Finding a outdoor group bootcamp that is right for you...

26 Nov 2012

Tags: bootcamp brisbane, bootcamp melbourne, bootcamp sydney, group fitness brisbane, group fitness melbourne, group fitness sydney, melbourne bootcamp, sydney bootcamp,

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The term bootcamp now is so common that we seem to have forgotten its origins. Back in the day bootcamp was where newly enrolled soldiers were sent to get the training and level of fitness required to go into battle. These days it is used to describe any size group of people exercising in a park or on a beach. Yet the variation in training methods, styles and quality of service can vary massively.

So if you are thinking about training with a bootcamp what should you look for?

1. Try before you buy?
Does the bootcamp / group offer you the ability to do a trial before you commit serious money? If not then make sure you negotiate one. After all, how will you know if you are going to like it, and more importantly trust the people running it. Make sure the trial lasts for at least a week so you can get a feel for how the training fits in to your schedule. This will help you create a training habit too.

2. Flexibility
Find out how the program works, what the training options are on different days and how many sessions you have to commit to and how long they last for. Will you be allowed to pause your membership if something crops up in your life

3. Variety
Variety is the spice of life, it also keeps your body and mind challenged and increases the rate at which you will get fitter and provides a more rounded balanced health and wellbeing. So make sure the bootcamp offers lots of different session types, with a mix of strength, cardio and flexibility, oh and some fun for good measure

4. Reputation
What is other peoples experiences of the group? Are they registered with Fitness Australia? Are they covered for insurance? Are they qualified? Find out. Ask for a testimonial or get a current client to give you a call. Ask to see their registration documents. Any trainer worth their salt will be qualified, insured and have a First Aid and CPR certificate.

5. Community
During your trial you should get a feel for the group dynamic. Make sure you are comfortable with it and that the rest of the group are welcoming and fun. A group with a soul and some community spirit will make all the difference. The power of training in a group that supports and motivates each other is second to none.

6. Accountability
Again, during your trial test out the level of care you get from the trainers. Are you just a number to them? Another bootcamper in the default bootcamp t-shirt? Do the trainers authentically care about you and your goals? Do they communicate with you outside of the sessions to get feedback, set goals, support you and motivate you when needed?

If you find a bootcamp / group that provides all this then you are going to have a great time getting fit and healthy and living a life you love.