Gut Check Fitness
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Gut Check Fitness
We are the original outdoor boot camp. Ditch the treadmills and the resistance bands. Enjoy running in the canyons and working out at the beach in the Earth's Biggest Gym. Burn over 1,000 calories in a class, tone muscles, maximize fat loss, and increase your metabolism by actually burning calories even after the workout class is over.

We have a world-class team of instructors, offering high-energy boot camp workouts and positive reinforcement. Join our social network of like-minded individuals that love pushing themselves to the limit. Are you training for a Spartan Race a Tough Mudder a Ragnar, or an ultra-marathon then you have found the right outdoor fitness program.
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Gut Check Fitness was founded in 2006 in San Diego by Joe Decker and his wife, Nicole. They started an affiliate program in 2013, fulfilling their dream of bringing their one-of-a-kind outdoor fitness company to cities around the world.

Joe Decker is recognized as "The Worlds Fittest Man, " an ultra-endurance power athlete, renowned fitness trainer, and syndicated columnist who has helped thousands of women, men, kids and seniors get into shape and lose weight.This outdoor workout format that Joe created is the same that he used to break the Guinness World Records 24-Hour Physical Fitness Challenge in 2000.
They take advantage of San Diego's beauty and bring together a community of some kick a** people. I am a female in my mid 20's and have been with Gut Check for 2 years. I've EXCEEDED my personal fitness goals and have the best time doing it! I have been working out with Gut Check Fitness for over 5 years now, and after trying numerous other gyms and boot camps, I can say this is by far the best in the business!
If you are tired of playing with bouncy balls and rubber bands then come join us. This is not your granny's Prancercise class. Gut Check Fitness was voted "Hardest Workout" by Competitor Magazine. Trailrunner Magazine boasts that we are, "Redefining Hardcore." Coca Cola'sFitness Programs calls our program "hardcore" and one of the most "creative" workouts in the world.
We believe in working hard and playing harder. If you want results and are tired of playing with bouncy balls and rubber bands, come join us. We can promise you will have a blast while getting your butt kicked into shape. Gut Check Fitness has a formula that works. Gut Check Fitness was voted World's best, toughest and most creative workouts.
Gut Check is a common term used generally by those in the military, athletes or extreme sports. When someone says, "Time for a gut check, "it means get ready to find out what you are truly made of. It's about finding that fire that burns in each of us. Gut Check isn't scary it's basically being the best that you can possibly be!
Reviews (24)
David K.
David K.
Dec 07, 2020
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It's been an odd year with gyms closing down and strength training being done at home. It's difficult to find motivation. I started doing zoom Gut Check fitness routines with Joe and Nicole during the Covid shutdowns and instead of drinking and gaining weight, I lost weight, gained strength and endurance and had fun doing it. They typically do zoom meetings live at 6am on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays. I don't really like waking up that early and can't always do them on those days, which works out as you can do these workouts any time and day of the week. They also have in person
Bobby Lipton
Bobby Lipton
Jan 11, 2019
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I joined Gut Check just to get back into shape in my 40's but what I gained was so much more. I joined a whole community of like-minded individuals that enjoyed working out hard. It gave me an appreciation for the outdoors, exploring trails and canyons that I never knew existed. It made me feel unstoppable. Five years later I still love getting that burn in my lungs from pushing myself to the limit. I was out of town traveling for work and I tried Orange Theory for a while. You get a decent workout at Orange Theory but it really doesn't compare to Gut Check. At the end of your workout, you haven
Beth Barrett
Beth Barrett
Jan 06, 2019
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Gut Check is awesome! I have been working out with this group for over 9 years. It’s not easy, but very fulfilling. You definitely will get in shape and get some “buns of steel”. The friendships are lasting, and you will be part of a crazy, and fit family.
Maecie Ireland
Maecie Ireland
Dec 08, 2018
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Gut Check is an empowering addiction. They take advantage of San Diego's beauty and bring together a community of some kick a** people. I am a female in my mid 20's and have been with Gut Check for 2 years. I've EXCEEDED my personal fitness goals and have the best time doing it! LOVE Gut Check Fitness.
