Rules: Once you've been tagged, you are supposed to write a note with 25 random things, facts, habits, or goals about you. At the end, choose 25 people to be tagged. You have to tag the person who tagged you. If I tagged you, it's because I want to know more about you.
(To do this, go to “notes” under tabs on your profile page, paste these instructions in the body of the note, type your 25 random things, tag 25 people (in the right hand corner of the app) then click publish.)
1. If you are reading this, you probably know what boot camp is. When I started my first camp at Blackburn Park, very few people did. That rocks!
2. I started TABCC in 2005 under a different name with a different goal in mind and found out that attorneys are useful and that you should always go into a partnership looking to get out of it.
3. When I started Blackburn Park with my hubbie, Chris, everyone said we were crazy and wouldn't succeed. Last summer we had one of the biggest groups in the country. "F" those people that didn't believe in me.
4. One of the biggest lessons I have learned through leading boot camp is that believing in people goes a very long way.
5. Every day we have the ability to improve a persons life by teaching them good habits and educating them about being healthy. When I get tired or down, I try to think about that.
6. Motivation is achieved through words when we speak. Inspiration is achieved through actions. So we must always remember to participate in life and in boot camp.
7. Last year I traveled all over the country introducing people to our intense style of training and found myself back in Atlanta loving my group of instructors more than ever. The "elite" group of TABCC boot camp instructors are like no others in the world. You really are the best!
8. I just heard something about multi-vitamins not being worth it. Our boot camp program dispells a bunch of myths similar to that like not eating after 6pm - what a load of "basura".
9. I really hope that someone can convince Pres Obama to pass a bill that allows people to use their flexible spending account to pay for boot camp.
10. If I had to create a boot camp instructor superhero, I would combine DB's voice, EC's cheerfulness, JF's speed, KF's explosiveness on the sprint, SG's loyalty, RL's infectious energy/fire, the collective love for what we do of ALL my instructors, and the passion that GOD gave me. I am sure we could obliterate obesity with that super hero! What should we call her?
11. This winter I fell in love with my studio in Brookhaven all over again thanks to an awesome group of instructors and bunch of members with super awesome work ethics.
12. There would not be an American Boot Camp Company if it wasn't for my husband, Chris' unyielding support and understanding of my passion.
13. The one thing that keeps me going every day is a reminder that GOD gave me a gift to inspire and lead and granted me an opportunity to use the gift. And it is ONLY by His grace that I am alive and living in a great city and surrounded by nice things.
14. I very much dislike people that cheat and are dishonest. I have found in the outdoor boot camp business there are many of these people operating illegally in parks and participating in unethical practices. I thought tree huggers were peaceful?
15. I used to be a tree hugger. Then I found Jesus. Now I just use trees as marker for the next sprint in a workout.
16. I am not politically correct, but think it's funny when people try to be.
17. I am one of the most loyal, hard working, driven people you will ever meet. I don't quit, EVER.
18. I subscribe to the following work ethic so gracefully summed up in this sports quote "When your not training, remember, someone, somewhere out there, IS training. And when you meet them. They're going to beat you." I love competition and double dog dare them to bring everything they have every day. Because I WILL.
19. If there is one retired instructor that I miss more than any it would be Stu. You always made me laugh.
20. When we started boot camp, it was supposed to be FUN. Chris always reminds me that each new year. Thanks!
21. Helping the guys lose weight in the Atlanta's Biggest Loser contest last fall reminded me why I do what I do personally. Please send anyone that you care about that needs to lose weight my way. I promise I will do everything in my power to help them.
22. How does it feel to participate in boot camp? Watch any feel good sports movie at the point where the tides turn in favor of the underdog. That feeling of "I can do anything" is what inspires me every day. At TABCC we take everyday regular people and help them find their inner athlete.
23. Boot camp isn't for everyone. If your leg is broken and you are physically unable to jog you should find another exercise option. However, if you just haven't run before you should give it a try.
