Top 5 Boutique Gyms in Oakland from a Barry's Bootcamp Fan
- Esther Ayorinde-Iyamu
- Jan 16
- 5 min read
Hey Neighbors, for those who are still closing those exercise rings on your fitness watch by now, CONGRATULATIONS, you have made it passed the official "National Quitter's Day" on Jan 10th 🥳. Yes, there is an official day that most people quit their well-intentioned pledges to fitness and its the 2nd Friday of January. Thankfully, that's not you, and if you slipped a little, don't worry you can get back in the game with some great local Oakland fitness studios offering discounts to get started.
Some context before I share... I am a Former NFL and NBA Dancer of 7 years and was very used to 3-4 hour workouts at the end of a work day. I struggled finding a 50 minute workout that I could fit into my schedule and get the similar results as I did as an athlete. While living in NYC I found Barry's Bootcamp and became a Barry's STAN! However, after moving to Oakland Hills I was tired of driving all the way to San Francisco or Burlingame, CA for my favorite workout.
Thanks to neighbors in the area, this top 5 list was born. I've tried their classes and here is my honest feedback. I figured, while I was at it, I might as well tell them about this community and ask for discounts available to us 😎
So, if you're in Oakland and seeking a workout where you leave drenched, here are my five picks
This was by FAR my favorite and closet to Barry's Bootcamp. Located in Montclair village district right next door to Safeway, Orangetheory Fitness combines running, rowing, and strength training, all while monitoring your heart-rate with wearable device! I left the class fully drenched and felt accomplished. I was a bit overwhelmed by the tracking and multiple instructions during the 50 minute class, but the trainer was incredibly supportive, encouraged the other students to help me, and said "once you get used to it, it will get easier and the more classes you take, the more the workouts get tailored to meet your fitness goals". Each class is designed to maximize calorie burn while improving endurance, power, and strength. I even got an email at the end of the class with all the data captured during my wearable during my workout to help me align my meals, hydration, sleep etc outside of the gym. So cool!
What to Expect: High-energy interval training in a supportive environment. Parking isn't so fun since it's right in downtown and you can't park in the Safeway parking lot so give yourself time.
Why It’s Great: Classes are tailored to all fitness levels from newbie to athlete, and real-time data with a wearable device helps you connect your workout to the rest of health routine.
Address: 2084 MOUNTAIN BLVD STE 102, Oakland, CA, 94611
New Year Offer: First class is FREE. Discounts on annual packages including your own wearable device
For a Pilates-inspired workout with a modern twist, BodyRok is a must-visit. Their reformer-based classes focus on core strength, flexibility, and muscle toning. I really enjoy the music, the informative instructors, and the early morning class slots available. The varied levels in each exercise is perfect for those looking to challenge themselves while enjoying a low-impact workout.
What to Expect: 45-minute classes combining strength, cardio, and Pilates-inspired movements.
Why It’s Great: A fast-paced yet low-impact workout that delivers serious results in a short amount of time. Easy parking, especially in the morning. They boast getting the same intensity of a 60 minute workout in just 45 mins
Address: 3251 Lakeshore Ave, Oakland, CA 94610.
New Year Offer: First class is $20 and must be booked in 30 days.
BFT offers a mix of science-based group training programs. From strength training to high-intensity interval training (HIIT), each session is designed to improve your overall fitness and well-being. Their message is "Train with Purpose at BFT to get the most of YOUR 2025 - get STRONGER and HEALTHIER with REAL strength training and PRO-level cardio sessions in a fun group setting, and save HUGE $ over personal trainers".
What to Expect: A variety of functional training classes tailored to your fitness goals.
Why It’s Great: Workouts are designed by exercise scientists to ensure maximum effectiveness and safety.
Address: 6300 College Ave, Oakland, CA 94618.
New Year Offer: 🛎 GEOFFREY MEMBERS ONLY OFFER 🛎 While anyone can register to receive 25% off the 1st month special running now through Jan 31st, BFT Rockridge is partnering with Geoffrey to offer our members 25% off of all enrollment. Become a Geoffrey Member free and get your access code via email
For those who prefer a mind-body connection, CorePower Yoga offers a range of classes that blend strength, flexibility, and mindfulness. The studio’s heated yoga options are a favorite for detoxing and rejuvenating after the holiday season. I signed up for a trial class and was unfortunately 8 mins late... of which the front desk attendant was NOT pleased about (and wasn't very kind unfortunately). To be fair, my neighbor did advise to go to the Berkeley location and I missed the memo and went to the Rockridge location 🫣. I did get to take the class and left drenched, which was a positive.
What to Expect: Classes range from beginner-friendly yoga flow to advanced power yoga in a heated room. The doors will be locked at the start of class so don't be late 😇
Why It’s Great: Combines physical intensity with mindfulness and heated yoga, perfect for stress relief and toning.
Address: 5107 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94611
New Year Offer: First class is free and the first month of membership is just $99. They also offer free community classes on the weekends.
Ok Ok I know its not in Oakland and I b****ed about them before 🤣... but I HAD to plug Barry’s Bootcamp on Bush Street. It is worth the short drive over the bridge, especially early morning, and it's located right on the other side of the Bay Bridge. Barry's Bootcamp is known for its “Red Room” workouts, combining treadmill sprints with weight training, and incredible music for a high-energy, calorie-blasting session. As a dancer, I am obsessed and you leave drenched every single time. Parking can be a pain if you are there after 8am so I would recommend the 6am class for free street parking. There is also a parking lot across the street but it can get expensive depending on the time you park there.
What to Expect: Intense full-body workouts in a club-like atmosphere with pumping music and expert motivational trainers.
Why It’s Great: Renowned for its 1000-calorie burning workouts and community vibe under red lights.
Address: 333 Bush St, San Francisco, CA 94104.
New Year Offer: For first timers, Barry's is offering 3 classes for $75 + a free Fuel Shake on your 3rd class, this is a $39 savings as each class has gone up to $38 per class 🤯
Conclusion
Wherever you get your workouts this year, I hope this supports you in keeping that routine going for a healthy and happy 2025. And (shameless plug) to let the experts handle your home, car, pet, and personal chores so you have the space to focus on a healthy and happy 2025, join our community of Neighbors to tap in to a dedicated team of pre-vetted service providers at a group rate. Becoming a member is free via the link below! You got this! 🏋️♀️💪
Note: Promotions and offers are subject to change. It's recommended to contact the gyms directly or visit their official websites for the most current information.
Have a favorite boutique gym in Oakland? Let us know in the comments
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