Troy Daum
Troy Daum
Nov 03, 2018
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Getting fit is about leading a life of full potential. The world class trainers at Gut Check Fitness will take you to the next level of fitness. All you have to do is show up, and they will help you do the rest.
The classes are challenging without a doubt. Yet they are fun and you are surrounded by like minded people. Your classmates and trainers soon become your friends. Every week something fun is happening at Gut Check. Beach runs, running the canyon at the glider-port, fitness classes and social outings, to name a few.
At 58 years old, I can still run a sub seven minute mile. I am extremely
Mark Lane
Mark Lane
Oct 30, 2018
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Training with Gut Check for the last two years has gotten me in the best shape of my life! I completed my first tri-athalon last year and plan to do more in the future. Joe Decker and the rest of the instructors always push me with challenging workouts. This training will prepare you for everything from spartan races to ultra marathons, all the while experiencing the best canyon runs, trails, and beaches that San Diego has to offer. Did I mention Thursday night Happy trails/Happy Hour? Great training, exploring the outdoors , and of course the friends you’ll make along the way. Can’t beat that
Steve Maybo
Steve Maybo
Aug 18, 2018
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Gut Check Fitness is the best workout in town. Joe, Nicole and their team of fabulous trainers inspire each member to go just beyond their limits and get results regardless of where your current fitness and body shape is at. After nearly 10 years it's been a great experience to workout outdoors with challenging trainers and meet interesting people from all walks of life.
Daniel Lewis
Daniel Lewis
Jul 09, 2018
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Always a high quality workout with a great group of people that push each other to go a little faster and a little further, but don't take themselves too seriously.
Ronald Sisk
Ronald Sisk
Jul 03, 2018
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Gut Check is an excellent workout. You are outside breathing fresh air and being challenged by Joe and his team. No muscle is forgotten when you attend a Gut Check class. Highly Recommend!
Tatiana Vidal
Tatiana Vidal
Jun 17, 2018
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I LOVE GUTCHECK!!! The beauty of training with Gutcheck is that you get to do it with wonderful trainers Joe and Nicole are a handful of inspiration and motivation!!! The tribe and/or the amazing group of people we train with are very fun, and there is always someone at your level of fitness; And last but not least you do it outdoors!!! We get to run, lift rocks, jump on the grass, breathe the clean air, explore trails, run on the beach!!! You are never left behind and you are always pushed to be a better version of yourself!
Wehtahnah Tucker
Wehtahnah Tucker
Jun 16, 2018
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This is the most amazing group of humans dedicated to improving your physical and mental fitness! I'm looking forward to the next round of gut check in 2019.
David M.
David M.
Nov 16, 2017
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The absolute best fitness outfit period. Whether its boot camp style workouts, races, overnight "excursions" or a quick jaunt up a mountain, this team will will motivate you to be your very best. Joe and Nicole don't just talk they definitely walk the walk...It does not get any better than this. Gut Check!!
Carmela C.
Carmela C.
Nov 16, 2017
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If you're tired of your routine in the gym, Gut Check is for you. I joined two months ago and absolutely love the work outs. Every workout is different, its never the same routine and the schedule is very flexible. You are pushed to your limits, its intense but the members & trainers are always encouraging you to do better. More than a workout, it was a lifestyle change for me. Thank you Joe, Nicole, Meg, Mark, Christine, & Hilary! ‍‍
San T.
San T.
Nov 15, 2017
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Gut Check is a kick your butt into gear workout. No fancy equipment, just dumbells, and your sweat and tears. The trainers are awesome and the crew is a special breed of crazies. You will get stronger and faster, just show up and leave it all out there.
Sean B.
Sean B.
Sep 03, 2015
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To be completely honest, Joe and Nicole are some of my good friends...BUT, it didn't start out that way 4-5 years ago. I looked to Joe and Nicole, after researching the Spartan Death Race, which I had recently signed up for, and asked them if they could get me through the race in 6 months. Joe had won the race the previous two years. I just wanted to finish.