24. My top 3 favorite boot camp workouts are Recess, Assume the position and Power Plyo. What are yours?
25. 1, 2, 3, 4...I love boot camp!
Showing posts with label boot camp. Show all posts
Showing posts with label boot camp. Show all posts
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Monday, July 14, 2008
The Biggest Loser - The Problem with Reality TV
So as are many of you, I am so very interested in The Biggest Loser TV show. I love to watch the 2 minute out takes at the end of each season, all in a row and see how determined the people are and how even more determined they are when they get kicked off or make the cut to lose weight. The stories of each person are inspiring to even the most insane fitness enthusiast.
But what worries me is the thought that many people actually think it is safe and possible to lose the amounts of weight those people are losing in such a short period of time. The show alludes to double digit weight loss in a week and if the participants don't lose that weight, they are shunned and kicked off the show. What are we teaching our country?
All fitness and nutrition guidelines say that between 1-2 pounds a week is healthy weight loss, yet these people workout 4 hours a day and under insane conditions. We think it is cool that they have personal trainers that swear and scream at them while they scream right back.
Reality is actually not like the Biggest Loser. Reality is a struggle to lose the 2 pounds that are safe each week while balancing work, family and life. Reality lies in develop a supportive group of trainers that encourage you to be healthy and to not overtrain and to eat the right foods in the right amounts. In my opinion, reality is boot camp.
And how much fun can that be! With The American Boot Camp Company you get a 5 to 1 client to instructor ratio, much like The Biggest Loser TV show, but none of the drama from the trainers or other participants. You get only encourage trainers that believe in you. You get a healthy eating plan that teaches you about portion control, proper food choices and keeping your energy levels even. And most importantly you get one workout a day in only 45 minutes that kicks your butt beyond the need to workout again. Who needs Reality TV when you have The American Boot Camp Company?
But what worries me is the thought that many people actually think it is safe and possible to lose the amounts of weight those people are losing in such a short period of time. The show alludes to double digit weight loss in a week and if the participants don't lose that weight, they are shunned and kicked off the show. What are we teaching our country?
All fitness and nutrition guidelines say that between 1-2 pounds a week is healthy weight loss, yet these people workout 4 hours a day and under insane conditions. We think it is cool that they have personal trainers that swear and scream at them while they scream right back.
Reality is actually not like the Biggest Loser. Reality is a struggle to lose the 2 pounds that are safe each week while balancing work, family and life. Reality lies in develop a supportive group of trainers that encourage you to be healthy and to not overtrain and to eat the right foods in the right amounts. In my opinion, reality is boot camp.
And how much fun can that be! With The American Boot Camp Company you get a 5 to 1 client to instructor ratio, much like The Biggest Loser TV show, but none of the drama from the trainers or other participants. You get only encourage trainers that believe in you. You get a healthy eating plan that teaches you about portion control, proper food choices and keeping your energy levels even. And most importantly you get one workout a day in only 45 minutes that kicks your butt beyond the need to workout again. Who needs Reality TV when you have The American Boot Camp Company?
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Who believes in instant gratification?
Every year I close my outdoor operations down in January and people normally assume that is because it is too cold even in Atlanta to run outside fitness. But that is not really it. It has more to do with the type of client I want to attract. My ideal client knows that they need extra motivation and knows that they need support, but doesn't make "resolutions".
So in a world of "get fit quick", my company promises "results in 30 days". But doesn't that mean I want those clients seeking instant gratification? No! Because the kinds of results that I am promising are those that lead to long term changes to a person and help them to find a perminant path to fitness and health success. More energy. Glowing skin. A general sense of health.
But will they also SEE results. You know - weight loss?
If they follow my plan, yes. They will see that and more. They will see a perminant increase in their energy which will allow them to do more, experience more and both look AND feel better.
By eating healthy and exercising regularly, they can fight of multitudes of health issues and they can set an example in their community. But they can't always do it alone - which is why independant operators, like myself, look for clients that are not seeking instant gratification, but rather those that want to make a long term change.
