Bootcamp classes can be a great addition to your current weight loss workout plans. They use a combination of aerobic and anaerobic exercises and high intensity interval training, or HIIT, to give you a calorie scorching work out that tones your entire body and builds endurance and stamina. Fat loss strength training programs can be enhanced by adding boot camp styled workouts to the mix to help you reach your personal fitness goals faster. Here are five ways to make your bootcamp classes burn:
- Increase the resistance or weight of your anaerobic exercise tools. Natural bodybuilders use this trick in their training programs to build lean muscle and strength gradually. Bootcamp classes will use exercise bands, dumbbells, and kettlebells for many of their intervals. Increase the weight by a few pounds or use a thicker exercise band for added resistance. Resist the urge to go too heavy too soon. You want to feel the burn, not injure yourself!
- Use healthy nutrition to support your training. Healthy lifestyles include healthy nutritional choices. Try new healthy smoothies for beginners to give your body a boost of nutrients to support calorie burn and proper muscle recovery. Try adding a scoop of protein powder to aid in muscle growth and repair.
- Increase your brain power and mental strength for a “can do” attitude. Bootcamp training can help teach you how to train brain power so you build resilience and mental strength. This is important when completing challenging workouts. The individuals with the strongest mental strength keep going when the workouts get tough. They don’t quit when it hurt. They embrace the physical pain for long term benefits. These attributes can carry over into other facets of your life to provide a more confident version of yourself.
- Stay hydrated. Bootcamp classes burn more calories than other more traditional styled fitness classes. Remember to stay on top of your hydration. If you electrolytes get off balanced, you will run out of energy before your workout is over. Cramping, dizziness, and light headedness are all signs of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for modifications of exercises. Not everyone is at the same fitness level in a boot camp class. If you are new to fitness or recovering from injury, don’t be afraid to ask for a modification of workout routine. Bootcamp trainers are familiar with adaptations and can show you a variety of different ways to work the same muscle so that you are receiving the same benefits as the rest of the class. If you are sitting out on too many intervals, you won’t be receiving the benefits of the workout. If you need modifications but don’t ask for them, you risk injury and take away from your overall personal health and fitness.
