In the busy workaday lives of city dwellers, it can be hard to find the time to exercise on a daily basis. Gym memberships can prove prohibitively expensive, and alternatives like yoga classes and the like often prove to crowded for some would-be get-in-shapers.
That's why it's important to have options. Specifically, options found directly in the neighborhood where you reside.
We took the time to compile a brief overview of some locations in West Portal where locals can head to get their heart rates up, and in some cases learn a knew skill.
Enjoy!
Thriveability Yoga
Thriveability Yoga is a small yet comprehensive yoga studio on West Portal Avenue. The center offers a variety of classes and packages in an intimate, 20-person capacity studio. They offer both vinyasa and hatha style classes, as well meditation classes and "PiYo" which is a fusion of Pilates and yoga. They also offer prenatal yoga classes and instruction geared specifically toward seniors. New students can try out three classes in 14 days for $30, and regular rates are $19 a class. Bundled packages are available, and they also offer discounts for seniors and college students with a valid ID.
Pacific Wushu
A Bay Area martial arts school founded over 20 years ago, Pacific Wushu has three locations, and one of them is in the heart of West Portal. At the helm is Master Phillip Wong, who also founded the Stanford University Wushu Club and competed as part of the National US Wushu Team. Classes are offered to both children and adults in the areas of Wushu, Tai Ji Quan, and San Shou (ages 14+)--a form of martial arts similar to kickboxing with full contact sparring and takedowns allowed. Class prices may vary on an individual basis, so it's best to contact them directly through their website.
Back To Sports Fitness And Therapy
Back To Sports is fully equipped, straight forward gym that offers yearly, monthly, or weekend passes. However, their main focus is on providing a space for individuals to work with personal trainers. People are encouraged to sign up to use the space with their trainer if they already one or allow proprietor Darren Badong to work to pair them with the fitness professional that's the best fit. Back To Sports also offers Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine services, so if it's right for you it can be your one stop shop for all your athletic training needs. Prices vary depending on the service, so reach out to them via their website.
West Portal Avenue is also home to a few fitness-related businesses for kids only. The Peek-A-Boo Factory is a large indoor playground and party space that, according to their website, is "designed for parents to allow their children to socialize, learn, and play by creating an environment that emphasizes physical exercise, mental stimulation, and collaborative activities". There's also a branch of Tutu School, which offers ballet classes to youngsters.
