Have you ever considered joining a fitness boot camp? They’re all the rage right now, especially ones that mix a variety of different fitness techniques, like Crossfit or classes that combine flexibility-boosting exercises like Pilates or yoga with strength-building exercises like weight-lifting or cardio exercises like cycling or kickboxing. No matter which boot camp you decide to go with, there are several aspects to consider before and during your boot camp: Come Prepared Two water bottles? Check. Towel? Check. Proper running shoes? Check. Comfortable, moisture-wicking clothes? Check. Protein bar? Check. All of these items should be mandatory for anyone getting started in a boot camp program because safety is the biggest concern and if you don’t have enough water to stay hydrated or quality shoes to run in, then you could be putting yourself at risk for injury. It’s also important to eat a small meal beforehand so you don’t feel dizzy while exercising on an empty stomach (a simple protein bar would be perfect). Find a Good Instructor An excellent boot camp instructor is crucial for each participant’s success. If you have a lazy, boring, under-qualified instructor, then you’re not going to have fun or see too many results. Checking Yelp reviews before signing up can be really helpful, and if the best instructors’ boot camps are out of your price range, then check a daily deals site like Groupon or Living Social for huge discounts on health and fitness programs, or check SumoCoupon for fitness-related gear and program discounts. Keep a Progress Journal The best way to track your progress, remember exercises (so you can do them on your own later), and stay motivated is to keep a progress journal. You may want to include your measurements for each entry (weight, waist, arms, etc.) and record what exercises you did that day. Including information about what food you’re eating can also help you count calories and reduce your intake in certain food groups after seeing what and how much you’re consuming on a daily basis. Over time, you’ll probably notice those measurements decreasing, which will only boost your motivation to try harder! Improve Results with Healthy Eating Exercise is only part of the equation to healthy living. Whether your main goal is to lose weight, get in shape, build muscle mass, or boost your energy levels, even the most intense boot camp workouts can only do so much. Adding protein to your diet during your boot camp training can be enormously helpful. Add more red meats, fish, beans, and/or tofu to your regular meals or buy some protein powder and make protein shakes at home before your workout. Cutting back on junk food is also crucial for anyone who wants to see some serious results. As you can see, boot camps are not mere fitness programs; they’re lifestyle changers. Stick with It! Boot camps aren’t intended to be long-term training programs. They’re designed for people who want a head start on their fitness and weight loss goals, usually […]
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