Outdoor Fitness Programs

Finding a Program that Fits Your Personality Will Help You Lose Weight

by Leslie Maltz

Well, here we are, at the beginning of our journey to turn the tide on the years of "less than optimally healthy" behavior. No more excuses. Last month, we told you that we were going to follow several folks as they journey toward their own health goals with the help of Leslie Maltz and Backyard Bootcamp, and, like any responsible person, we wanted to make sure we covered the basics before we start things off. The following are some of the basic things you need to think about before you start a program like this:

PREPARING FOR AN OUTDOOR EXERCISE PROGRAM

COMMIT TO CHANGE In order to prepare for something like Backyard Bootcamp, you really need to be at a point in your life where you are not just ready to change, but are committed to changing something about yourself. There are many things about yourself you could be unhappy with, and making the commitment to changing is the first step.

BALANCE THE MENTAL AND THE PHYSICAL Participating for an outdoor exercise program is just as much mental as it is physical. Taking yourself out of the comfort of a gym environment and throwing yourself onto the dirt and grass can be uncomfortable at the very least. I suggest anyone wishing to participate in an outdoor fitness program either choose a program that they are certain can accommodate their mental obstacles and fears as well as their physical needs.

DO YOUR HOMEWORK! When preparing to take part in any bootcamp program, be sure to do your homework! Not all bootcamps are for the average population, and many are taught by uncertified instructors. Check their certifications, ask questions about their past employment, do your homework. You don't want to end up in the ER because some wannabe drill sergeant didn't know the signs of heat stroke.

GET THE SUPPORT YOU NEED Whatever obstacles you create in your life that keep you from taking the next step toward your fitness goals can be broken down. The process of getting past those obstacles can be difficult, however, if you don't have the support you need. Backyard Bootcamp is a fitness program designed to help you shape your body AND help you conquer fears, obstacles and other self-defeating untruths you may have that keep you from moving forward.

BASIC EQUIPMENT In order to prepare for Backyard Bootcamp, all you need are a pair legs, some good running shoes, a yoga mat, a water bottle and a smile! No previous experience required.

NEXT MONTH: Spotlight on a young Nanny fighting to lose the weight and a middle-aged Mom securing her health for her later years.