415) 225-5715
Get 3 free classes now with TRX!
For a limited time, com try the longest running Boot Camp fitness program in America! Now with TRX, our program demands results. Call now.
Announced 1 week ago
1 of 46
- Hours:
Mon-Fri. 6:00 a.m. - 7:00 a.m.
- Good for Kids:
- No
31 reviews for START Fitness - Sgt Ken's Boot Camp
This business is a Yelp Sponsor
2/13/2007
4/8/2009
Updated - 3/24/2009
5/28/2009
10/1/2009
8/20/2009
2/13/2007
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Updated - 3/29/2009
4/27/2007
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3/24/2009
1/29/2007
One of the Business' Favorite Reviews What's This?
There's only one boot camp you should ever go to, perhaps only one work out program you'll ever need, and that's Sgt. Ken's. No really, I've been going to Sarge's classes for 5 years now, and proximity to his 6am class was a key criteria when I chose my apartment, so I should know!
No matter what your shape or fitness level, you'll be proud as hell after surviving his class and shocked at the results. Nowhere else will you be pushed to your limits and motivated by the the great people around you to squeeze out that one additional push up (or two, or three, or however many you need to find that special place called muscle failure you'll get to know so well). Nowhere else will you get so much out of 60 minutes, guaranteed.
You're in for a real treat if you do the 6am at Karate One which includes incredible running days twice a week in the SF hills overlooking the bay. What a way to start your day, and as Sarge says, "you'll do more before 7am than most people do all year."
HOOAH!
Oh wow.
So every morning the bf and I look out of our window and laugh at these bootcampers sweating on by as we sip our morning coffee and peacefully eat breakfast.
Then my friend tells me she wants to do at least a week of bootcamp before her birthday (in 2 weeks). Being loyal friend, I recommend Sgt Kens and we started the next day.
I consider myself athletic and fit, but this class KICKED my ass. Which obviously is a great thing. We got 2 great days of indoor training, but the best was the 2 days outdoor running. I will never forget watching the sunrise from Coit Tower or running up and down Taylor, Jones, and Powell while tied to my friend with a rubber band.
Next time I have to listen to my friends complain about being out of shape or "baby weight" I am sending them here- they will see results within a week- I did, my friend did, our boys did.
Did I join? No. I motivate myself at 24, but will I if ever I need the extra training or fitness touch-up? Absolutely.
Sgt. Ken has moved to a brand new facility!
Classes have moved from their former cramped quarters at the K1 karate school on Van Ness to the huge and insanely clean San Francisco Aikido Dojo on Bush between Franklin and Gough.
While the new location lacks the frat house charm of K1, it does offer enough space for the sergeant's ever expanding class, really soft mats and, perhaps most importantly at 6:00AM, a Royal Ground Coffee location right across the street.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/31/2005 First to Review
7-11-07 update: Class now also available at 8:00AM in addition to the 6:00AM.
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You can pay more,… Read more »
My husband and I did the trial week for this boot camp since it's very close to our home and thus convenient in the mornings. I really enjoyed being pushed to the edge and to experience what I can and cannot do.
The trainers, especially Bianca, were really knowledgeable and helpful, also with general tips on how to best treat soreness and what to eat.
The running days are really not my thing and I hated them. Also the running group is pretty advanced so it was frustrating to me.
We really considered joining this boot camp but for now decided not to, since we also have another gym membership and it would be too much. But I am still considering to join them in the future, since it's a great way to get in shape.
Comment from Sgt. Ken W. of
START Fitness - Sgt Ken's Boot Camp
5/28/2009
Keep in mind that we have always offered a fantastic…
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Warning: you must be in at least adequate shape to be able to survive an hour of class. It's THAT intense.
My first day I felt like I couldn't get through it and everytime the instructor would command a different exercise, I thought to myself "There's no way in hell I could do that!"
