Is the Boot Camp Workout Right for You?

The boot camp workout in general focuses on building endurance and strength. This workout is not exactly done with a drill sergeant, but it is based loosely on old-school military training. It is challenging and includes using a variety of different forms of exercise to get you into shape.

Understanding a Boot Camp Workout

While this type of workout will vary, they all have a few things in common: they are intense and they mix up aerobic elements with strength training. Calisthenics is involved in pretty much all boot camp workouts. This workout is really a type of interval training.

Boot Camp Workout Benefits

The obvious benefit is a total body workout and building endurance and strength. However, there are other benefits that may cause you to want to try this type of exercise regimen. First, for many styles of boot camp workouts, you do not need any special equipment. Your body is all you need. Second, the workout is challenging and varied. However, a beginner could do this and work their way up, but at the same time an avid exerciser could find this type of workout a great challenge. Third, you can workout with others and help to push each other. It is easy to make this a group exercise plan, or you can go it alone if you prefer.

Is a Boot Camp Workout for Me?

This type of workout, when taught by an instructor, is generally geared for those with some physical fitness. If you live a sedentary lifestyle, this could be quite difficult to get into. Before diving in, talk to the instructor and ask about whether they think you could do well starting out before raising your fitness level first.

If you are pregnant, over 40 or have any medical conditions, talk to your health care provider before starting a boot camp workout. Also, let your instructor know of any medical conditions you have. They can often help you with things like technique and form to help prevent injury.

If you are overweight, a boot camp workout is an excellent and effective way to lose weight. On average, this type of workout burns about 9.8 calories for every minute you are working out. However, extra weight can make you more prone to injury and other medical issues, so be sure to talk to your doctor before starting to get some tips and to make sure you are healthy enough for this intense of a program. Also, talk to your instructor and get some tips and help from him or her.

Resources

Military.com: Avoid the Gym by Using Calisthenics