Traqade
Are you tired of the same old routine workout? Are you looking to try something different this summer? If yes, boot camp training is for you. It provides you with the opportunity to work on both your strength, endurance, and agility. The armed forces are experimenting with changes to military fitness regimen by adding yoga and Pilates. Similarly, fitness buffs are signing up for boot camp workouts modelled on old-school military training. But just what is boot camp? And are you up for it and the challenges it offers?
What is fitness boot camp?
Boot camp originally referred to the first stage of military training that raw recruits have to undergo and get through before they are transformed into lean and fit fighting machines. The concept of team effort and camaraderie have been carried over to fitness. Some workouts are very much military-style, some not so much, but all the sessions feature strong encouragement and motivation from the leader. Of course, workouts can vary but generally include a fairly intense mix of strength training and aerobic elements. One workout might stress calisthenics such as pull-ups, push-ups, lunges, and crunches, while another stresses military-style drills and sprints, and some even incorporate martial arts moves. In essence, a boot camp workout is a type of interval training — bursts of intense activity alternated with intervals of lighter activity.
Is boot camp for you?
Fitness boot camps often appeal to individuals looking for a more intense workout. But if you have a strong foundation of strength and aerobic training, you’re probably ready. Before you sign up, though, ask how the program is structured and if there are any prerequisites to assess if it will be a good fit for you. It’s also important to let your instructor know if you have health issues or special needs. And be sure to tell your instructor if you have difficulty with a particular exercise. Expert physical trainers are attentive to proper form and technique and can adapt exercises for you. If you are older than age 40, are pregnant, haven’t exercised for some time or have health problems, it’s a good idea to check with your doctor before starting a class.
The classes are tailored for different fitness levels, generally by splitting the participants into different groups. The groups usually start and finish together, so friends can meet up before and after. Classes are held in parks or on sports fields. The session is led by an instructor who will escort you round the route. The sessions usually last an hour, with a warm up, a run, a strength and cardio section, and a cool down. The workout can involve a mini-adventure, leading you round the locality and stopping for separate exercises. Instructor styles may vary but it’s all about encouragement and team effort.
Benefits
Boot camps are perfect for spring and summer as they are held outside. You get fresh air, sunshine, and all the morale boosts of being outdoors. You get companionship and to meet new people. They are great for motivation, offer a more challenging and varied workout, require little or no special equipment, and create a sense of camaraderie among the participants. The running elements get the scenery changing, while the strength and cardio parts work on all round fitness. You will definitely be sweaty, maybe even muddy, but you will also have fun!
Look for fitness centres near you that offer boot camp workouts training and enroll yourself into an intensely fun fitness regimen!
