Q. When I think of "Boot Camp," I think of drill instructors screaming and yelling at recruits. Is this what I should expect?

A. No. We are not here to scream at or humiliate our Boot Campers. However, you can expect our team to verbally encourage and motivate you. That sounds like "come on, you can do it" or "pick it up" or the ever present "no walking". It does not involve expletives or insults. We’re here to increase your fitness, not decrease your self-esteem! We'll also make sure to correct your form during exercise so that you can get as safe and efficient work out as possible.

Q. What should I bring to my workout?

A. Remember, this is an outdoor workout in a range of weather conditions. Your clothing should be comfortable and suitable for lying in the grass, mud and anything else nature has to offer. Synthetic wicking materials are ideal (but not required) during hot spring and summer months. Layering clothing is the best approach for cold weather workouts. In all cases, wear clothes you don’t mind getting messed up.

Hydration is critical to your fitness and performance. Boot Campers are encouraged to bring a water bottle. A towel is also a good idea to have following boot camp. This will help you dry off and can be placed on top of your car seat after a great workout.

You will also be required to bring your diet/exercise log and name badge. But you’ll learn more about that once you report to camp!

Q. I haven’t worked out in a long time. Will I fit in?

A. Absolutely. Boot Camps are comprised of people of all fitness levels. If you are already fit, Boot Camp can help you get to the next level. If you have not exercised in a long time (or ever) Boot Camp can help you develop reach your own personal goals. You will not be "dropped" and left to exercise by yourself at our Boot Camp. Nor will you be bored by the pace if you are a high performer. It's important to know that all of the exercises performed during Boot Camp can be scaled to suit all fitness levels.

Q. How much weight should I expect to lose?

A. Results may vary. Sounds cliché but it's true! In fact, we encourage our campers not to pay attention to the scale. Some people find that they are able to lose pounds and inches pretty quickly. Others find that they get greater results during their 2nd or 3rd month in camp. As is the case with everything in Boot Camp, the more you put into it, the more you get out of it. Pushing yourself during workouts and adhering to the diet will increase the likelihood of you reaching your goals.

Q. I understand that the diet program is an important part of Boot Camp. What does it entail?

A. Our approach to dieting is based upon fundamental and sound nutritional principles. First, campers are asked to refrain from alcohol during their enrollment in Boot Camp. The empty calories associated with alcoholic beverages may prevent you from reaching your goals—and we wouldn’t want that to happen. Next, we want you to eat roughly 6 small meals each day. Each meal should be comprised of a quality protein (lean meats, cheese, and low-fat/low sugar peanut butter) and a complex carbohydrate (wheat toast, edamame, sweet potato). This clean approach to eating also includes reducing sugar intake and elimination of fried and fatty foods (see "don’t even think about it" list). Drinking should be comprised of water, water and more water. Aside from helping you recover for our great workouts, water is essential to all of the physiological functions of the body. Proper diet, hydration and exercise are the building blocks of fitness and helping you reach for your goals.

Q. What time do we meet for each session?

A. Boot Campers should report to the ASC tennis court parking lot at 5:45 AM. I’ll say that again—5:45 AM sharp! Being on time to Boot Camp provides you with an opportunity to get your log book reviewed—grab a couple of sips of water and socialize with your fellow campers as you recap the fun you had during the last workout as you gear up for the next. As a motivator, you will be asked to perform "special bonus" exercises if you are late. Repeated tardiness will result in having your fellow campers join in the "special bonus" fun. 5:45 it is!

Q. What should I wear?

A. Wear loose comfortable clothing you don’t mind getting dirty. See "what should I bring" for details.

Q. I am a little nervous about signing up. What should I expect?

A. First of all, most people are nervous about Boot Camp on the first day. You may have all sorts of misconceptions about what Boot Camp is or is not. You can expect:

* to be challenged to push yourself
* to develop camaraderie and some good spirited competition
* to be treated with respect at all times
* to be coached in a safe environment with a cadre of fitness professionals
* to be held accountable to your fellow campers, instructors and most importantly, yourself
* to get out what you put into Boot Camp
* to develop friendships with a bunch of other fun-loving, hard working , people who are committed to their health and fitness—just like you!

Q. My work requires me to travel. How should I balance my professional and other commitments and Boot Camp?

A. Boot Camp is all about consistency—but we understand that personal and professional obligations may result in occasional absences. Fortunately we have a list of great exercises you can perform while traveling for business, on vacation or taking care of your Aunt Mavis and her cats.

Q. This is an outdoor program. Will sessions be held in the rain or snow?

A. Short answer, yes. There are a handful of reasons for canceling Boot Camp; namely, lightening or icy road conditions (that render roads unsafe to travel on). So that means if it is raining, you should wear a hat and light athletic rain gear (optional). (Short of sightings of animals walking two by two – we’re on.) Excuses such as "my hair will get messed up" or "it looked too cold" will be met with recommendations that you wear a hat if it is raining and put on a coat if it is cold. Your default assumption should be that we are holding Boot Camp. Not to mention the fact that many of our veteran campers have commented that some of their best and most memorable workouts have taken place in foul weather. Who are we to deprive you of such an opportunity? Seriously, one of the lead instructors will issue an email if sessions are cancelled