Team Tufunga Training - El Cerrito, California

Sherry Sarintra

I’ve been a member of Tufunga for 3+ years, and it’s been an amazing experience, journey in fitness and personal growth. There is a variety of equipment and no lines compared to other gyms in the area. The staff is friendly and helpful especially Peter who has been my personal trainer for most of the time I've been a member even helping me to get ready for several bodybuilding shows. His consistency, eye for fun programming and enthusiasm is unmatched and he has played an important role in my journey especially. The morning gym atmosphere is motivating and supportive and definitely people you need to get to know if you can get yourself up at that 5/6am time!

MaryJane Pauley

My daughter recommended Team Tufunga training to me when I started looking for a good local gym and all of her positive comments were spot on. This place is full of equipment which is great but the best part is the people. Pete and Simi could not be more friendly and supportive in helping you reach your goals. I love the community feel and the good vibes and always look forward to my workouts.

Elissa Roy

I have been with Team Tufunga for almost ten years. I love their motto: "Find Strength Here" I've been with Tufunga through breakups, job changes, the pandemic... Best investment I ever made. What hooked me at first is what keeps me coming back. The owners are a family who practice incredible fitness. They are people of color who make the space feel welcoming to everyone. I have seen people of all ages, sizes, and any other difference in Team Tufunga 's gym.

While it is a "no frills" gym in some senses, it's also got everything you need for a good workout. If you're having trouble finding something, Simi and Pete are really friendly and will help you out.

Other things I love: The trainers work with people of all levels. The equipment is regularly updated. I feel inspired every time I go and I have never had a mean word/dig said to me, even though I miss weeks or months in the gym some times (not proud but also keep getting back up again!). Never wildly crowded, always good music on. Very positive community feel.

As a woman I can say my experience has been that this is an awesome place to feel safe, accepted, and supported to Find Strength Here.

I'm super grateful to Simi, Pete and all the Team Tufunga family for keeping this amazing community-centric space awesome!

Katye Roa

Team Tufunga was recommend to me by a friend and I am so happy I found it! It is a great local gym with a nice variety of machines, free weights and cardio equipment. I have been doing personal training with Pete for a while and with his support, have been reaching my goals - his is very knowledgeable! The community here is something I haven’t found at other gyms.

Hosnia Quraishi

Team Tufunga stands out as the worst gym in the entire Bay Area. My experience with Simi, the owner and lead trainer, was incredibly unpleasant. Despite purchasing a bundle of 60 sessions worth over $3000, I've only managed to complete 20. Simi frequently missed scheduled sessions with various excuses, and when I asked for a refund for the unused sessions, he not only refused but also unexpectedly added a $60 monthly gym membership fee, never previously discussed during my purchase two years ago. The gym itself is dark, grimy, and the equipment is old and unsanitary. I strongly advise against choosing this gym; City Sport or 24 Hour Fitness are much better options.

Drew Southern

I’ve known Simi for 20 years, and simply put he’s one of the most thoughtful and considerate trainers out there. He knows his stuff, he’s clearly an expert, but more than that, he cares about people and goes above and beyond with his gym and his personal services.

At Team Tufunga you don’t just get a gym with a bunch of weights. You get a community, you get support, you get a positive atmosphere that will help you reach that next level- you get a gym family.

Thank you Simi for everything you do! If you’re reading this and you’re on the fence, go for it. Walk in that gym and change your life for the better.

Brad Phelps

This is the only legit gym in the Bay Area! This gym is way better than city sports and 24 hours fitness. It’s never too crowded, and it has way more of a selection of gym equipment. Simi is always very helpful and friendly if you ever have any questions.

Pat Azi

Making the switch from the always crowded El Cerrito 24 Hour Fitness to Team Tufunga has been nothing short of a revelation for me. What sets Team Tufunga apart isn't just its comprehensive array of equipment or its ambiance—it's the way this gym merges top-tier fitness facilities with a warm, community-oriented spirit.

At my previous gym, peak hours felt like navigating through a maze, with each turn leading to another line for equipment. However, Team Tufunga operates on a different wavelength. Here, the luxury of space and accessibility to equipment, even during traditionally busy times, transforms your workout from a rushed, stressful affair into a focused, productive session.

The heartbeat of Team Tufunga is undoubtedly its owner, Simi. His approachability and depth of knowledge in fitness not only inspire but also create a learning environment where members, regardless of their fitness journey stage, feel supported. Whether you're a beginner looking to build a foundation or a professional bodybuilder on the road to an IFBB show, Simi and Team Tufunga offer personalized training packages tailored to your goals.

But what truly elevates Team Tufunga above a mere place to work out is its vibrant community spirit. The gym fosters a sense of belonging, offering members the chance to engage in community events like the annual Halloween party. This blend of independence in training with the option to engage in collective activities provides a unique, dual experience. You're not just joining a gym; you're becoming part of a community that celebrates fitness and well-being together.

In conclusion, transitioning to Team Tufunga has been the most rewarding fitness decision I've made in years. This gym is not just a hidden gem; it's a sanctuary for those seeking a balance between achieving their fitness goals and finding a sense of community. At Team Tufunga, you're always welcome, and the opportunities for growth, both personal and physical, are boundless.