Introduction

These days, boot camp fitness classes are all the rage, and for good reason. You can get a great workout in a short period of time, and it’s all programmed for you ahead of time – all you have to do is show up!

Boot camp classes are incredibly popular, and many people are signing up left and right without giving it a second thought. But, on the flip side, many others are nervous about signing up for one, often because they do not think they are “in shape” enough or will not be able to keep up.

Whichever camp you fall into, it never hurts to do your research and learn more about what to expect before heading to your first class.

Read on to learn about five of the most important things you need to know before you sign up for a boot camp fitness class.

1. Every Class is Different

First things first, it is important to note that every boot camp fitness class is different. If you have heard horror stories from friends or family members about a particular class being too difficult, remember that that does not mean every class will be that way.

You might not be able to find out ahead of time what the specific workout will be. But, you can do some research into a particular fitness studio and find out what kind of equipment they typically use and the types of exercises that are included.

Some fitness studios and gyms even post clips of workouts on social media, so you can search there to see if you a class seems to be a good fit.

2. You Don’t Need Special Gear

In most cases, no special equipment is required to attend a boot camp class. If there is, the studio will usually make note of it on the calendar, so you w ill not need to worry about being unprepared.

You will be just fine wearing regular workout clothes – although, if the class takes place outdoors, you will want to make sure you are dressed for the weather. As far as shoes go, you can simply wear a comfortable, supportive pair of running or cross-training shoes – there is no need to overthink it.

3. Hydration is Essential

One of the most important things you can do before heading to a boot camp fitness class (or any workout class, for that matter) is to make sure you are well hydrated.

It is common to sweat a lot during these classes, so drinking plenty of water beforehand will help you avoid getting dehydrated or feeling too weak during your workout.

That being said, you do not want to drink too much water right before your workout – this can cause you to feel uncomfortably full and make the workout difficult. Try to drink one or two cups of water about two hours before your workout, then another about 15-20 minutes before your class starts.

Keep a full water bottle on hand, too, so that you can rehydrate as needed throughout the workout. You might also want to add some sea salt and lemon juice to your water to help replenish electrolytes and promote better absorption.

4. You Shouldn’t Push Through Injuries

The name implies a certain level of intensity, but there is no need to treat your body like you are actually in a military training programme. If you start feeling pain during a boot camp class, take a break. And, if you have an injury that seems to linger, take some time off to let it heal – there is no penalty for letting your body recover.

Some of the most common injuries that come up in boot camp classes include ankle sprains, runner’s knee, and rotator cuff tears. All of these can often be treated with rest and hot-cold contrast therapy for injuries. If you notice signs of these injuries, take some time off to let them heal, and you will be able to get back to the workouts before you know it.

5. It’s Okay to be Uncomfortable

Finally, remember that it is okay to feel uncomfortable during your first class. You may feel awkward and embarrassed if you can not do a particular exercise, but keep in mind that everybody in that room was a beginner at some point.

Remember, too, that most people aren’t going to be paying any attention to you – they will be too busy focusing on their own workout. Go in, do what works for you, and focus on getting better with each workout. You will feel like a seasoned pro in no time!