As a restaurant reviewer for Tel Aviv City, I get to eat lots of really great food here in Tel Aviv. I love my job, but all that -- ahem-- reviewing, did mean that I’ve gained some weight, especially in my middle.

I generally associate boot camps with barracks and screaming commanders but the concept of outdoor classes that pushed me to a total workout was appealing. Also, I hate sweating and definitely wanted to try a class that would push me towards the limits of my comfort zone.

FIT:TLV meets every morning at 7am and every evening at 7pm Sunday-Thursday. Classes are outdoors, at Gan Haatzmaut near the Metzitzim Beach. The view is gorgeous and the ocean breeze helps keep you going during a challenging workout.

Shira (full disclosure: Shira is my younger and more physically accomplished sister) breaks classes down into three categories: upper body, lower body, and full body. The first class I took was a lower body workout. In the course of an hour, she took us through a cardio circuit and several strength training exercises that made use of staircases, a fountain, a grassy knoll, and a running trail. By the end of the hour, my calves, thighs, glutes, and other muscles I don’t have names for were quivering. I was sweaty and exhausted-- it was great. My second class focused on the upper body (my weakness) and used mats, park benches, a street lamp, another running trail, and the same grassy knoll. The third class I took was a whole body workout: my arms, legs, core were all targeted and toned. Classes end with some deep stretching and a feeling of elated relief.

Boot camp for YOUR bod

Shira is very encouraging and very personal.  She knows how to get you to do that ONE last push up. She will also make sure to know what your personal goals are, whether it’s to train for a triathlon or to lose a few dress sizes, and to follow up. One participant in my class had an old knee injury, and Shira modified this student’s workout to keep her knee safe.

After three classes with FIT:TLV, I started to notice physical improvements. I’m feeling more awake during the day, and I sleep better at night. I’m more able to make my way through the entire class without pausing. Most importantly, I’m really happy with the way  my clothes (and bikinis) are looking and fitting. Be prepared to sweat and be sore the next day, but you will love the results!

Owner Shira Berger is a National Association of Sports Medicine certified trainer and assistant trainer, Adar Sultan, has been certified through the Wingate Institute.


 FIT:TLV

 Address: Gan Haatzmaut (close to Hilton)
 Phone: 052-3993-004
 email: Shira@fit-tlv.co.il

 Schedule: Sunday- Thursday: 7am and 7pm