Advanced Wellness — Local services in San Francisco

I can't gush enough about the team at Advanced Wellness. I've tried a number of different workout regimens, including every kind of gym class you can think of: power conditioning, Bar, step, cycling, yoga, Bikram yoga, boxing, etc. Nothing can beat the semi-private personal training that you get at Advanced Wellness. The workouts change constantly so it doesn't get old. They utilize isometrics which has helped me balance both sides of my body (I started with my left side being much weaker than my right). The trainers are friendly, knowledgeable, and motivating. Kelly doesn't let me get away with whining. They really care about your overall well-being. As an example, Leo, one of the owners, took the time out of his busy day to come with me to a physical therapy appointment to deal with upper extremity problems I developed from working overkill at the computer. It was enormously helpful for him and the PT to communicate with each other about their observations and what activities I should be doing and avoiding. It was definitely above and beyond the call of duty. They only ask that you commit to coming in at least three times a week (an hour each time) which is totally doable, especially for me as a part-time single mom of two kids and running my own law firm. I had lower back pain when I started here (I believe from doing Bikram yoga when I'm hypermobile) and the exercises I've been doing have helped significantly with that. I also started their recommended food program "cleanse" recently (no carbs, dairy, sugar) for 30 days and I feel great. I no longer get tired in the middle of the day. I feel better both physically and mentally. I've made changes in my diet that I will stick to because I no longer have the bad cravings. They won't introduce the food program for the first month of your membership so as not to overwhelm you and I think that gradual introduction is smart. Anyway, this is my long way of saying that this place is awesome and you should give it a good go by signing up for a...

I've never been a gym rat, but I look forward to every workout at Advanced Wellness. That said, this is not what what I consider a typical gym. The community at AW is full of young and old, some in great shape and others on their way. I meet new people every day (introductions are always made at the beginning of every class, one of my favorite things about AW).

Speaking of classes, I love the team training concept. I get all of the benefits of personal training with the camaraderie of a shared experience. I learn, sweat, commiserate, and ultimately work my butt off with people just as driven as me, which makes me want to work even harder too. The owners, Leo and Robbi, and their staff are supportive, instructive, and enthusiastic at all times. I have a plan waiting for me the moment I walk in, and I leave completely exhausted from and elated with my workout.

I'm beginning to understand the transformation I am undertaking at AW, from laying a better foundation for later in life to the immediate benefits of my energy in the here and now. I already feel stronger, move with more confidence, and can't wait to get back in for my next workout.

To be honest, I had no idea what I was getting into when I joined Advanced Wellness. Now, I can't imagine being anywhere else. I am well on my way to being in the best shape of my life. Their motto, "look good, feel great, and live life to the fullest" really says it all for me.

If you are looking for a better gym, a fuller workout, a fitter you, or all of the above, I encourage you to visit Advanced Wellness. AW's $99 one-month trial is a steal and the best way to get a feel for the community, the trainers, and the program itself....

I have been a member of Advanced Wellness for over a year, and it has been one of the best investments I've ever made. Your goals of fitness & health are their goals as well. From their welcoming attitude to the motivational classes & training, you WILL succeed (well, as long as you put the effort in!).

Your initial contact will be a physical assessment with co-owner, Leo. The questionnaire may be extensive, but it helps the team chart your course for wellness. From there, you'll learn the dynamic warmup, the cornerstone of your workout. It took me a few weeks to learn the proper form of the stretches, but staff and other members are there to help. It's like a family.

This brings me to the matter of the other members; they are very sociable and kind. I've made good friendships and shared many laughs while struggling to get through that final set, or "finisher". Training is class based, which I believe leads to a higher rate of success. It is not the type of gym where you walk in at a random time and hit the benchpress, isolated with earbuds blasting music (music is played in each room). The use of the MINDBODY app allows you to join a scheduled class, showing you what's available or not; very convenient. (Don't show up without signing up! Rudeness isn't welcome)

AW isn't a "churn & burn" type of gym. Their goal is to take on like-minded people who are able to commit to an exercise routine for an extended period, who will participate without complaints. The trainers, Meagan, Diana, Kelly, Jonathan, co-owner, and wife of Leo, Robbi (a trained nutritionist) are all experienced, positive additions to the experience.

Call them up. Check it out. You will...