Ascend Body

Do you need to get your sh*t together? Are you tired of feeling tired? Or just want a fun group of people to hang out with? or just like to get your ass kicked at the gym?
If you answered yes to any of these questions then definitely go check out Ascend and their awesome staff!
I went at the end of last year because I just needed some accountability and some help with food choices. Shane and the team at Ascend helped me do just that. It’s tough when you live in the city and your life is going a mile a minute. It’s challenging to make good choices and continue to make them even when you aren’t at the gym. Ascend will empower to make good choices in three ways:
1. They give you good nutrition info. For some of us, we know what we should be eating but just don’t have the time to make good choices or maybe it’s all a little fuzzy. They will give you great nutrition guidelines that are simple to follow. You don’t have to overhaul your entire diet at once… they don’t expect you to go Paleo all at once. Instead they give you the info you need to start looking at what you put in your body in a different way.
2. They give you good workouts. I was recently on a trip for 3 weeks … that’s a while to be away from they gym. The team there was awesome and gave me a workout that didn’t require any equipment so it could be done in my hotel room etc. The small group classes are super fun!!! Go to Steven’s class! They are different every time so it stays interesting. The best part about the classes is that they are all functional and really keep you engaged both physically and mentally. No sitting around doing endless reps of some lame exercise. My favorite was towing people around on blankets while trying to sprint!
3. They provide a community of like minded people. The team at Ascend will support you with whatever goals or issues you may have. I had some issues with my hips while there and Steven worked with me to give me specific stretches to increase hip flexibility. They want you to succeed. The team at Ascend just has a good soul. Lots of gyms just want your money. Shane wants to help you be your best self!!!
Ascend is really more than a gym… It’s a tool to help you live a better life through nutrition and self care.

My experience at Ascend was better than I could ever have imagined. I was a runner and outdoor enthusiast for many years, but was hesitant to join a gym even though I was not feeling as strong or fit as I wanted with my previous exercise routine. I was a complete newbie to lifting weights and doing lunges (and squats and push-​ups and… you get the idea). Steven patiently gave me the support and friendly instruction I needed to improve my form, fitness, and happiness. I always looked forward to going to work-​out and can’t sing enough praises about the community of positivity at Ascend.

I have been working out at Ascend for close to a year now. Without a doubt this is the best fitness experience I’ve had to date. From the moment I met Shane, I felt at home and cared about. He spent a lot of time talking to me and helping me to set realistic expectations for fitness… not just focused on the physical but looking at it from a very holistic approach.
Immediately I began working with Finn. I don’t know where to begin. Finn’s passion for what he does and his nurturing personality motivate me to work hard and learn more and more each session. Even though I take the semi private classes, Finn focuses on everyone in the class with great attention to detail. He makes adjustments to accommodate each of us at all times. It’s obvious that he loves what he does. The experience goes beyond just getting stronger, as he takes the time to explain why we are doing the balancing, stretching etc… and how it applies to the way we use our bodies in every day life. His interest in each of us is endearing. I’ve never felt so in touch with my body and how it moves before working with him. I am in the best shape I’ve been in 20 years. I look forward to a New Year of learning and working with the incredible team at Ascend.

Ascend Body has been a game changer in not only my physical fitness but my overall health. I started working with Shane to received personalized training to help release trauma and bring more structural balance to my body. My scoliosis and posture have improved dramatically and my movement patterns have progressed beyond my expectation. This has had a huge impact on my general sense of wellbeing and emotional balance as well. Now I also train with Leslie and Finn. It’s great to feel supported in a community environment and have the support of various trainers all bringing something unique to my training. Leslie is great with improving my form, especially with Olympic lifting, and Finn does incredible work with assisted stretching to open up my range of motion and deepen body awareness. I also receive transformational bodywork from Shane, Bryan and Mark which have all been a huge support in helping my body reset itself in the healing process. A final piece to my health puzzle is working with Rick, a Functional Medicine Practitioner. Through lab tests he’s helping me dial in my nutrition and receive proper supplementation so I can fuel my body in the most effective way possible. This is helping with digestion and dental issues and heavy metal detox. The Ascend Body team truly integrates all of my healthcare needs. Whether you want support with your physical workout, nutrition or top notch bodywork Ascend is an incredible community to check out. Everyone on staff is very approachable and very generous with offering their expertise to help you realize your goals.

