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While some of us enjoy yoga, others need something a little more intense—that's where boot camp comes in. Well, not actual boot camp, but boot camp-style workouts. These workouts are fast paced and emphasize total fitness: endurance, strength, balance, and explosiveness are all goals of a boot camp workout. If you're tired of saying "om" or plugging away on the treadmill, a boot camp workout may wake up your tired fitness routine. Keep reading to discover the best boot camp workout for you.

Boot Camp?! Er, No Thanks...

Anything called "boot camp" sounds scary, but keep in mind that these aren't actual soldiers preparing for battle. Most boot campers are like you: regular people looking to jumpstart their fitness routine, increase their energy levels, or lose a little weight. Boot camp instructors realize they are working with people of all fitness levels, and their goal is to motivate and inspire "campers."

Exact boot camp workout programs vary, but most share the following traits:

• Strength in Numbers: At fitness boot camp, you're working out with a group of people who share your goals. It's much easier to get moving if you know you have a group of friends counting on you.
• Variety of Fitness Levels: Boot camps want to get people healthy, so trainers know how to work with all fitness levels. If you haven't worked out in ten years, you won't be expected to do the same regime as the marathon runner, and vice versa.
• 1-hour Workouts: You're busy, and boot camps understand that. Most boot camp workouts last one hour, including the warm up and cool down.
• Total Fitness: Boot camp exercises include a mix of cardio and strength training to give you endurance and muscle tone. They also recommend workout routines you can do at home.
• Fresh Air: Depending on the weather and location, most boot camp workouts involve scheduled days to exercise outside. If you're used to being in a stuffy gym, it's amazing what a difference a little fresh air can make!

Hopefully, boot camp doesn't sound quite so scary now. If you think you might want to try it, check out these boot camp exercises to get a feel for what's involved in the program.

How Do I Find a Boot Camp Workout?

Like gyms, boot camp workouts are run by companies with franchises across the country. There are multiple programs to choose from, so you'll want to do some research up front. Ask your friends, coworkers, or local gym if they know of a good boot camp program in your area. Ideally, you can talk to someone who's been there and hear first hand about the pros and cons.

Operation Boot Camp is the largest boot camp fitness program in the U.S. The program involves a 4-week session with 4 to 5 group workouts per week, designed to get you started on whatever fitness goals you may have (regardless of your previous fitness routine). As the Operation Boot Camp Web site says, "We give you the very friendly kick in the butt you need. It's amazing what you can achieve in 30 days." The site also features inspiring testimonials from real campers.

While most boot camp programs are coed, there are programs designed just for men or women. Code Pink Boot Camp is a boot camp designed specifically for women of all fitness levels.

Making Fitness Part of Your Routine

Whether you decide to sign up for boot camp or attend yoga classes, the important thing is to find a fitness routine you enjoy and stick to it. Consistency is key for getting healthy and seeing results, so keep looking until you discover a fun fitness routine you love.