Fitness boot camps are diverse exercise programs that are led by an instructor and are modeled after military-style training camps. They are a growing trend and, according to the American College of Sports Medicine, boot camps are the eighth leading fitness trend for 2011. The fitness approach of the boot camp depends on your instructor; however, most boot camps are situated outside in a group setting. Consult with your health care provider before joining a fitness boot camp.
Formats
Some fitness boot camps are conducted over a specified period of weeks, while others are conducted throughout the year. If you are a beginner, or if you are very overweight, it is best to find a class that is geared toward your needs, states the American Council on Exercise. Your class structure depends on the preferences of your instructor, but most classes generally are an hour long. Typically, a class will begin with stretching and flexibility exercises and then integrate alternating strength training and cardio exercises. Instructors may incorporate outside structures such as hills or stairs into the workout. Essentially, fitness boot camps are designed to improve your aerobic fitness, muscular strength and flexibility as quickly as possible.
Motivation
A fitness boot camp program's group approach to exercise takes advantage of the built-in motivation most people have to work together as a group for a common goal. During fitness boot camp, participants are encouraged to give the classes a 100 percent effort. This encouragement helps the participants to become aware of how hard other class members are working. Watching others work hard is an incentive for you to work hard as well. Often, because of the personality of your instructor, you will be motivated to do your best to please him. Classes that are held for a set number of weeks allow participants to complete goals they set at the beginning of the class.
Benefits
Fitness boot camps are a growing fitness trend because they offer many benefits. The results of a study conducted at the University of Wisconsin,LaCrosse were published by the American Council on Exercise. The study was conducted on six men and six women, ages 19 to 29. The participants burned an average of 400 calories while engaging in a 40-minute boot camp-style workout. They also kept their heart rate at an average of 77 percent sub-maximal, which is considered moderate aerobic exercise. Aerobic exercise helps to strengthen your heart and improves your lung capacity. It also helps to regulate your blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
Warning
Before joining a fitness boot camp, be sure to check the credentials of the instructor. You should look for an instructor who is a nationally certified fitness professional. Also, observe a boot camp session before you decide to participate. Different instructors have different styles and personalities, and you want to select an instructor who fits your preferences.
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