When I moved to San Francisco, I was looking for a fitness center that would understand my needs about loosing fat that I had gained during my bulk up phase, help me become stronger and flexible, and prepare a nutrition plan. Nutrition is one of the areas I have always struggled with and I was excited to find a place, such as, Ascend Body — where they not only focus on fitness but also on nutrition, mindfulness and restoration of the body. It is the ultimate «holistic» studio. The space has a positive vibe. They have towels, water fountain, fruits, nuts, tea and shower, for their members. After talking with the owner, Shane, I was convinced that this is the right place for me to jumpstart my healthy lifestyle. I signed up for their Boost Training Program. After changes to my diet and regular workouts, I lost 10 pounds of fat in one month. That was a great motivating factor for me to stay on the healthy lifestyle course. I did learn a lot about right form, balance, and what foods are good for me. I am very conscious when I am grocery shopping. I have to say that all the trainers are very knowledgeable. It’s more of a supportive community structure than the other gyms out there. They truly care about your wellbeing and I am lucky to have found Ascend.

An ad for Ascend popped up in my Facebook feed a few months back. After years of early morning runs and exercises, I’d been feeling pretty unmotivated and my body and energy were showing it. I went in for the one-​month special and ended up signing up for 6 months! I do the unlimited Boost classes 4x week. I’m now on month 3 of my 6, and loving it! From the first time I walked in – you’ve not seen a more chill, serene, yet wholly functional place! — to the staff — everybody, and I mean everybody, knows your name and welcomes you each visit — to the ever changing and challenging routines… it’s all a wonderful package. But by far the coolest is their mantra: breathe, sweat, smile. I like to push myself, but my main approach is sustainability. The way I know I’m going to stick to a routine is, can I come back day after day, week after week? Can my exercise regiment be, in fact, a way of life and not a phase or some sort of torture that I run from? At Ascend, I feel I’m in a community of folks who care about well-​being, and oh yeah they all happen to look and feel their best as well, because wouldn’t you know it, it’s all related — mind, body, soul. I’m so happy I’ve found a community that keeps me fit and energized, in a way that’s approachable but challenging, and sustainable and fun! Woohoo Ascend!

I’ve known Shane for 2 years now. And although I am not the best at taking care of myself (the usual: busy life, work, travel, etc.), I always feel welcome at Ascend and am never criticized for my inconstancy. They always meet you where you are, whether you’re a skilled body builder or you’re someone such as myself who thinks that getting up in the morning counts as exercise:)
The thing I love MOST about Ascend is Shane’s very thorough approach to cleansing. He does a group cleanse several times a year that is so comprehensive and so holistic; the cleanse even includes how to clear your living and work spaces and why that’s important in the cleansing process. You’re provided with recipes, shopping lists, and everything you could possibly need for a cleanse… AND the cleanse can be tailored to you! I am a vegetarian, so Shane gave me a separate cleanse guide just for me.
Ascend is a fantastic comprehensive, whole-​body, health care facility with lots of well-​trained and loving people! As I always say, you get what you pay for. But in this case, you get more.

I just recently completed a month long challenge with Ascend Body which included small group training classes, nutritional guidance, peer support, and an introduction to holistic lifestyle seminar. My life is changed. Not only have I lost weight, I understand at a deeper level nutrition, food as fuel, and am just generally more happy and not struggling with my food choices anymore.
I love the trainers there, especially Steven who always has a smile on and watches and corrects our form which so many trainers don’t care about nowadays. The atmosphere at the studio is so welcoming and the skyline of the city while I work out is just icing on the cake. Glad I found this on ClassPass, and very happy I signed up with Ascend.

I had seen Ascend Body ads on FB for several months, and finally decided it was time to get into better shape. I originally signed up for the «Boost your Body» classes for a 3 week period to try it out. Not only did I get 3 sessions per week, but they also provided several pages of recipes to try and a nutrition consultation.
After my 3 weeks was over, I had seen a difference in my body and was feeling better overall, so I decided to join for a year. I’ve been consistently coming here now at least 3 times a week and have really seen and felt a change in my body and the way I feel.
All the trainers are very supportive and give great direction. The classes change periodically to give you a full body workout. Shane, Steven, Ryan and Leslie have all been very inspirational and supportive throughout the process.
Not only am I feeling and looking better, but I recently had routine blood work done. I have had problems with high cholesterol for several years, and have now seen it drop 52 points and is almost down where it should be for the first time in years.
I highly recommend this gym!

I’ve been working out at Ascend for almost a year now — earlier this year I started working out with Finn Deerheart two times a week in the semi-​private training. It’s usually up to 4 people in these types of classes — but it feels like it’s just you, as Finn is very attentive to form. I’ve learned so much about my body and things that are improving and things I need to work on from him. Not only are you sweating — you are increasing your balance, working on injuries and preventing them! I’ve just increased to three Semi-​Private training classes a week in August and am looking forward to working more on form, toning and losing those extra pounds with Finn! Check him out!

The facilities are great. Everything is clean and well maintained. I especially appreciate that they provide towels and water, as well as a shower.
Ryan and Steven are both great trainers. They’re knowledgeable and attentive. They really care that you understand the proper forms and take care of yourself inside as well as outside of class.