So in a world of "get fit quick", my company promises "results in 30 days". But doesn't that mean I want those clients seeking instant gratification? No! Because the kinds of results that I am promising are those that lead to long term changes to a person and help them to find a perminant path to fitness and health success. More energy. Glowing skin. A general sense of health.
But will they also SEE results. You know - weight loss?
If they follow my plan, yes. They will see that and more. They will see a perminant increase in their energy which will allow them to do more, experience more and both look AND feel better.
By eating healthy and exercising regularly, they can fight of multitudes of health issues and they can set an example in their community. But they can't always do it alone - which is why independant operators, like myself, look for clients that are not seeking instant gratification, but rather those that want to make a long term change.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
The benefits of rising early with a clear head
I'll admit it. I am a boot camp instructor and I like to drink wine. I like to crisp fruit taste of a white wine or the bold spicy taste of a red wine. So much so, that I decided to start a wine tasting club with my friend, Emily.
So last night was our first club outing and man was it fun. We brought together girls from all different backgrounds, with all different career paths. Some married, some single, some tall, some short, but all of us united in wine. And after several bottles and lots of fun tastes and maybe a little to much of one particular variety we closed our first official wine club meeting and went home to our comfortable beds.
When my husbands alarm sounded this morning, I realized that I probably had 2 too many glasses last night and desperately needed water. But unlike most people, my second thought was that I needed to get hydrated so that I could go on my Thursday run. If I was too dehydrated, I might pull a muscle or something worse. So after a bottle of water, I decided to lay in bed a little. You see, Thursday is my day to sleep in to the late hour of 8am.
Now sleeping in to me, is not the same as it is to most people. Every morning, I rise before 5AM, quickly get dressed, brush my teeth and head out to boot camp at Blackburn Park. My job begins at 5:40am every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. So on Thursday I sleep until 8am. And that is late.
This morning when I rose with a foggy head, I realized why I quit partying and boosing it up on a frequent basis several years ago. I felt like I was waisting time. Like I had just wasted 2 hours of precious daylight and that I could have accomplished so much more. That is when I remembered how much I love to get up early and get things accomplised. And one saying kept popping into my head that a former boot camper once said, "At boot camp, we accomplish more by 7AM than most people do all day."
Lesson of the day - a wine tasting should be limited to one pour a bottle.
So last night was our first club outing and man was it fun. We brought together girls from all different backgrounds, with all different career paths. Some married, some single, some tall, some short, but all of us united in wine. And after several bottles and lots of fun tastes and maybe a little to much of one particular variety we closed our first official wine club meeting and went home to our comfortable beds.
When my husbands alarm sounded this morning, I realized that I probably had 2 too many glasses last night and desperately needed water. But unlike most people, my second thought was that I needed to get hydrated so that I could go on my Thursday run. If I was too dehydrated, I might pull a muscle or something worse. So after a bottle of water, I decided to lay in bed a little. You see, Thursday is my day to sleep in to the late hour of 8am.
Now sleeping in to me, is not the same as it is to most people. Every morning, I rise before 5AM, quickly get dressed, brush my teeth and head out to boot camp at Blackburn Park. My job begins at 5:40am every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. So on Thursday I sleep until 8am. And that is late.
This morning when I rose with a foggy head, I realized why I quit partying and boosing it up on a frequent basis several years ago. I felt like I was waisting time. Like I had just wasted 2 hours of precious daylight and that I could have accomplished so much more. That is when I remembered how much I love to get up early and get things accomplised. And one saying kept popping into my head that a former boot camper once said, "At boot camp, we accomplish more by 7AM than most people do all day."
Lesson of the day - a wine tasting should be limited to one pour a bottle.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Decisions
Most of the life changing decisions that have occured in my life have been made for me. Usually when a change is necessry the powers that be get involved and make it so that there isn't a decision. I am ok with that, too. Just as long as I continue to live right and try to be good and just in all the daily choices I make, my good intentions usually lead to that right choice.
