Where to Try the Angels' Favorite Workout in the Bay Area

Photo: Dimitrios Kambouris/ Getty Images

If you follow the sisters Hadid, Adriana Lima, or any of the numerous Victoria's Secret models on Instagram, you know that their killer bodies are products of (1) genetics and (2) boxing. A few years ago, Angels still talked about Pilates, SoulCycle, and barre class, but ever since the brand launched its "Knockout" workout leggings—which, for what it's worth, are quite good—boxing gloves are practically a prerequisite for runway wings.

Some of the Angels' promotional "boxing" videos leading up to the runway show spectacular are downright ridiculous, including the staged match between Elsa Hosk and Martha Hunt, (pictured above), that I thought would devolve into a pillow fight. But most of these ladies look like they could kick some serious ass. And, after boxing for more than two years, I can attest to the fact that weekly boxing classes can relieve stress and change your body.

If you truly want to train like an Angel, you'll need to hit up Gotham Gym or Dogpound in NYC. But for a local taste of the workout of the moment, I've mapped the best boxing gyms in the Bay Area below. Click on the map point for the crucial details on each spot.

The Park Gym. A wonderful spot for beginners because you have to complete at least ten Level 1 classes before graduating to more complicated classes. You'll advance feeling more confident in your skills. Bonus: it's clean and it smells better than most boxing gyms. 

HitFit.  This San Francisco magazine favorite—it won best bootcamp in 2017—has locations in both the Mission and the TenderNob. The spaces are well-maintained, the equipment is shiny and new, and there are LOTS of evening classes with some of the best trainers in the city. (Seriously, go see Troy and Cole.)

3rd Street Boxing Gym. This Dogpatch spot is my romanticized notion of what a boxing gym should be, largely thanks to Rocky. It feels a little old, a little tattered, a little stinky—exactly like a movie. The classes will leave you feeling sore and dripping in sweat.

Hybrid Training SF. Regulars rave about the boxing bootcamp at Hybrid. Instruction is top-notch, and the studio even offers a boxing yoga class. If you're interested in fighting beyond the ring, they also have a number of mixed martial arts classes.

Sobekick. Several of the local models I've worked with hit up this Emeryville boxing gym, so it's perfect if you're looking for that model-approved vibe. Check it out for boxing, kickboxing, self-defense, boot camp, and yoga.

King's Boxing Gym. If you're a super serious boxer in the East Bay, head to King's Boxing Gym in Oakland. It's a no frills spot, so don't expect towels or potpourri. But if you like blood, sweat, and tears, you've found the right place.

Boxing for Health. This place has accomplished some fantastic transformations. While there are coaches on site who are licensed for amateur and professional boxing, this bootcamp-driven gym is aimed at helping clients get fit and healthy. The studio is known for small classes, no judgments, and undeniable results.

Form Boxing. More cardio class than traditional boxing training, the Form workout is split into ten rounds, alternating between punching and calisthenics drills. Form says their boxing model is the sibling of the Empower Concept for mental and physical training that professional athletes use.

Rumble. After months of anticipation, Rumble is finally opening the door to its first Bay Area location this month. The 10-round workout is split between landing punches on an aqua bag and lifting weights.