A Walk in the Woods: Hiking to Fitness
A companion to "Taking It Outside: Fresh-Air Fitness Boot Camps"
Instructor Jenny Yamate (right) busts a move with her hiking class.
Photograph by Lane Johnson
A few miles south of Los Gatos, on a slope facing Monterey Bay, Jenny Yamate leads enthusiastic groups of hikers on outdoor fitness walks.
Her “Trail Mix” class meets at 8 a.m. on Saturdays and 6 p.m. on Tuesdays, with Yamate leading the group in a strenuous workout that includes stretches, calisthenics, and cardiovascular training. Participants hike a one-hour loop through the 200-acre Santa Cruz Mountains property owned by Yamate and her husband.
The class is just one of the offerings at Yamate’s Summit Whole Body Fitness, located about a mile from Highway 17 off Summit Road. Yamate’s full-service workout facility is housed in a 1,200-square-foot log building that resembles a rustic barn, with large windows facing west for the Monterey Bay views.
Yamate’s classes attract a clientele who are looking for something other than the typical health club experience. “People don’t mind driving a little longer to get here,” Yamate says. She cites the property’s scenic views and relaxed country atmosphere as the main reasons her clients work out here.
“Trail Mix” costs $10 per class with the first class free. Participants are instructed to bring a small backpack, water, and shoes that can get muddy. For more information or to reserve a spot, phone .