Three months later I still said the same thing. But you know what? At the end of every single workout I felt a little bit better about myself. I started losing weight and started seeing my body transform. The workouts were indeed challenging.
The jogging days are little bit daunting but I usually enjoyed them since we scroll through the scenic parts of San Francisco in the midst of the morning fog. It's a great jog and made me want to jog through those areas myself.
If you're a morning person and can wake up in time for class @ 6AM and want an intense morning workout that will wake you up, there is no better option than START fitness. You won't regret it!
So I finally signed up after trying out the free week trial. This bootcamp is great!! It is pretty hard but totally worth it. I think waking up around 5-5:30am Monday through Friday may be harder than the actual bootcamp :) I am NOT a morning person but I force myself to get out of bed anyway.
A 6am bootcamp has its advatages: you're done for the day and don't have to worry about going to the gym after work.
The instructors are great!! People attending this bootcamp are at different levels (I consider myself a beginner especially when it comes to running) but as long as I know that I'm doing my best, I'm ok with being "the last one" or "almost last one" to arrive at destination on those running days.
If you want a great workout without having to get stuck on the treadmill or being bored at the gym, try Start Fitness, it will kick your ass!!
I came. I tried. I wanted to throw up (and nearly did on one of the running days - thanks Nikki!).
Three months of this and I was fitter than I've been since I played sports in school. The sense of encouragement and community is what really makes this class different. They know they're pushing you beyond your comfort zone, that's the point, and everyone else there knows what it feels like, and that you can, in fact do it. So they cheer you on. You want to die or get sick or swear at them, but hey, look at that, you ARE doing it!
They're tough, but they care. Excellent value for your dollar and if I wasn't so allergic to getting up that early, I'd still be doing it. I'd also be able to walk up a flight of stairs without huffing and puffing. . .
If you're new, give it a few weeks - it really does get easier, even if it's never easy.
Love the indoor classes. Really, there's no other class that I've taken that worked me out that much. Plus, it was super-fun and the instructors are motivating. I don't know about Tuesdays and Thursday's outdoor running days--I didn't go (I live in Oakland and my schedule didn't allow me to drive to SF those mornings). I wish there was something like this in the East Bay; I'd go everyday for sure!
Comment from Sgt. Ken W. of
START Fitness - Sgt Ken's Boot Camp
5/8/2009
We have had many requests for our Boot Camp fitness program…
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Amazing workouts. PERIOD.
You won't get bored,
You will get in great shape (if you consistently attend).
I've never been much of a runner, but after a few months of taking the Start Fitness classes, I've begun to appreciate the benefits of running, and in a sick sort of a way, look forward to the Tues & Thursday runs.
The instructors are fantastic. To me, there's nothing more de-motivating than seeing an instructor that is out of shape and apathetic. None of that going on at Start! The instructors are in incredible shape, and do a great job of motivating you, and pushing you to the next level without being intimidating.
If you REALLY want to get into shape - this is the way to do it.
A friend of mine challenged me to attend Sgt. Ken's boot camp one early morning in May at the Crunch on Chestnut. I thought that my cycling training had me in great shape, but after my foray into Ken's class I realized that I had muscles I never knew existed. I say this because these muscles were screaming for a good three days afterwards.
A typical workout begins with a basic aerobic warm up and then, he'll look at you and scream, "STAIRS!" And that's when the hard work starts. It's hard, but it's also motivating and a blast. Expect to be challenged and expect to become stronger.
Needless to say I am now a consistent devotee to his weekly class. Over the course of a 3 months I've noticed significant strength gains ( I can do a lot of pushups now without going into coma) and that 1 hour is, albeit a very hard 1 hour, becoming more sustainable.
HOORAH!
Comment from Sgt. Ken W. of
START Fitness - Sgt Ken's Boot Camp
5/12/2009
We enjoyed creating "Camp Crunch" for Crunch fitness! The…
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Ken's bootcamp rocks! I wish he'd open one up in the East Bay in his own hood!! I miss my AM workouts. However, the city is too far for me. I've tried all types of classes and trainers....this bootcamp is by far the best. You will have a fantastic time. HooaH!
