SURFCORE Fitness - Los Angeles (CA)

5 /5 Paul Bellezza: Ive been going to Surfcore Fitness for about two years now, and its hard to overstate what this community has meant to me. Ive been to a lot of gyms in LA over the years and was used to working out alone -- but I realized I missed having people to share the journey with. I came to Surfcore at a point in my life when I knew I needed to make some real changes to my health, and Carlos and Jose were so supportive and encouraging. After my first year, I got a clean bill of health from my doctor, and they genuinely celebrated that with me. Through the six-week challenges and all the day-to-day workouts, Ive learned how to better balance my eating, my fitness, and my mindset. The workouts are tough but fun, and the people are what make it special. Its supportive, hilarious, and full of good energy. Ive made real friends here -- something thats hard to do as an adult in L.A. And honestly, I really appreciate talking both workout shop and sharing the latest tea at Diva Fridays. Sadly, I had to move out of the area and I really miss my routine with the crew. Surfcore had become my third space -- a place between work and home where I felt grounded and be supported by friendly folk. Truly one of a kind.

5 /5 Mark Goya: I highly recommend Surfcore Fitness, especially for anyone who has been hesitant about class-based gyms like I was. Before joining, I always felt intimidated and struggled with sticking to trial periods at places like CrossFit. But Surfcore was different for me, and heres why: Carlos and Jose are fantastic coaches. They do an excellent job of striking a balance between pushing you to lift harder and heavier while also ensuring that youre comfortable with each exercise. For the first six months, they took the time to make sure my wife and I felt comfortable and confident (I had some strength but was really, really out of shape initially), as we gradually increased our frequency from going two to three times a week. After six months, I was offered the chance to join the barbell club, which is optional but highly recommended if you want to get stronger. Prior to joining the club, I had only basic experience with traditional lifts like deadlifts, squats, and bench press, but after completing an eight-week orientation, I can now confidently perform Olympic lifts like power cleans, clean and jerks, and barbell snatches—exercises I once thought were out of reach for me. I appreciate how they pushed me to lift heavier and improve my one-rep max, but they never made me feel pressured to go beyond my comfort zone or risk injury (which I really appreciated since I work in medicine). Their belief in my potential has been incredibly motivating. The community is another standout feature of Surfcore. The people there are supportive, always willing to help with form correction, especially when it comes to barbell movements. It’s a great environment where everyone cheers each other on, which made all the difference for me. Our last day was a few weeks ago (we’ve since moved to Orange County) but my wife and I really miss the camaraderie of the 6 a.m. crew and all the friendly faces we got to know. Even after moving, Carlos and Jose were quick to search for gyms local to our new area that they felt would be a good fit for us to join after we left, showing that they truly care about us continuing our fitness journey outside of Surfcore. Overall, Surfcore has been an amazing experience for us, and I would recommend it to anyone looking to challenge themselves in a supportive, non-intimidating environment.

5 /5 Elisheva Savvateev: If youre looking for a gym that offers both professionalism and inclusivity, look no further than Surfcore! I was a member for a year before I left Los Angeles. From the moment you walk through the door, youre welcomed into a space where everyone—no matter their fitness level or experience—feels supported and motivated. Jose and Carlos are not just incredibly knowledgeable about fitness, but they also have a unique ability to make each person feel seen and appreciated. Their approach is personalized, understanding that everyones journey is different, and they provide tailored programs to meet the needs of individuals with varying abilities. I have had multiple ankle surgeries and back issues, and they made sure to take that into consideration with each workout. They even connected me with a massage therapist who helped improve my mobility and address my back issues from years ago. The gym is more than just a place to work out—its a community. Jose and Carlos have cultivated an environment where people from all walks of life can come together and encourage each other to meet their goals. They truly believe that fitness is for everyone, and they go above and beyond to ensure that every member, no matter their background or ability, has the tools and support they need to succeed. I miss this experience so much and cant wait to stop by for a class again soon when I’m back in town!

5 /5 Natalie: Joining Surfcore Fitness has been one of the most impactful decisions Ive made for both my body and mind! Ive yet to find another HIIT gym in Los Angeles that prioritizes not only real, visible results but also fosters such a warm, supportive community. Ive seen people of all shapes and fitness levels thrive here. While we may show up for the workouts, its the safe, welcoming environment that keeps us coming back day after day. As a woman of color, this space has been especially empowering for me--providing a safe haven as I take control of my fitness journey. The workouts are tough, but the rewards are greater. Many thanks to the consistent guidance and encouragement from the trainers, Carlos and Jose, Ive achieved a level of strength and confidence I never thought possible. Im in the best shape of my life, and I owe it to their passion and commitment. Surfcore isnt just a gym--its a community. From optional beach workouts to group outings and in-house barbell competitions, everything is designed to awaken the strength of the warrior within. Theyve set a new standard for what fitness can look and feel like, and I recommend them to anyone ready to grow from the inside out.

5 /5 Melissa Anne: Surfcore is extraordinary. For me, absolutely life changing. Carlos & Jose are the best role models, theyre healthy, strong, happy, sweet, hilarious and positive. They care about every person who walks through their door. They take health and fitness seriously, while making the process of getting in shape fun. I have never laughed so much and I have never worked so hard. They are very accommodating and will adjust workouts based on personal situations and abilities. My Surfcore Experience: Hopefully not oversharing, but in case anyone is considering Surfcore and is at the same place I was a year ago. I was 54 and accepted getting older. I was in the worst shape of my life, overweight, had back pain, hip pain, shoulder pain, had to catch my breath after going upstairs, even picking up the cat was becoming a struggle. I walked into Surfcore and the whole direction of my life changed. Jose and Carlos believe anyone can be strong and healthy and they will be with you every step of the way. They dont give up, no matter how hard I made it for them. They were so convinced I could do better. After just over a year, Im stronger, healthier, have no back pain, no hip pain, and theres much, much less of me!! The gym atmosphere: Carlos and Jose change lives with their winning formula of hard work, tons of fun and dedication to making each person feel like anything is possible. They have the nicest group of people you will ever meet coming to their gym. Most people have been there for years and it shows. The level of fitness of everyone will motivate you to keep coming. The social aspect is priceless and will help you get through any workout. Youll feel welcome, appreciated and know everyone wants the best for you. The workouts: The workouts are super challenging. Its obvious Carlos and Jose put a lot of thought into creating each workout. Ive never had the same one! Youll feel stronger & happier after each session. Besides the gym, they organize challenges, workouts at the beach, the Culver City Stairs and even put together Spartan Run teams. They truly enjoy when anyone experiences something positive in their life. They celebrated every personal challenge and accomplishment Ive have inside and outside of the gym. I feel like I have my own personal cheering section! Surfcore philosophy: Jose and Carlos want everyone to reach their full potential with regards to health, diet, physical fitness, and happiness. The effort they put into making other people happy, strong and healthy, while making sure they feel welcome and safe is something I appreciate more than I can say.