Boot camp fitness training is a mainstream type of exercise that involves high-intensity interval training, strength sessions and cardio. Based on military-style exercises, the boot camp exercise will push your body to its limits, burn fat and lean muscle as well as workout in a group setting that challenges and motivates you.
Despite being a fitness beginner or a person willing to shake up your workout, boot camp classes provide a complete, full-body exercise that can provide you with real-life results.
What Is Boot Camp Fitness?
Boot camp fitness training is an intense group physical training involving a combination of cardiovascular conditioning and strength training both. It is usually held in the open or in a big indoor area and directed by a qualified fitness trainer.
The idea is to replicate the rigor and format of military training and render it enjoyable and palatable to the non-military population. You will go through push-ups, burpees, lunges, sprints, and other exercises using body weight and sometimes with minimal rest between exercises.
Key Features of a Boot Camp Workout
Group Setting
Boot camps normally occur in a group of 10-30 individuals. This grouping aspect enhances responsibility and establishes a community.
High-Intensity Intervals
Exercises are organized in a series of intervals, i.e., strenuous sessions with brief intervals. This type of format will assist in burning the maximum number of calories and increase the metabolism.
Full-Body Focus
Boot camp exercises are geared towards a whole-body workout. A combination of cardio and resistance exercise will target all the major muscle groups.
Minimal Equipment
There is not a lot of equipment used in most boot camps. When there is equipment involved, it is usually easy things, such as resistance bands, medicine balls, or kettlebells.
Types of Exercises You Can Do
Workouts at boot camps differ depending on the trainer and the location but the following are some exercises that are usually used:
Bodyweight Movements
- Push-ups
- Squats
- Lunges
- Planks
Cardio Drills
- Sprints
- Jumping jacks
- Mountain climbers
- High knees.
Strength Training
- Dumbbell presses
- Kettlebell swings
- Medicine ball slams
- Resistance band rows.
Core Work
- Russian twists
- Bicycle crunches
- Leg raises.
Side planks
They tend to perform these exercises as circuits, stations, timed to maintain the intensity and energy.
Advantages of Boot Camp Training
Burns Calories Fast
Boot camp exercises are intense and this implies that you will consume massive calories within a limited time. It is perfect when one wants to lose fat.
Grows Strong and Develops Stamina
Strength combined with cardio enables you to build muscle and increase your heart rate fitness.
Time-Efficient
Classes are not longer than 45-60 minutes, and a busy schedule can accommodate them without difficulties.
Great for Mental Health
Group environment and physical tasks can elevate your morale, alleviate pressure and increase confidence.
Keeps You Accountable
The group environment makes you turn up regularly and put greater effort than you would individually.
Who Should Try Boot Camp?
Beginners
Most boot camps provide variations to beginners. You do not need to be in excellent shape but you are going to be progressing and not perfecting.
Intermediate to Extensive Exercisers
In case you are already active and you feel like taking it to the next level, boot camp provides a difficult training setting in enhancing strength and conditioning.
Individuals Who Like Organizing Workouts
- Boot camp is a good place to work in case you are a social person who enjoys motivation. It is ideal for theperson who does not like working out alone in the gym but rather on the guided classes.
- Staff members should speak with their doctor prior to adopting a novel workout regimen in the event that they possess any health issues or injuries.
How to Prepare for a Boot Camp Class
Wear the Right Gear
Athletic shoes that are supportive and comfortable workouts are necessary. You can be running, jumping about and all over.
Bring Water
Hydration plays a major role particularly in high intensity workouts.
Eat a Light Meal
A pre-class protein and carbs snack of about 60-90 minutes will give your fitness a push.
Arrive Early
Arrive to the class several minutes early to register and warm up and see your instructor.
Listen to Your Body
It is not a problem to take a break or change exercises. Work hard, but do not overdo it.
Common Myths About Boot Camp
“It’s Only for Super Fit People”
Not true! Most of the classes are moderate and beginner-friendly.
“It’s Like Military Training”
Most of the boot camps are not as intimidating as they are inspired by military training. It is encouragement, not yelling on the part of the instructors.
“You Need Equipment”
Bodyweight-based exercises comprise most of the exercises. Any kind of equipment involved is generally easy to use and not advanced.
“You’ll Get Bulky”
Boot camp will make you gain lean muscle, not to gain bulky muscles. It is perfect in terms of toning and in general conditioning.