Not sure what Kathie is talking about. Sgt Ken is great! Classes rock. Try it and you will see.
I have enjoyed only a few sessions of Sgt Ken's bootcamp so far. I have never had a better workout. The first session was a bit of a shock to my system and I had to really struggle to keep up, but the support from the staff and the other members of the class is amazing. This is the one feature of START that sets it apart from all the rest as far as I am concerned. Remember those commercials about "be all that you can be?" Well, that is the general tone of the workouts, and I am certain that this quality finds its origin in Sgt Ken himself. And the supportiveness of all the staff and other people in the classes is right out there. It doesn't matter if you are out of shape and struggling to get that last pushup, or just ready to drop on your first long distance run...you are always one of the class and they don't let you forget it. You can be dying of exhaustion and have ten feet more to go to cross the line and someone on the other side of the class will call out, "come on, just ten feet to go, you can do it" and it makes all the difference.
I would highly, highly recommend Sgt Ken's to everyone.
I have been to a couple of other different boot camps before and this one is the BEST by far. It is an intense workout but that is why you come!! I was hooked after the free trial week.
Nikki and Bianca are the regular instructors for the class and they are fantastic. Sgt Ken came to instruct one class in the last month and he was very nice. The instructors and the others in the class are all very encouraging and help you keep motivated when you think you just can't do another push-up! I highly recommend this boot camp.
Simply the best. Sgt Ken's team - Nikki, Bianca and the rest - put you through the most intense, varied and stimulating work out on the planet. And I should know, since I've trained for the past 35 years all over the world. I've been doing Ken's Bootcamp for 8 years, and the core training is what I still use to help me compete in Triathlons, endurance races - and to keep up with my kids these days. Whilst the instruction is very focused it's never in your face; the motivation comes from the group and from yourself. I can not recommend this any more highly.
HOOAH! I've tried every kind of workout there is (and other bootcamps) and Start Fitness is, by far, the best there is. It's never easy...It's never monotonous, and the instructors are ridiculously in great shape (which is what makes you realize that this is for real). Just try to keep up with them; they'll just laugh in your face. ha! No, really - they are amazing and extremely inspirational. And everyone else in the class makes you want to keep going and give it your all...that is why you're waking up when its still dark outside to workout, isn't it? I've yet to throw up from doing the working outs, but I'm optimistic.
Seriously THE best workout i have ever had. I have been doing bootcamp on and off for the past 5 years. Sgt Ken is super motivational and will get you looking your best and feeling taught and toned in no time at all. I am an avid surfer and snowboarder - his class with some yoga on the side is all i need to perform my best.
if you are looking for a workout program that works! this is the place for you. there is never a dull moment....seriously, this definitely ain't no 24-hour Fitness!
Amazing work out - this is not for the weak. I've only just started the program and have never worked out so hard in my life. I highly recommend this if you are looking to get in serious shape. It's also a great atmosphere with awesome people that give you support to help you push yourself to the limit. And they don't laugh when you fall on your face trying to do push-ups :)
Seriously, do NOT be intimidated by all the yelling. Sgt. Ken is the most down to earth, caring, yet HIGHLY motivating "fitness instructor" out there. I was scared to death of this class at first, now I am addicted. I will rearrange a date or work to make this class - you should too. You will not get a better workout in 60 minutes anywhere.
One of the main things that keep me at Crunch on Polk....well, besides my girls Shermineh and Annie! I am absolutely addicted. You can't get a better work out with a better instructor. Sgt Ken is the BEST. I'm so happy to see he is getting the recognition he deserves. If you can, check this class out. It might take more than one class to become comfortable and mentally tough, but I'm telling you, it's worth it. Every single muscle is worked in one hour.
