Best of 2001: Best Place To Punch Dad In The Nose

Doc's Family Boxing/Athletic Fitness Club
702 Broadway, El Cajon
619-448-3551 or 619-579-8004

Sales rep Marco says, "You have access to a ring every day, all day, but first you have to prove yourself responsible and be deemed worthy enough to be in the ring." How does one prove worthy, aside from paying the $579 yearly dues? "You have to take a couple of hour- long classes. Once deemed worthy, members can use the club's headgear, gloves, and other equipment (no charge). Sparring partners are usually available, and personal trainers can be hired for one-on-one tutoring (fees vary). Members also have access to a complete gym with free weights, tension-press machines, and a separate area for women. Fees can be split into monthly $19 payments -- with $79 down (per person) -- automatically debited from a bank or charge account. Cost increases to $24 monthly for old-fashioned "manual billing" through the U.S. post.