Bootcamp Day 1: Bang for the Buck

My workouts lately have consisted of running and yoga so I was long overdue for a change in routine. I bought a Groupon for Stacy’s Bootcamp earlier this year and figured now was as good a time as any to use it. Monday at 6 a.m. comes early but there is no better way to start the week than with a butt-busting bootcamp workout.

I arrived at Warren Street and River Terrace slightly nervous as I anticipated what was to come and whether I was too out of shape to have taken it on. Mauricio, our instructor, wasted no time. One set of jumping jacks and then we hit the ground with a set of mountain climbers and push-ups, then a sprint and another set of mountain climbers, push ups and one last sprint before we headed to a nearby bench for knee lifts.

Then came the running. A lot of running. Some backwards bear crawls and more running. There were sit ups, planks, leg lifts, more push-ups, burpees and squat jumps in between and then more running, stairs included. We repeated this three of four times before it was over.

I felt like I was working out with my own personal trainer but at a fraction of the cost and overall I was pleased with my performance, able to keep pace with some of the faster members of the group.

I apologize for the lack of pictures this time, but I’ll be documenting my progress as the weeks progress and will post photos along the way.

I find that exercise, especially strenuous exercise, is often a case of mind over matter. Although the workout was grueling and at times I wanted to stop due to thirst and exhaustion, I envisioned myself finishing and the way I would feel when it was over.

I have also learned that reciting a mantra to myself is also helpful: “I am strong enough to do this” or reminding myself of all the physical challenges I’ve accomplished so far like a marathon, triathlons, swimming in the Hudosn, really puts the task at hand into perspective. Keeping a calm mind and a strong purpose through difficult exercise is great practice for dealing with life’s difficult situations.

So next time you’re struggling to get through a difficult workout or another challenging experience, dig deep and find the strength to push through or if all else fails, fake it until you make it!

How do you get through a challenging workout?