High-end fitness camps no longer engage in Army Sergeant Training-style training. This is a good thing because the term “boot camp” has intimidated more than it suggested.
The name “Bootcamp” itself depicts an unfriendly, uncompromising, competitive, do-or-die attitude that will repel the faint of heart. These are groups where participants get caught up in the competitive spirit and exercise too much to the point of vomiting or worse. The end result is that you have passed the pain tolerance test and have done very little for the proper progression of the exercise. The risk outweighs the benefits.
As the group exercise trend evolves, there are more alternatives that make more sense. While it is good for a boot camp operator to offer all body weight exercises so equipment and setup expenses are not required, the theme is limited. Participants value diversity and value learning about the many different fitness tools or “games” that can motivate them.
My groups of all ages and conditioning levels especially enjoy the TRX Suspension Training Straps attached to the top that allow one to advance or undo the difficulty depending on the position of the stance. Obstacle courses with mini-hurdles, agility ladders, Bosu balance trainers, and cone drills can be performed not only by more conditioned athletes, but also by seniors seeking to improve balance and gait.
While the first boot camps took on an outdoors theme, some are offered indoors in the same variety. Many people enjoy the convenience and continuity, while the outdoors offers an element of unpredictability with the weather. With limitations, I knew there was an outdoor training camp in Minnesota that ran year-round and in the snow. Much like the “polar bear” club of cold-water swimmers, rough weather makes it a distinct highlight for those who pride themselves on being able to “beat it.”
The term “fitness boot camp” is being used not only for group boot camps, but also for Biggest Loser’s new live residential weight loss programs. Most of these live fitness programs offer no-wait services as well.
Regardless of the topic, the group environment generates a level of enthusiasm through the multi-person nature of the group. The magic number according to the operators of the boot camp is at least 8 people to feel that electricity. The support and camaraderie will carry the group along with very little coaching. Commitment is high because of the accountability one feels towards the group. No one wants to miss a class, and if they do, they will be missed and heard. Everyone is looking forward to being there and acknowledging you as part of the group and that means you are likely to get involved in more training.
Fitness camps provide individual and group personal training. In this way, the client gets focused weight training technical instruction and personal evaluation. Group coaching enables the client to develop a sense of the ability to hold their own and the confidence of knowing they can pace themselves to get through it. The proverbial bar is always raised a little higher.
So there in short. a Fitness camp And training camp are the same thing. However, no two are alike. Even with the same coach and location, the variety is endless. Thus, you can do more exercise by spreading more work over more parts of the body and changing it. That’s why obese and out-of-fit customers can stay active and burn more calories for longer.
Fit Camps are here to stay, so find the right camp for you and welcome to the group!
