It’s high-intensity HIIT training at its most challenging. It’s good enough for US Marines and can help YOU get in shape in record time too
Although the term Bootcamp is inspired by military-style training, over the years, the notion of intensive training programs has spread to the world of sports, academia, and business. A Bootcamp fitness regime involves intense and intensive exercises to help you get in good physical shape in a very short time. The same is true in the field of academic and professional training when you undergo a short course of in-depth study for a specific qualification.
Bootcamp fitness is a type of high-intensity interval training (HIIT), much like an extreme version of CrossFit. Unlike CrossFit, which involves training with equipment like dumbbells, kettlebells, balls, elastic bands, ropes etc., Bootcamp Fitness works with your body weight and surroundings. Expect to do squats, push-ups, sit-ups, lunges, burpees, etc., with the occasional addition of weights and many repetitions designed to work on strength, cardio and endurance in a full-body workout in a short amount of time. The intensity of Bootcamp training can be adjusted to suit different fitness levels and aims to improve overall fitness so that you get in shape and stay in shape.
Classes are led by an instructor who, like a military sergeant, guides the groups of about twenty ‘recruits’ around a circuit that includes jumping, climbing, running, partner exercises, obstacle and agility courses, as well as the traditional series of squats and burpees. After each circuit, there’s a short interval or break for a quick rest before going back around again – intensity, intensity, intensity! All under the watchful eye and verbal whip of a certified trainer. Most sessions last an hour and are available in two levels: basic, a less demanding circuit for people with low fitness levels and advanced, for people in good physical shape.
Whilst these workouts are not aimed at losing weight, you can expect to burn upwards of 800 calories in each session. It is an aerobic sport that accelerates blood flow and improves lung capacity and resistance. It also strengthens, tones and firms muscles, ligaments and tendons: improving flexibility by up to 40%. Bootcamp classes are also a great way to meet new people and make new friends. They improve concentration, release stress and anxiety, and literally and psychologically help overcome obstacles. An important tip is to eat before and after a Bootcamp fitness session.