HARD CORE is all I have to say! A great workout. Definitely keeps my butt in shape for sure. Sgt. Ken knows about fitness and nutrition and can answer any questions I have. His bootcamp class is something everyone can participate in but you have to go there expecting to work hard. Different fitness levels go regardless. I hightly recommend his class!
Sgt. Ken offers a difficult workout that will challenge you for years.
Sgt. Ken is one of my oldest friends in San Francisco. I walked into his class one day and could not do a single push up. Within a few months I was so strong that I started going to his classes 3 - 4 times a week. The exercises are so challenging and so effective that I became intensely strong. He was my first personal trainer and has inspired me to pursue fitness as a career. That was 7 years ago. I have been a very successful personal trainer for over 2 years, largely owing to the inspiration I received early on from Sgt. Ken and START FITNESS! If you can hang with this fitness program, you can do anything!
you will not regret this workout...Intense!! Heart beating so hard you feel like its going to bounce out of your chest like a basketball:)
-I suggest trying his spin class as well...maybe even the two classes back to back wedn. night at crunch alahambra...
Anyway-Sgt. is a great, motivating instructor..come join the bootcamp experience...youll have bulging bicepts and tricepts in no time!!!!
PROMISE
What can I say, Sgt. Ken rocks! My only complaint is that I live in the east bay, and with my lousy schedule I haven't been able to come to his class as much as I'd like. (If only there were classes in walnut creek!) I work in a field where physical fitness isn't an option, it's a necessity. Sgt. Ken's workout is the only one I've tried that gets me into the shape I need to be in.
Sgt Ken is tough, but incredibly motivating.He "walks his talk" and generally cares about his students. He is a GREAT person and I can't say enough good things about him. Bottom line, if you want to sit there, eat bon bons, watch Oprah and whine about your ass getting fat, fine. If you want to actually do something about it, go to START fitness.
PS, you're gonna be sore. Deal with it.
START Fitness kicks my ass. Especially the Tuesday and Thursday running days. I'm always looking for the next exercise to keep me engaged and motivated and I think START Fitness is that program. I've taken boot camps in the past and have been physically active my entire life, but I've never worked out to the point where I feel like I'm going to puke. At the same time, the camaraderie and support you get from both the instructors and your fellow classmates is unparalleled. I'll admit, when my alarm goes off at 5:30 am, I just want to throw it against the wall and dive back under the covers. But START Fitness is worth the early morning wake up call. And I feel great for the rest of the day. I've even started to notice that my clothes fit a little looser since I started this camp 3 weeks ago. I would recommend this boot camp to anyone looking to break their work out plateau and take their fitness to the next level. HOOAH!
Comment from Sgt. Ken W. of
START Fitness - Sgt Ken's Boot Camp
5/10/2009
Thanks, Erika! For over 12 years, we have offered indoor…
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A truly amazing program that helped me take my fitness to a higher level. The instructors have the ability to put people from all fitness and athletic levels into a position to "max out" their own personal goals and abilities. The classes are constantly challenging, fun, and leave me feeling a mix of completely exhausted and energized from the great workout. Instructors successfully walk the line of being very strong with the motivation techniques while always being positive and uplifting, never singling anyone out in a negative manner.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/24/2008
Yes, bootcamps are the latest "fitness fad"....but this class is the real deal. I actually took a… Read more »
One of the best boot camps in the Bay Area. As long as you are able to get up in the morning you will get in shape! Nothing beats the accomplishment you feel afterwards and when you improve. Thanks Sgt. Ken for offering this program. Great value.
Absolutely the best workout you'll ever get in SF. Plus, Sgt. Ken gives you personalized attention.
by far the toughest workout you'll love! sgt ken is one of the best fitness instructors i've had and knows how to motivate and inspire everyone to be the best they can be in his classes. he's also a big teddy bear and great person. try it for yourself!
I have participated to many bootcamp classes but this one is by far the best. Sgt. Ken pushes you to your limits.