But for once I am at a juncture in my life that I have to consciously choose. I worry that if I choose one way I will regret it in the future. But if I choose the other way I may regret that too. And so for the past month or so I have made no decision. I have put it off using this past weekends trip as an excuse. But now that the trip is over I have to decide how to proceed. And I think for once in my life I am going to proactively make a decision.
It will be life changing for me and for many others. And every second I am second guessing myself. I try to remember all of the people that inspire me to be better, my husband and family, those clients that so generously allow me to be a part of their life changing experiences, who make me truly want to be a better trainer. And for those who can't be part of my journey. I just don't want to dissappoint anyone.
And so over the next few weeks my decisions will play out. I have this little placque on my desk that says, sometimes you just have to take the leap and build your wings on the way down.
So here's to the hope I have wings.
But for once I am at a juncture in my life that I have to consciously choose. I worry that if I choose one way I will regret it in the future. But if I choose the other way I may regret that too. And so for the past month or so I have made no decision. I have put it off using this past weekends trip as an excuse. But now that the trip is over I have to decide how to proceed. And I think for once in my life I am going to proactively make a decision.
It will be life changing for me and for many others. And every second I am second guessing myself. I try to remember all of the people that inspire me to be better, my husband and family, those clients that so generously allow me to be a part of their life changing experiences, who make me truly want to be a better trainer. And for those who can't be part of my journey. I just don't want to dissappoint anyone.
And so over the next few weeks my decisions will play out. I have this little placque on my desk that says, sometimes you just have to take the leap and build your wings on the way down.
So here's to the hope I have wings.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Life is like...
a basketball game. But not just any game. That game where something is on the line - an undefeated season, a scoring record, a championship or even just the ability to say you beat a certain opponant. As March Madness is in full swing, basketball movies fill the cable stations and while wathcing "Glory Days" last night, my own childhood glory days quickly fill my mind.
It's 1989 and our 8th grade team has gone undefeated in conference play - a first in school history. Being only 13, a girls mind is already spinning, but the pressure to win and not let anyone down was incredable. As we headed to the state championship tournament our coach said something that I will never forget. He said, "This opportunity only happens to most people once in their lifetime. You should remember every moment and be extatic that you have made it this far." At that time we had no clue what he meant. Again, we were 13 - we thought we knew it all and we were SURE we would see a winning season like that again at SOME point in our lives. Little did we know. What we were also sure of was how incredibly nervous we were to be playing against the best teams in the state. Against girls that would go on to be leading scorers and all time blocking champs in high school, not to mention the future college and even WMBA stars (the WMBA didn't even exist then). We knew we were out of our league, but we played with all our hearts. When our leading scorer got hurt, we fell apart as a team.
I think back to how scared I was. How mortifying a loss in the first round was going to be. But I also remember how helpless I felt because I couldn't contribute to the win any more than I already was. At that moment I vowed never to let one player cause me to not reach my goals again.
Little did I know that my future would be much like that basketball competition. Today is quite similar in that I am a bit out of my league trying to take a company national in an industry full of giants and companies with more history. But this time there will be no one to depend on but me. This time my destany is in my own hands and my ability to sprint up the court and hustle is the only limiting factor. I am still nervous, terrified and sick to my stomach on a daily basis. But then I remember my coaches comment about this only happening once in a lifetime. And he was right - this is a once in a lifetime deal that I have. And I don't intend to lose this time.
Good thing I have been practicing.
It's 1989 and our 8th grade team has gone undefeated in conference play - a first in school history. Being only 13, a girls mind is already spinning, but the pressure to win and not let anyone down was incredable. As we headed to the state championship tournament our coach said something that I will never forget. He said, "This opportunity only happens to most people once in their lifetime. You should remember every moment and be extatic that you have made it this far." At that time we had no clue what he meant. Again, we were 13 - we thought we knew it all and we were SURE we would see a winning season like that again at SOME point in our lives. Little did we know. What we were also sure of was how incredibly nervous we were to be playing against the best teams in the state. Against girls that would go on to be leading scorers and all time blocking champs in high school, not to mention the future college and even WMBA stars (the WMBA didn't even exist then). We knew we were out of our league, but we played with all our hearts. When our leading scorer got hurt, we fell apart as a team.
