First Timer: Trying Barry's Bootcamp

The term "boot camp" can conjure some not so pleasant images. Running in the sand in the rain? Rope climbing? Obstacle courses? A drill sergeant yelling at you to "get down and give me 20" when you're exhausted? Well, a class at Barry's Bootcamp is nothing like that.

Yes, it's an intense workout, and yes, a lot is expected of you, but it's also fun!

Barry's says you'll burn 1,000 calories in an hour. So, even though I was a first-timer, and a little scared, that got me pumped.

Boot camp focuses on high-intensity cardio matched with strength training. The class is divided into two parts: treadmill running and strength training using elastic resistance bands or weights. Both are tough, but the way the class is structured keeps you from totally wiping out from exhaustion. You run for 10 minutes, work your muscles for 10 minutes and repeat.

The best part, for me, was the running. Now, I'm not a runner at all, but at Barry's I ran the fastest I've ever run. That's because the program focuses on interval training. You run at a medium pace for two minutes, a fast pace for one minute, a medium pace with a high incline for a minute, and then a one-minute cool-down. And then repeat. You don't get too tired, and running at intervals actually makes the time go by.

Barry's has been running boot camps since 1998, and has a ton of fans. While that may not convince you to work your butt off for an hour, trust me, you'll feel different, lighter and better. And a little sore, too.

HELPFUL HINTS

First Timer tips from instructor Natalie Raitano

1. Move at your own pace. Even though you may be able to keep up with the class, you don’t have to. Go at a slower speed, take breaks or modify any of the weights if you need to. A lot of first-timers realize they are doing more than they thought they were capable of!

2. Have a positive attitude: The term “boot camp” can be intimidating, but the instructors push you for a reason, because you can make your body do what they ask of you. 

3. Get outside your comfort zone: Try to up your speed on the treadmill beyond your comfort zone. But also listen to your body to avoid injury.