Friday, February 16, 2007

Ten things to consider before you enlist in an exercise boot camp:

1. Trial run. Will you really be able to wake up and work out at oh-dark-thirty? Do you have what it takes for a cold-weather workout? Find out if the boot camp offers a free demo or low-cost trial membership that will allow you to try before you buy. Test-drive the prog ram to determine if it realistically fits your routine, schedule and lifestyle.

2. Baby, it's cold outside. Some boot camps go indoors when the temperature dips below freezing. Others are outdoors no matter what. Others shut down during winter. Make sure you know the weather policy and indoor/outdoor locations before you sign on the dotted line.

3. Dress for success. Frigid temps, snowdrifts and cold winds. Exercising outdoors in cold weather means having the right stuff: hat, gloves, head and neck coverage, and lots of layers to keep you warm. Indoor winter workouts can get stuffy and warm and require lighter clothing. Rainy days mean rain gear. Dress for the season and the elements.

4. BYOW. A water bottle is a must. Maybe two. Unlike health clubs, outdoor boot camps meet in parks and parking lots and won't have a water fountain or juice bar at the ready. A towel is also a good idea, especially on your first day on the ground. If there's any other specific equipment required, the boot camp should notify you in advance.

5. Footwear. If you were wearing Keds the last time you exercised seriously, it's time to go shoe shopping. As most boot camps are a mixture of cardio (walking or running) and strength building, you want a shoe that can accommodate both types of exercises. Cross trainers are good, or running shoes for programs that feature long runs or walks.

6. Speak up before you sign up. If you have a trick knee, bad back, rotator-cuff issues or any other ailment that might come into play when exercising, let your coach know. Your instructor should be aware of your condition before you begin the program and be able to offer exercise modifications if necessary.

7. Walk before you run. People sign up for a boot camp when they're ready to get serious about their workouts. But just because your mind is gung-ho, it doesn't mean your body is ready, willing or able. If you haven't worked out in a while, it's best to start slow. Push yourself too hard in the first week, and you're more likely to get an injury that will have you watching from the sidelines.

8. Don't use that tone with me. Motivation comes in different forms and flavors; what works for some people doesn't work for others. If you don't want negative attention or don't like the idea of a spittle-spewing drill sergeant barking orders, make sure you know in advance what kind of class you're signing up for. As any mother will tell you: It's not what you say, it's how you say it.

9. Results-oriented? You will probably feel results (increased strength and stamina) before you see them. Remember, you didn't get out of shape overnight, which means you won't get back into shape overnight. Give it time. You can expect to feel -- and possibly see -- results after the first month.

10. Are you going to eat that? Working out is just part of a healthy lifestyle. A balanced diet is another component. Many of today's boot camps offer nutritional guidance. Don't hesitate to inquire.

-- Wendi Kaufman