I think back to how scared I was. How mortifying a loss in the first round was going to be. But I also remember how helpless I felt because I couldn't contribute to the win any more than I already was. At that moment I vowed never to let one player cause me to not reach my goals again.
Little did I know that my future would be much like that basketball competition. Today is quite similar in that I am a bit out of my league trying to take a company national in an industry full of giants and companies with more history. But this time there will be no one to depend on but me. This time my destany is in my own hands and my ability to sprint up the court and hustle is the only limiting factor. I am still nervous, terrified and sick to my stomach on a daily basis. But then I remember my coaches comment about this only happening once in a lifetime. And he was right - this is a once in a lifetime deal that I have. And I don't intend to lose this time.
Good thing I have been practicing.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Letting me down
So I was reminded today about how diverse a lead instructor needs to be when leading a group of multiple fitness levels in a results based program. Another instructor mentioned that a camper told them they felt like they were "letting me down" in their performance. My initial reaction was that I didn't want the camper to feel that way and that I should talk to them because they really weren't letting me down.
But then I took a minute to consider my role as a leader of the group. I have to make sure first that everyone is safe each day. From where we do the actualy workout (are their holes in the field, is there enough light, is there any traffic to consider), to how we transition from place to place, to how each exercise is explained and demonstrated with proper technique. I have to them make sure that everyone is challenged from the fittest person to the very out of shape person to just the right degree that they are uncomfortable constantly, but not so far that they get injured or demotivated. Then I also have to make sure the mentally I am motivating each person. Do they get enough education, positive support during the workout and firmness when necessary? Does each person feel good about themselves when they leave the workout and for the rest of the day when they are not with me, are they recovering properly? Then I have to consider if they are treating their bodies right. Are they eating enough of the right things when they leave the workout to refuel their bodies? Are they drinking enough water to stay hydrated? And I won't even touch on the support, organziation and training for the instructors that help me, or the sales to fill the camp or the administrative duties.
So as a lead instructor, I have alot to think about just during the 45 minute workout. And I always have to keep in the back of my mind - how do I help each individual reach their goals in the time they spend with me?
So what does this have to do with a camper feeling like they, "let me down"? Everything. The way you present yourself as an instructor each day is key to making all of the above responsibilities flow and mesh. Building up the raport with the client and causing them to trust you to help them is the ultimate goal for an instructor. Once you do this, they listen to every word that comes out of your mouth, so you have to come "game on" to every workout.
So at the conclusion of yesterday's workout, I carefully mentioned to a client that I know has been teetering on the edge of her comfort level and is ready for that next level that I think she has more to give. And she knew it. She just needed someone to tell her. She in turn mentioned to another instructor then that she felt like she was letting me down. And in a way, she was. By not giving her all she was letting me down, but more importantly she is letting herself down. However, she would not have know this before I mentioned because she has not been to this point in her journey before. Now that she knows, she will change her actions. She will bring her best to every workout and try just a little bit harder to not let me down and in turn to not let herself down.
Now had I gone with my first instinct, I may not have been able to demonstrate the importance of a firm yet fair approach to being a lead instructor. As a lead instructor, we can't always be their friend or their "mom". We have to show the clients that we believe in them by our tone of voice, not by physically holding their hands and patting them on the back. We have to be firm with them when they need it and not let them stay comfortable because we think they are out of shape. We have to show them that we care about their safety and will not let them get hurt, but we can't baby them by allowing them to walk when they get tired. We have to keep an eye on the back of the group at all times no matter where we are and show those people at the back that we will not let them off the hook because they are not in the great of shape. And at the same time, we must let these people know we care about their progress by spending a few seconds each day one on one with them, telling them how great we think they are doing. We don't need long speaches, just a quick acknowledgement that we see them working hard, but we know they can do just a bit more.
And when they give us more, we have to throw a party so big that the entire park heres you.
