What is a boot camp workout?
Boot camp workouts can vary. They generally include an intense mix of aerobic, strength training and speed components within each class session. One boot camp workout might stress body weight exercises (calisthenics) while another stresses military-style drills.
For the most part, you can expect to do calisthenics, which are pull-ups, pushups, squats, lunges and crunches in addition to drills and sprints. Some include specific resistance or strength training workouts. A boot camp workout is basically a type of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) which by definition is a bursts of intense activity alternated with intervals of lighter activity. A boot camp workout also can include functional fitness, such as using whole-body, multijoint exercises that simulate movements people do in life.
What are the benefits of a boot camp workout?
The goal of a boot camp workout is to provide a whole-body workout that builds strength and aerobic endurance. It offers such things as;
- A more challenging, varied and fun workout
- Require little or no special equipment
- Create a sense of friendship among the participants
Also, because a boot camp workout generally is done at a higher intensity than moderate aerobic activities, the same health benefits apply. This can be achieved in less time than in moderate activities such as walking.
Is a boot camp workout for everybody?
Fitness boot camps appeal to people looking for more intense workouts. Boot camp exercises usually involve ballistic, rapid movements that can be too challenging to those who aren’t already in shape.
If you have a strong foundation of strength and aerobic training, you’re probably ready for boot camp. But before you sign up there are a few things to ask first, ask how the program is structured and if there are any prerequisites to assess whether it will be a good fit for you.
There are some things to think about prior to signing up. If you are older than age 40, are pregnant, inexperienced, haven’t exercised for some time or have certain health conditions, it’s a good idea to check with your doctor before starting a boot camp class.
It’s also important to let your instructor know if you have health issues or special needs. If the movements in the class are new to you, take it slower at first to ensure that the way you are moving is correct. Stop if you get fatigued or tired to the point where your technique is no longer effective and you risk injury. Skilled instructors are attentive to proper form and technique and can adapt exercises for you.
Boot camps; do they deliver results?
Opinions vary of course, but for the most part boot camp workouts have many fans who say this type of workout is great for improving overall strength and conditioning. This type of HIIT also burns more calories in less time compared with moderate aerobic activities. This type of training can also improve your cardiovascular health and fitness. It can also improve the amount of muscle versus fat in your body (body composition) and the rate that you burn calories (metabolism). Resistance or strength training also can improve and control your blood sugar levels. They will also help you control high cholesterol and high blood pressure, and they may help you lose weight.
According to the Mayo clinic; for most healthy adults, the Department of Health and Human Services recommends these exercise guidelines:
- Aerobic activity. Get at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes a week of vigorous aerobic activity, or an equal combination of moderate and vigorous activity. The guidelines suggest that you spread out this exercise during the course of a week. Greater amounts of exercise will provide even greater health benefit. But even small amounts of physical activity are helpful. Being active for short periods of time throughout the day can add up to provide health benefit.
- Strength training. Do strength training exercises for all major muscle groups at least two times a week. Aim to do a single set of each exercise, using a weight or resistance level heavy enough to tire your muscles after about 12 to 15 repetitions.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/boot-camp-workout/art-20046363
I hope this help you decide on signing up for a Boot Camp in your area. Just some things to consider and ask prior to signing up. I want to make sure you are well prepared prior to taking your first class. It is very intensive driven and it is quite a workout. As stated earlier, please consult your doctor if any of the above apply to you. I want to keep my readers safe and I want you to enjoy working out and exercising the right way. If you have any questions or comments don’t hesitate to shoot me an email. I will be glad to answer any questions or help anyone out that I can. Check out my Trainerize App. Go to Trainerize.me and go to the “find a trainer” and put my name or location in. I have some cool workouts for beginners, advance, and I have a lot more inside the App if you want to join. This is how I train people virtually and I have a lot of workouts, exercises, and things I can custom just for you! I don’t do cookie cutter workouts and I custom design the workouts and exercises per clients. Everyone is different and has different goals so their workouts should reflect that.
Thank you for reading my blog, and as always, stay happy and healthy.
Take Care,
Darren
Harmony Shift 