In most fitness boot camps, almost everyone starts with an initial goal of fat loss, many of these boot campers verbally agree to change their habits, commit to the program, and begin a supportive eating plan.

Despite lots of proof from successful people that the program works;

Despite the fact that bootcamp is a challenging and fun program;

And despite the fact that most fitness boot camps offer a loving and supportive culture, there are some who do not change their habits.

Why? I have heard many excuses for people not changing:

1. I do not have time. 2. I feel ok, why change? 3. I have other priorities now. 4. I know I need to change my lifestyle but I am not ready yet. 5. I do not feel comfortable doing the fitness boot camp. 6. I do not want to look like an idiot trying to figure out the workouts.

These psychological roadblocks can be overcome with determination and support from family and friends. Many people start a diet and/or exercise program only to find themselves back at square one after just 3 months. Why do some people who are informed about the body changing benefits of starting a boot camp and a supportive eating plan often fail?

Because They Fail to Plan, They Plan to Fail.

Many initiate an exercise program at too high an intensity and then succumb to an injury, which derails their entire program. Others set unreasonable goals and expectations, such as losing 10|twenty or more pounds per month, or getting in shape in 3 weeks. Still others may not consider obstacles in their life-styles, which prevent successful adoption and maintenance of an active way of life.

For example, do you overlook opportunities for working out?

Are you a self-starter or do you need a coach to provide companionship and accountability?

The guidelines below may help you in picking, planning and implementing your fitness bootcamp program:

1. Write down the reasons why YOU want to participate in a bootcamp program.

2. Find a bootcamp you like.

3. Choose a boot camp that is within driving distance (less than a 15 minute drive in rush hour traffic).

4. Make sure the boot camp is taught by a certified fitness professional. The top training certifications are NASM, NSCA, ACSM, and ACE.

5. If you are a beginner, start slow.

6. Boot Camp is a challenging program so set realistic goals. Set a goal of attending camp everyday. That’s it. No performance measures. Just set the goal of showing up every single day. I remember a boot camper, Jennifer, who had just returned after missing 9-months because of pregnancy. She told me her goal was to run faster than the most athletic woman in the entire camp, Monica, someone who had been attending camp multiple times per day for more than 2-years. She tried to pass her on EVERY run despite my warnings to her. She nearly killed herself trying to keep up. But most important, she couldn’t maintain that pace everyday after such a long layoff. She injured herself. Learn from her mistakes.

7. Set realistic deadlines on your goals (i.e. comfortably fit into a size 8 by June).

8. FOCUS. If you miss a few days, just pick it up again. Do not use a lapse as an excuse to quit or allow other demands of life to distract you.

9. Keep a daily diet journal.

10. Workout with a friend.

11. Do NOT use weather as an excuse. All seasons can provide an enjoyable back drop for working out at boot camp. Simply dress as necessary.

12. Reward yourself weekly when you accomplish your goal.

13. Check with your physician before starting a bootcamp program.

14. Be more active ALL day long!

Finally, ask yourself, “how can I achieve my goals and enjoy the process?”

Just Do It!