Fitness boot camp is the newest type of workout that everyone is talking about.

A fitness boot camp is basically a workout that is run much like a military boot camp. The idea is to push your body beyond its limits and to really workout at a high intensity. Participants are led by a fitness instructor that acts like a drill sergeant, barking orders and pushing them to do more. This type of training may seem harsh, but it gets results and that is why it is such a popular type of exercise.

A fitness boot camp is usually held outdoors. It doesn’t use equipment, except maybe hand weights and a few obstacles. It often involves three to six weeks of classes where you are pushed to complete strenuous workouts at each class. Like the military, you are being trained and your body is being trained.

Discipline is key. You are not allowed to give up and whining is something that is not tolerated. It is all worth it as people report amazing weight loss and fitness gains from fitness boot camp programs. It is going to be intense. Unless you have been in the military or a part of a sports team practice squad, you have never experienced anything like this.

There are many tips and a lot of advice out there that can help you to prepare for a fitness boot camp. Preparation is going to go a long way to helping you get through the boot camp.

Since it is an intense workout you should get clearance from your doctor to participate. Knowing you are in good health and can physically handle the demands of the boot camp is important.

Before leaving for camp, always eat something healthy and have plenty of liquids. Water is the best. You should down as much as you can in the hours before camp so you are properly hydrated. Dehydration can really hurt you during a boot camp. Take water with you too. You will be allowed to drink during the workout.

Eating healthy foods for breakfast or the night before will help get your energy levels up and prepare your body for the workout ahead.

During the boot camp, you will push your body to the limits, but know what your limits are. There is a difference between pain you feel in a working muscle and pain that is bad. You need to know sharp pains are not good. Your muscles may burn, which is fine, but sharp pains or pains in joints mean you need to back off. Think smart and be safe. Your instructor will know when you need to modify moves and when you need to stop.

An ideal fitness boot camp program includes exercises such as push-ups, squats, lunges, partner exercise, team competitions, speed training, core strength, stretching, etc. Also you can find a variety of programs for different individual groups. There are general fitness programs for all and for women there are women only fitness camps. Even kids have their own boot camps to enjoy being active.

As you look forward to burning some calories and finding a fresh new lifestyle, these camps are the best available option. By choosing fitness boot camps, you allow yourself to have an efficient way to exercise as well as ensure a lot of fun going through the process.

Here you get all the motivation as you are with a number of people who share the same interest and attitude toward fitness and a healthy lifestyle. It is certainly challenging and that particular aspect keeps you going. You are with a group of people and that will certainly motivate you to do well and achieve your goals.

Lastly, have fun with your fitness boot camp. Make sure that you have a good time, enjoying the good burn and possibly make new friends. This is not about beating up your body for nothing. Remember that in the end you are going to look and feel better. Keep your eye on the goal and you will get through it. “Failure Is Not An Option.”

Scott Segura is a professionally certified Personal Trainer and Boot Camp Director at Abbeville Snap Fitness. Snap Fitness Spring 3-week Boot Camp begins March 15. Call 893-0009 for more details on getting a jump-start on your “summer body.”