Ray

Ray was recruited by our coach Ed “the Ironman” Gutierrez a few years ago! The variety of our workouts, training, and classes keeps him coming back 👊 #3rdstreettribe

How did you get into boxing and how did you find yourself at 3rd Street?

“I was looking for ways to mix up my workout routine. I live in the neighborhood, so I would walk by 3rd Street all the time. From time to time, I would see Iron Man Ed outside the gym. He would always say (with his patented smile), ‘hey big man, when are we gonna get you in the ring?!’ We'd laugh and I would keep it moving. One day, I finally decided to take one of his classes. This was almost 3 years ago and I've been hooked ever since.”

What's the best part about boxing? Why do you train?

“The best part of boxing for me is the variety of the workouts, from body weight exercises to kettlebells and dumbbells to heavy bags and sparring. I train to stay sharp physically and it also helps me relax and tune out some of the day-to-day noise we all deal with.”

Any words of advice or encouragement for newbies?

“Beginning may seem daunting, but don't worry! I promise you'll get the hang of it, and everyone at the gym's always willing to help.”

Monica

Monica is right, sometimes just showing up is the hardest part. We love the fact that she walked by one day and saw a class going on, and that renewed her spark for boxing! Now she's one of our regulars! 🥰 #3rdstreettribe

How did you get into boxing and how did you find yourself at 3rd Street?

“Years ago, I used to workout with a group and hitting focus mitts was my favorite part. One day, I walked by 3rd St and watched part of Paul’s Tough Love class doing partner work. It looked hard but it looked fun and I missed hitting things. Soon after, I did my first bootcamp and a few weeks ago I finally joined.”

What's the best part about boxing? Why do you train?

“I train to get out of my head and into a zone for an hour plus. The challenging, hard workouts are as important for my mind as they are for my body. I love the rhythm and dance-like quality of boxing and the intense focus required to try to hit something or someone correctly or to avoid getting hit. It's also really fun!”

Any words of advice or encouragement for newbies?

“Showing up is the hardest part. Don’t compare yourself with anyone but at the same time learn from those who are more advanced. Everyone at 3rd St is trying to improve, just like you are, so don’t be intimidated.”

JR

A lot of folks start up at 3rd Street through our famous boxing Bootcamp, just like JR! 💪#3rdstreettribe

How did you get into boxing and how did you find yourself at 3rd Street?

“My Dad boxed when he was young, and we would watch boxing when I was growing up. I'd box a little during college, but did not start training consistently until I moved to Potrero Hill and discovered a neighborhood boxing gym. I was a little intimidated, at first, but decided to jump into a boot camp. I've been hooked ever since.”

What's the best part about boxing? Why do you train?

“The community is the best part. Everyone is working to improve, and open to working with people at different levels of experience. I train because there is always something new to learn, a new challenge to master—the gym is never boring.”

Any words of advice or encouragement for newbies?

“Don't be afraid to jump right in. The trainers are warm and wonderful, and the beginners' classes are accessible. And don't fret about jumping into a regular class—your classmates remember being a newbie as well, and all are welcome.”