Study Shows Benefits of Boot Camps
Thousands of fitness instructors around the country claim that their boot camp programs can help clients get fit and in shape. But despite the popularity of these programs, there had been little research to answer a basic question: are fitness boot camps effective?
But a study from the American Council on Exercise has answered that question with the answer that a boot camp program can be very effective in helping men and women lose weight and gain muscle mass.
The report looked into the types of exercises that take place at summer weight loss camps and other “boot camp” style programs and the benefits they provide. Six male and six female volunteers underwent testing after doing a treadmill exercise test and then workouts from a boot camp training DVD.
The results showed that during one 40-minute boot camp session, participants on average burned more than 400 calories – a very good amount. From a cardiovascular standpoint, participants in the boot camp program were working out at anywhere from 70 to 91 percent of their heart rate maximums, with these peaks and valleys matching the goals of many fitness boot camps to vary heart rates in order to move between weight loss and muscle gain.
Ultimately, the researchers found that fitness boot camps are an excellent way to get in shape. People looking for overall fitness should look for programs that offer a wide range of cardiovascular and muscle building exercises, while people with more specific workout goals in mind can research programs with a narrower focus.
At Live-in Fitness Enterprise (LIFE), we offer one of the most complete boot camp programs in California. Fitness camp instructors will work with you to help you meet your personal goals, including tailoring individual programs to your needs and abilities. In addition, we will teach you about proper diet and nutrition and give you a game plan for fitness for life.
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