NYC Personal Trainer Explains 7 Ways to Safely Participate in Boot Camp Workouts

As a NYC Personal Trainer for over a decade, I have seen and experienced the evolution of fitness; the fitness fads and trends. Functional training, Hip Hops Abs, Zumba, Bosu Training, Kettle Bell Training, Kickboxing and Boxing are a few on the trendy fitness list. Few fitness trends make it on the permanent fitness and health list. Boot camps workouts is another extremely popular workout style. Boot camp workouts have been a popular way to get in-shape. Is it here to stay? The idea of the "Boot Camp Workouts" originated from the military during the recruit training phase. The objective is to get the recruit in tip top shape ready for battle. The two major reasons why the boot camp workout is so popular are that they are a no-fills total immersion inexpensive workout; an easy way to getting you into amazing condition and losing fat fast. So basically the boot camp workout gives a "bang for your buck!" What will you see in this style of training usually done in parks all over the US? A lot of running, jumping, push-ups, and agility work. Unfortunately because of the high intensity training many who participate are prone to injury if they are de-conditioned. Before being a NYC personal trainer, thinking that going to extremes with workouts was the best way to get into shape. After acquiring my certification as a NYC personal trainer I now understand that it is not the best way. The following are 7 ways to safely participate in a boot camp style workout lowering your chances of injury: 1. Be honest. Tell the complete truth when answering all of the questions on the fitness and health assessment form. This form gives the instructor helpful information. Overlooking or glossing over a question such as your age and fitness level may be a detriment in the near future when your personal trainer starts training you; giving your workouts based on how you had answered one the assessment form. 2. Talk to the instructor beforehand. Communication is important. If you're feeling a lot of pain, speak up. The boot camp instructor will adjust the exercise for you. 3. Focus on form. Make sure to not rush through your exercises so you can focus on form. Although you may have spoken to the instructor before the session, your body and safety are your responsibility. Sometimes the groups are large so it can be difficult for the instructor to focus on you at all times. 4. Modify the exercises based on your fitness level. Jog instead of sprint; push-ups on knees instead of military push-ups; squats instead of squat jumps. It's important to work gradually up to an extreme level if you haven't exercised in quite awhile. 5. Warm-up at 5-10 minutes before the boot camp workout starts. This will help increase your heart rate gradually. Joints will be lubricated and muscles warmed, ready for action. 6. Stretch afterwards. Stretching will keep your body flexible preventing tight muscles to lock up, increasing your range of motion and therefore will help prevent from muscular tears and strains. 7. Get plenty of rest. This is where the body starts to repair itself and will become stronger. Without proper rest, the body will become extremely fatigued and is prone to tears, strains, and sprains. Hydrating your body with clean water will also help the recovery and repair process. As a NYC Personal Trainer I understand the popularity of boot camp workouts. The high intensity approach can be super effective if you can avoid injuries throughout the program. Following the 7 safety tips will help you avoid the injuries that will stop you from your fat loss and conditioning goals.