About Fitness Boot Camps
Boot camps have become a popular exercise method for losing weight and getting in shape quickly. Trainers push participants to work harder and faster. Exercises include pushups, lunges, squats, jumping and running. Community centers, parks and gyms frequently offer boot camp sessions. DVDs are also available.
Fitness boot camps have become much more common in recent years as a fast and effective way to lose weight and get in shape. They have popped up in gyms, community centers and parks everywhere. There are even many boot camp DVD workouts available on the market.
What to expect?
- The workout will start with a full body warm up to get your muscles and joints ready and prevent injury. The instructor will then take you through a series of strength exercises for your whole body. The difficulty level will increase until you reach circuits that are moderately difficult for the very fit to extremely difficult for those just starting. Squats, pushups, lunges, high knees, jumping jacks and running are common exercises.
- Boot camps rely on body resistance and explosive movements for results, and are not dependant on equipment, though resistance bands or kettle bells may be used. Nontraditional items may be used to increase strength and endurance. These may include pulling items with a rope or carrying tires or buckets filled with water.
- The boot camp workout will end with a cool down session of lower intensity exercise. This will be followed by stretching. Trainers often give motivation about what a great job participants did and encouragement about their progress.
Who can participate?
Boot camps are not just for the hardcore. Many areas offer boot camps specifically designed for beginners, seniors or even overweight people. Most activities can be modified until you are able to perform them correctly, though the trainer will likely push you very hard.
What are the benefits of boot camp?
Many people enjoy the drill sergeant style of the instructor pushing them to do their best and work harder. Boot camps can bring about rapid weight loss and fitness increases. People report becoming stronger, faster and feeling healthier quickly. Boot camps, like most exercise programs, can help you have more energy and sleep better.