All that, just so one more camper can trust you, and so one more camper can think they let you down. And one more camper can begin their journey outside their comfort zone into a new zone of results.
Firm yet fair.
But then I took a minute to consider my role as a leader of the group. I have to make sure first that everyone is safe each day. From where we do the actualy workout (are their holes in the field, is there enough light, is there any traffic to consider), to how we transition from place to place, to how each exercise is explained and demonstrated with proper technique. I have to them make sure that everyone is challenged from the fittest person to the very out of shape person to just the right degree that they are uncomfortable constantly, but not so far that they get injured or demotivated. Then I also have to make sure the mentally I am motivating each person. Do they get enough education, positive support during the workout and firmness when necessary? Does each person feel good about themselves when they leave the workout and for the rest of the day when they are not with me, are they recovering properly? Then I have to consider if they are treating their bodies right. Are they eating enough of the right things when they leave the workout to refuel their bodies? Are they drinking enough water to stay hydrated? And I won't even touch on the support, organziation and training for the instructors that help me, or the sales to fill the camp or the administrative duties.
So as a lead instructor, I have alot to think about just during the 45 minute workout. And I always have to keep in the back of my mind - how do I help each individual reach their goals in the time they spend with me?
So what does this have to do with a camper feeling like they, "let me down"? Everything. The way you present yourself as an instructor each day is key to making all of the above responsibilities flow and mesh. Building up the raport with the client and causing them to trust you to help them is the ultimate goal for an instructor. Once you do this, they listen to every word that comes out of your mouth, so you have to come "game on" to every workout.
So at the conclusion of yesterday's workout, I carefully mentioned to a client that I know has been teetering on the edge of her comfort level and is ready for that next level that I think she has more to give. And she knew it. She just needed someone to tell her. She in turn mentioned to another instructor then that she felt like she was letting me down. And in a way, she was. By not giving her all she was letting me down, but more importantly she is letting herself down. However, she would not have know this before I mentioned because she has not been to this point in her journey before. Now that she knows, she will change her actions. She will bring her best to every workout and try just a little bit harder to not let me down and in turn to not let herself down.
Now had I gone with my first instinct, I may not have been able to demonstrate the importance of a firm yet fair approach to being a lead instructor. As a lead instructor, we can't always be their friend or their "mom". We have to show the clients that we believe in them by our tone of voice, not by physically holding their hands and patting them on the back. We have to be firm with them when they need it and not let them stay comfortable because we think they are out of shape. We have to show them that we care about their safety and will not let them get hurt, but we can't baby them by allowing them to walk when they get tired. We have to keep an eye on the back of the group at all times no matter where we are and show those people at the back that we will not let them off the hook because they are not in the great of shape. And at the same time, we must let these people know we care about their progress by spending a few seconds each day one on one with them, telling them how great we think they are doing. We don't need long speaches, just a quick acknowledgement that we see them working hard, but we know they can do just a bit more.
And when they give us more, we have to throw a party so big that the entire park heres you.
All that, just so one more camper can trust you, and so one more camper can think they let you down. And one more camper can begin their journey outside their comfort zone into a new zone of results.
Firm yet fair.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
The choices we make
Every day each of us makes some type of choice. Some choices are good, some are not so good. In boot camp, sometimes it is the difference between choosing to have a good attitude and choosing to not give up that makes all the difference between whether a camper sees progress or not.
So each day during the session I send out emails and today's email is my favorite because it is about making the choice to be positive and give it your all. In the competitive environment that I face every day as a boot camp owner and with the fitness industry in general, staying positive can often be very difficult. But the email I sent to my campers below says it all.
See for yourself.
Your Choice Today
There are two primary choices in life; to accept conditions as they exist, or accept the responsibility for changing them. Denis Waitley
As you continue with what is possibly a new way of life (even if it is only temporary), please try to embrace it. Your instructors were not always leading the pack, but were once in your shoes. We are here to help guide you and to help you learn to make better choices. We understand that you might make a bad choice now and then, and we ask you to understand that we are going to point it out when you do. We question some of your choices to make sure you fully understand what might be new concepts on food and exercise. We are here to help you! So let’s try to look at the following as choices that we consciously make each day:
Please make the choice to be honest in your books, regardless of the extra encouragement that might come with that honesty.