I have been going to Ascend for the past 3 months and have really enjoyed my experience. The entire staff is friendly and caring and Ascend has a number of great trainers and classes.
I train with Steven and highly recommend him. He has been awesome to work with. He really caters his workouts to your level and focuses on all aspects of fitness: form, nutrition, flexibility, strength, etc. I have seen a ton of improvement in just a couple months.

This gym/​atmosphere has completely changed my life.
I have been struggling for the past 4 years with «baby weight».
I tried everything; which included a personal trainer at the JCC, a few Pilates classes (3), a high intensity cardio Pilates class (2 yrs.), a nutriotionalist (lost 4 lbs. in 3 months).
And then I found Ascend. Come to find out… all I really needed was someone to politely kick my ass in the gym 2 – 3 times a week. Enter Jess Hess!
My new philosophy is that I have to fight for my physical well-​being and Ascend is my battle ring.

With a wedding 5 months away & a stubborn post-​baby belly that wasn’t going anywhere, I needed a consistent and effective workout program that would get me in shape quickly. I started semi-​private training 2x week with Jess back in October and continued with Finn, and both have been so supportive on my journey to becoming stronger & happier, while dropping the «L» from flabulous! I’ve come to immensely enjoy working out at Ascend — — I don’t have too much time to sneak away from work & baby responsibilities so it was really important that each minute of every session counted… and it did. Jess and Finn have always made sure I move through each exercise with intention and purpose & the right amount of burn. The wedding may have come and gone but I can’t wait for my next workout at Ascend!

I’m living my best life ever at age 32 thanks to Finn!
Context: I’m not a «big» guy so wasn’t looking for a plan to lose weight. I just wanted to FEEL BETTER and get MORE CAPABLE.
With Finn’s guidance, I’ve overhauled my nutrition, improved my range of motion and flexibility and developed core strength that has helped improve my performance in other forms of exercise I really enjoy (running, SoulCycle, dancing).
In addition to benefitting from personal training, Finn’s advice (and amazing way of communicating it) has helped me better understand my own neuromuscular connections and helped me maximize the impact of even basic exercises. Who knew doing high kicks could be the best ab workout of your life if you just do them right?!
I’m practicing greater self care, getting stronger and feeling better about it every day thanks to Finn and the team at Ascend Body!

Ascend Body has changed the way I look at fitness! It’s about going beyond an exercise program to achieve a physical goal. The trainers encourage you to connect all aspects of exercise and nutrition, as well as shows you how your mind contributes to your overall physical and mental well being.
Yes, the workouts really kick your butt! However, I appreciate how the trainers meet you at your fitness level and engage you in developing proper form and technique while challenging you at the right moment. Plantar fasciitis hindered me from being active for the last three years causing me to spiral into a way of life that was not healthy both physically and mentally. After working with the Ascend team for the last few months, the heel pain I was feeling has gone away and I am back to running again! More importantly, I have learned how strength training, nutrition, and mindfulness go hand in hand to achieve a state of balance.
One of my favorite sessions at Ascend is the UPLIFT class. This is more of a workout for your mind. I have learned how our thoughts reflect how we carry ourselves physically. Finn teaches techniques and exercises to help you shift beliefs and redirect them into a more positive direction. I can definitely feel how this has changed «my walk and talk,» so to speak. This class provides you with tools to tie all the work you do to change physically and align that with your mind.
The Ascend Team is a welcoming and encouraging community. Ascend Body creates a culture to ensure that you reach your fitness goals, but also guides you to create a sustainable practice in overall health. You can really see this reflected in every trainer you meet. This is what I believe is different from former training programs in which I have participated. If you are looking for a holistic and balanced approach to health and wellness, this is the place to go. It’s AWESOME!

For those of you who *want* to go to the gym but absolutely *hate* going to the gym… This is the gym for you! Take one step inside and see for yourself, the space is beautiful, it’s handsomely equipped, the vibe is perfect and the coaches are on point.
Since November I’ve been regularly attending the Body Boost program with Leslie and it’s been a super fun and totally positive journey so far. I really like the small group aspect of the training which allows Leslie to give each of us her personal attention and instruction, making sure our foundations are solid and our technique is perfect. Having small groups to work with, it’s easy for Leslie to whip up all kinds of butt-​kicking workouts, we never know what’s in store for us and that definitely keeps it interesting and fun for sure. On any given day we might be doing body weight and free weight or kettle bell exercises, or we may be using the TRX or Bosu balls, some days we do Tabata workouts and some days we do a combination all of these things and then some! What’s also great is the fact that most of these exercises are easy to replicate on my own, making it easy do at home if I can’t make it to class. One thing is for sure though, no matter the work out, I am always leaving Ascend out of breath, sweating like a beast, feeling stronger and wanting more!
So if you’re like me and super not into the typical gym scene with all that fluorescent lighting, rows and rows of drones zoning out on Ellipticals and the crazy buff dude grunting and sweating all over the place next to you, come check out Ascend. The space is über clean, it’s beautifully lit and totally inviting, the classes are affordable and as a classy touch there is always hot water for tea and snacks available for after your workout. The staff is absolutely amazing too, so whether you’re looking for a one on one personal trainer, small group or bigger group sessions, all the instructors are easy going, knowledgable and most of all, motivating!
5 stars for sure, no matter what your skill level is, I would highly recommend coming to Ascend for high energy work outs that produce results!

