insanefitness.com

Lots and lots of fitness programs calling themselves boot camp these days. As a Marine, I take exception to anyone screaming boot camp when they have NOTHING to prove they know anything about it.

That said, there are some decent ones in the Atlanta area and some AWESOME ones taught by soldiers and Marines in the United States.

My advice — DO YOUR HOMEWORK

Does it seem like a real boot camp? Is the instructor still certified in one of the 6 certifications that are board certifed? Does the instructor take a personal interest in you and your unique need?

If you answered no to any of these — use caution. A safe effective program does not require you to hurt or to be broken down. Many of the moves used in REAL boot camp are effective exercises — that is why they are used.

But remember, just calling it boot camp does not make it one!!

Fitness classes can be a great cardio option for some people. AND IT IS AS SIMPLE AS THAT!!! SOME PEOPLE. CARDIO.

Do you have a special need? Oh most of us do — back pain, knee issues, bad elbow, hypertension, diabetes, etc

Well only personal training can address unique issues for you!! And fitness classes where you are doing “quasi personal training” — where you are paying for personal training but working out in a group — is still a fitness class. Yes, you may get more attention BUT you are getting NOTHING PERSONAL AND UNIQUE TO YOU.

A properly designed personal training program is unique to you not just something that is meant for the masses. You can go to group fitness classes for free with most gym memberships so why pay extra unless it is PERSONAL AND UNIQUE. Personal training should be designed to correct any issues you may have and to help you meet your goals.

So think about what is the right mix for you. A few sessions with a personal trainer might make more sense than going to a fitness class a million times. Although if all you are looking for is some cardio, fitness classes can be a great motivator so again — make it the right thing for YOU