You can’t turn around without running into another book, video, or pill that promises to whip you into shape. One recent trend that may be more than just a fad is the concept of the fitness boot camp. Designed primarily for women, these camps are designed to take people out of their normal routines and put them under the supervision of trainers who will put them through vigorous workouts for three or four weeks. So what else is involved?
You can’t turn around without running into another book, video, or pill that promises to whip you into shape. Half the time, the product is just another fitness fad that does little and costs a lot. One recent trend that may be more than just a fad, however, is the concept of the fitness boot camp. Designed primarily for women, these camps are designed to take people out of their normal routines and put them under the supervision of trainers who will put them through vigorous workouts for three or four weeks. So what else is involved?
While there may be some that include accommodations and meals, a fitness boot camp isn’t like going on The Biggest Loser. It’s simply another way to workout. Instead of going to the gym each day, you go to camp. You are led through an intense workout for an hour or so and then you go back home. This continues for as long as the camp lasts, which is usually a couple of weeks to a month. Benefits include working out in a group environment, having immediate positive feedback and motivation, and getting to understand what an intense workout is all about.
The last point is an important one. Many people find themselves bored with going to the gym after a couple of weeks and they lose motivation when they see the scale isn’t budging. Overlooking for a moment that most weight loss is going to come from a change in diet, many people simply don’t work out hard enough. They go to the gym, get on a treadmill or a bike, and they go through the motions. You don’t have to dedicate your life to working out to get in shape, but you do have to push yourself when you are working out. A fitness boot camp can show you the difference between a real workout and what you’ve been doing on your own.
Each boot camp is different, but most of them combine cardio and strength training, using the elements and outdoor equipment to design the workout. While the training is necessarily intense, it is designed with the beginner in mind. These camps are for those looking to lose weight, not compete in the Olympics. Don’t be afraid to try one just because you’re out of shape. Most of the people in your class will be out of shape as well.