This is a GREAT GYM! I went to ascend gym today just to check it out and I have to say it really stands out over any other gym I’ve ever been too.
The energy of this place is very relaxing, clean with many knowledgable people who know a lot about health, fitness, and spirituality. Everyone was extremely friendly and welcoming when I walked in. They also had free coffee, tea, and snacks for people who come in just as a cute little touch. I really love this place and will definitely come back again!

The Door Opener:
Back in September 2014, I noticed an ad for a 21-​day workout program (Body Boost) at a local studio (at a more than a reasonable introductory price of $ 54!). I quickly began my research on the place (Ascend Body) via their website and Facebook and decided to just «give it a shot». (This has been my M. O, then I bail after a while).
My First Day:
Nervous and apprehensive, I entered the place and quickly took a seat on the couch. I sat there and fiddled with my phone and tried to take it all in and wondered if it was going to hurt. Then, all of sudden, Jess (Trainer) appears and so we jump into session 1 (as a group). Well, needless to say, yes, it hurt, but it was different. I felt pretty good and her approach was easy going from the start. She asked to know about any injuries or areas of concern. She put us through the paces but there was not any boot camp style pressure or rhetoric. She kept an eye out and provided feedback on form and then at the end, gave us some «atta boys» and we were off on our way until the next time.
My Ongoing Experience (Current Date: January 20, 2015):
After the first 21 days, I made a commitment for 6 months. I have continued on with Body Boost and via the program I have learned a lot about making changes in lifestyle as well as making some great strides and because of all of this I am/​I have:
* Learning how to eat good healthier foods (at the right times)
* Made a commitment to myself and am holding myself accountable
* Sleeping better
* Have gained muscle and lost inches and my body still continues to change. I can see it in the mirror and I get occasional feedback from folks that see me intermittently.
* Have gained an extreme amount of stamina, strength, flexibility and self-​confidence.
* Lastly, and I think most important, this places is nourishing my overall mind, body and soul. This is a great place with a built in support system as well as one where you will find community. The trainers along with Shane (owner) are all very knowledgeable, kind, patient and caring. Shout-​outs to Jess, Leslie, Steve and Finn!
If you are ready to set some goals and find a place that will be completely supportive and motivating – Ascend is your place!!!

What an impact Shane and Ascend have made on my life. I first started working with Shane in 2010 after leaving a difficult job with a difficult commute. I had pretty much stopped moving, and my life revolved around sitting, driving, and sleeping. Oh, and pasta and wine also. I knew I needed to do something.
Going to Shane was more than just going to exercise, it was about learning the proper way to exercise, learning which movements worked, and which did not. He gently corrected a lot of very bad tendencies, and pushed me to push myself. My workouts were completely catered to me and what my body needed. On top of all that, he’s genuinely a nice guy.
Next came the diet. And I was very stubborn on this one– my dog doesn’t like his treats taken away, and neither do I. But I learned a lot about how the types of foods that I eat influence my body. I’m certainly not perfect today, but 4 years later, I can say without hesitation that Shane helped to change the way I eat. Pasta used to be a staple of my diet, now I only purchase it on very rare special occasions. I have a rice cooker that works overtime to keep me nourished along with a lot more veggies. And I love it.
I would never show a before and after picture… ever. But let’s just say when I started with Shane, I was moving very slowly and intimidated by the work. A year later, I was doing 115# dead lifts, and I had the confidence to sign up for my first big bike ride– 545 miles from SF to LA. And I completed it!
I’m currently taking a morning group class at Ascend with trainers Leslie and Jess. And while I’m not really a morning person, it’s an amazing way to start the day. Plus my exercise is done early. Both Leslie and Jess share the same approach to training that I first learned with Shane, so it’s just a continuation of all that I started to learn a few years back. I’d definitely recommend this to anyone looking to test the waters.
Personal training, massage, nutrition consultations– what else do you need? I’m still hesitant to do a 30-​day cleanse with them, but Shane keeps asking. Maybe someday…