Their team is the real deal, and likely the best way of getting fit short of having an expensive team of coach's, nutritionists, and massage therapists. Also, this is not about getting in shape, as in, slimming down. This is about
Marla H.
Marla H.
Mar 18, 2015
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I went to free class and felt so welcome. I loved this class!! Joe and Nicole were amazing, encouraging and helpful. I'm going to continue going. I think I found my new favorite workout!
Stephanie C.
Stephanie C.
Jul 30, 2014
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I have just finished my first month with Gut Check Fitness, and there are so many reasons why they deserve five stars.

First, I was searching for a more intensive boot camp type workout, as I am training for a Spartan Beast this September. My previous trainer was not training anymore, and I hate working out at gyms. She recommended Gut Check, and I started out with a 10 class Groupon. Such a deal! I thoroughly enjoyed each and every workout even though each of them is a grueling hour to hour-and-a-half. It is exactly what I was looking for. Something to push me farther than ever before.
David S.
David S.
Mar 19, 2014
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I have membership to 2 gyms and I still prefer working out with Joe and Nicole. They are awesome. I love waking up early or going after work to the outdoor bootcamps around town. I usually go to the Balboa one on Wednesday and Friday mornings and then the Morley Field one on Tuesday and Thursday nights. Can I get a Gut Check!!!!
Kimberly W.
Kimberly W.
Sep 22, 2013
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I bought a groupon for 5 workouts with gut check fitness. First it was hard to connect up with them via email to even get the specifics about where/when to meet. Supposedly they were always at the same park at the same time. But 2 weeks in a row I showed up and no one else did. Finally I left my punch card with them after a work out. I never got a call to claim it or any word. I just let it go. The workouts were workouts, but not too inspired or interesting.
Fred T.
Fred T.
Sep 01, 2012
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Great instructors, the folks attending are friendly and what I like about it is that it becomes like an extended family over time. Joe, Nicole & Meg do a great job of mixing up the workouts (upper body and lower body), remembering names (which is impressive) and knowing just how hard to push you. All the other regulars are very welcoming and all are there rooting for you and each other. It is definitely part motivation that gets you through some of the workouts. I do the 6am and it is a great feeling for the whole day after the workout.

I started with a Groupon and saw how much benefit
Julie L.
Julie L.
Nov 18, 2011
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Before I started Gutcheck, I was NOT the bootcamp type of person. I didn't even like working with personal trainers because I preferred to do what I wanted at my own pace. When I heard about Gutcheck, it sounded like a horrible idea to me! Brutal workouts running through the canyon with some military dude??? No way. Meanwhile, I'd been getting really frustrated and bored with the gym. I wanted to spend more time outside, but being in the middle of winter, I didn't feel safe just going for a run by myself in the dark. And since my friend was so pleased with Gutcheck, I thought what
Cherry M.
Cherry M.
Jul 02, 2010
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Unfortunately, I'm no longer travelling to San Diego and will miss out on this great class. But for you guys who are *thinking* about it, hopefully this review will get you going!

I joined Gut Check Fitness Bootcamp last month to help train for my Kilimanjaro climb in September. I usually made it to class 3 days a week and the results were fabulous. When I first joined, my mile time was 7 minutes, 50 seconds. Four weeks later, I dropped my mile time to 7 minutes, 14 seconds. I also noticed that I wasn't nearly as sore after big summit hikes like Half Dome.

Joe Decker is an amazing
Sonya S.
Sonya S.
Apr 11, 2010
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I bought a Groupon to get five bootcamp classes and I survived my fourth so I decided to celebrate with my first Yelp review!

Why I like it:
1) I could never get a work out like this on my own. The mix of cardio, strength, and just plain belligerent challenge is beyond the realm of my imagination. They don't call it bootcamp for nothing.
2) Joe is a very motivational and dynamic trainer. He and Nicole have great attitudes and push you but only as far as you can go. They do most of the workout with you and spend the rest of the time cheering you on.
3) Even without the Groupon, this is good
Amar K.
Amar K.
Mar 30, 2010
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Gut Check Fitness is one of hardest routine. I started this course with my own doubts. I was NOT sure if I will be able to complete the routine.
After first week, I realized that not only can I do it, but it definitely making me more fit. Best thing I like about this course is that it is outside. Joe adds lot of variety which keeps it interesting for every class.