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Local Boot Camp Fitness Can Help You Set New Goals For A New You In 2018
BY KENYA WOODARD Sentinel Feature Writer
The New Year means set- ting new goals, including get- ting in shape.
But before you plunker down money to join a fancy gym, consider a fun alterna- tive: bootcamps.
A full-body strengthening and conditioning workout that can incorporate crunches, pull-ups, lunges, and drills, boot camps offer flexibility for those who want to get in shape, but don’t want the commitment of a gym membership.
Locally, personal trainers are hosting boot camps that are as varied as the fitness levels of the participants.
Whether military style, cardio-focused, indoors, or at a local park, there’s a wide range of boot camps from which to choose, said per- sonal trainer, Alisha West.
West, who runs a week- end bootcamp in MacFarlane Park, said bootcamps can offer a great workout that goes beyond the one-hour meeting.
“I actually bring out the weights and teach you rou- tines that you can do at the gym or at home,” she said. “For some individuals, it’s the only way they are active.”
Another benefit of boot camps is that maintaining a workout regimen can be eas-
Personal trainers, Alisha West and Devin Smith can give you personalized boot camp training.
Setting New Year Fitness Goals
Looking to lose some weight or get in shape for the New Year? Here’s some ad- vice to help you start your fit- ness regimen:
Set a goal. Whether it’s to trim down or bulk up, it’s important to know why you’re starting the journey.
Write your goals down. Committing your goals to paper increases the chances that you’ll actually do what it takes to achieve them.
Keep a fitness log. Make sure you jot down every workout so that you can track your progress.
Want to get into boot camp fitness? Join Alisha West at 9 a. m. on Saturdays and Sundays at MacFarlane Park, 1700 N. MacDill Ave., in Tampa. Or check out Devin Smith at Explosive Perform- ance Gym, 1635 N. Tampa St., in Tampa.
ier when working out with a group, West said.
Group fitness helps build a sense of community where members bond over their fit- ness journeys and become ac- countability partners, she said.
“You’re motivated by the individuals around you,” she said. “It’s great vibes and good energy.”
Although boot camps are generally open to all fitness levels, it can be a lot for those who have not been physically active for a long period of time, said personal trainer, Devin Smith.
“People who don’t have a long workout history, it may not be the best way to start,” he said. “But if you’re some-
one who’s been working out, it’s a great way to train.”
Smith, who operates a weekly indoor boot camp, said his clients like the cama- raderie that comes with group fitness.
“You’re able to work out with those who are in the same boat as you,” he said.
To find the right boot
camp workout for you, pay at- tention to the trainer’s energy and workout style, West said.
“One of the things I try to focus on is consistent energy,” she said. “So if there’re two people there, my vibe is going tobethesameasifitwas10.”
The most important rule? “Have fun,” she said.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2017 FLORIDA SENTINEL BULLETIN PUBLISHED EVERY TUESDAY AND FRIDAY PAGE 9-A