Boxing For Health

What We Like
- Experienced founder/trainers
- Classes for all levels
- Youth programs available
- Various membership options
- Boot camp programs offered
- Welcoming environment
What to Consider
- Closed Sundays/holidays
- Limited Saturday hours
Frequently Asked Questions
About Boxing For Health
Boxing For Health, situated at 452 Santa Clara Ave in the Grand Lake area of Oakland, California, is a boxing gym and fitness center dedicated to providing comprehensive training for individuals of all ages and skill levels. Founded by Miguel Lopez, a professional boxer with roots in San Francisco's Western Addition district, the gym offers a supportive environment where members can improve their fitness, learn boxing techniques, and build confidence.
The gym's location in Oakland provides convenient access for residents throughout the city and surrounding areas. It is positioned in a vibrant neighborhood with easy access to public transportation and local amenities, making it a practical choice for those seeking a fitness program that fits seamlessly into their daily routine. The gym is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and on Saturday from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. It is closed on Sundays and major holidays.
Boxing For Health provides a well-equipped space designed to facilitate effective training in various disciplines. While specific details regarding the quantity of equipment are not explicitly provided, the gym offers rentals and sales for essential boxing equipment such as gloves and hand wraps, ensuring that participants have access to the necessary gear. The layout is intended to support a range of activities, from individual bag work to group classes and boot camp sessions. The gym's functional design aims to maximize the training experience for all members.
Training Programs and Classes
Boxing For Health features a diverse range of training programs designed to cater to different fitness goals and experience levels. Classes are one hour in length and include:
- Cardio Boxing: A high-energy workout that combines boxing techniques with cardiovascular exercises to improve endurance and burn calories.
- Strength Training: Focuses on building muscle and increasing overall strength through various exercises.
- Boxing Techniques: Provides in-depth instruction on proper boxing form, footwork, and strategy.
- Youth Classes: Tailored programs for kids (ages 7-12) and teens (ages 13-18) that emphasize self-defense, discipline, confidence, and fundamental boxing skills.
Classes incorporate various training methods, including circuit training, calisthenics, plyometrics, and bag work, to provide a well-rounded and challenging workout. The youth program not only teaches boxing skills but also aims to instill valuable life lessons such as discipline and self-assurance.
In addition to the regular class schedule, Boxing For Health offers a 4-week Boot Camp program that runs throughout the year. These intensive sessions are held Monday through Friday, with two time slots available (6:00-7:00 AM or 7:30-8:30 AM). The boot camp curriculum focuses on cardio and strength training alongside boxing techniques, providing a comprehensive fitness experience. The boot camp is priced at $300 per session.
Coaches and Staff
The training at Boxing For Health is led by a team of experienced and dedicated coaches, each bringing their unique expertise to the gym:
- Miguel Lopez: The founder of Boxing For Health and a professional boxer, Miguel provides overall guidance and boxing instruction.
- Wayne Bracy: Specializes in strength training, helping members build a solid foundation of strength and power.
- Henry Beckwith: An instructor with expertise in Taekwondo who teaches morning classes and emphasizes overall fitness.
- Omar McCullough: Focuses on kids and teens classes, as well as martial arts instruction.
- Paris Alexander: Provides training in boxing fundamentals, ensuring a solid foundation for beginners and advanced students alike.
The diverse skill set of the coaching staff allows the gym to offer a well-rounded training program that caters to various interests and fitness goals. The trainers are committed to providing personalized attention and guidance to help each member achieve their full potential.
Atmosphere and Community
Boxing For Health fosters a welcoming and supportive atmosphere where individuals of all backgrounds can come together to pursue their fitness goals. The gym emphasizes camaraderie and mutual encouragement, creating a space where members feel motivated and inspired. The environment is described as one where people are friendly and staff help get people where they need to be. It is noted that the staff push people to achieve their goals, while displaying their love of health.
Pricing and Membership
Boxing For Health offers a variety of membership options to suit different needs and budgets:
- Lightweight: 4 visits per month.
- Middleweight: 8 visits per month.
- Heavyweight: Unlimited visits.
These memberships are available in 1, 3, 6, and 12-month contracts. Youth memberships offer 4, 8, or 12 classes per month.
For those who prefer more flexibility, Boxing For Health also offers drop-in classes for $25 and class passes (10 classes for $230). Open gym access is available with separate pricing.
Boxing For Health is a boxing gym and fitness center located in Oakland, California, founded by professional boxer Miguel Lopez. The gym provides a comprehensive and supportive environment for individuals of all ages and skill levels to improve their fitness, learn boxing techniques, and build confidence through a variety of classes, training programs, and membership options.