Please make the choice to participate to the fullest in all the workouts. Sometimes you get tired or sore, but try to push through that and use the energy of the other campers and the instructors to help you.
Please make the choice to engage the help of an instructor when you need it. If you have a question, ask! We want to help you!
Remember, where you started…
"Right now you are one choice away from a new beginning - one that leads you toward becoming the fullest human being you can be." Oprah Winfrey
…you have already made this choice!
This is where you should be each day…
"Your decision to be, have and do something out of ordinary entails facing difficulties that are out of the ordinary as well. Sometimes your greatest asset is simply your ability to stay with it longer than anyone else." Brian Tracy
And don’t forget this about your choice to join this program and start down a new path to a healthy and fit lifestyle:
It's in your moments of decision that your destiny is shaped.
Anthony Robbins
See you soon! Make the choice to be there, be on time and have a great attitude!
So each day during the session I send out emails and today's email is my favorite because it is about making the choice to be positive and give it your all. In the competitive environment that I face every day as a boot camp owner and with the fitness industry in general, staying positive can often be very difficult. But the email I sent to my campers below says it all.
See for yourself.
Your Choice Today
There are two primary choices in life; to accept conditions as they exist, or accept the responsibility for changing them. Denis Waitley
As you continue with what is possibly a new way of life (even if it is only temporary), please try to embrace it. Your instructors were not always leading the pack, but were once in your shoes. We are here to help guide you and to help you learn to make better choices. We understand that you might make a bad choice now and then, and we ask you to understand that we are going to point it out when you do. We question some of your choices to make sure you fully understand what might be new concepts on food and exercise. We are here to help you! So let’s try to look at the following as choices that we consciously make each day:
Please make the choice to be honest in your books, regardless of the extra encouragement that might come with that honesty.
Please make the choice to participate to the fullest in all the workouts. Sometimes you get tired or sore, but try to push through that and use the energy of the other campers and the instructors to help you.
Please make the choice to engage the help of an instructor when you need it. If you have a question, ask! We want to help you!
Remember, where you started…
"Right now you are one choice away from a new beginning - one that leads you toward becoming the fullest human being you can be." Oprah Winfrey
…you have already made this choice!
This is where you should be each day…
"Your decision to be, have and do something out of ordinary entails facing difficulties that are out of the ordinary as well. Sometimes your greatest asset is simply your ability to stay with it longer than anyone else." Brian Tracy
And don’t forget this about your choice to join this program and start down a new path to a healthy and fit lifestyle:
It's in your moments of decision that your destiny is shaped.
Anthony Robbins
See you soon! Make the choice to be there, be on time and have a great attitude!
Sunday, March 2, 2008
A sign of things to come or a missed opportunity
So as I come to the end of the first chapter in this new adventure of expanding The American Boot Camp Company, I found it only fitting that I take a run in Rocky's footsteps up the down the avenue and up the stairs of the Philadelphia Museum. Rocky's statue isn't standing at the top any more, but rather off to the side. What I did find at the top was rather ironic.
As I ran up the stairs making sure to hit each step just like I tell my boot camers, turning over my feet faster with every set of stairs, I thought about the movie that was made there and the recognition that the city received from one single scene. And as I completed the last flight, sure enough I looked up and there was a group of people in a down dog position with two men standing over them calling out commands. A boot camp. Sunday morning, 6:50AM.
And all of a sudden the thoughts of opportunity returned to my head along with thoughts of missed opportunity. Am I too late? Have I missed the boat? Or is this a sign of things to come? Where being outdoors on a 30 degree morning isn't just for us crazy people, but a way of life?
I sure do hope that the future holds more Sunday morning boot camps, many of which are called The American Boot Camp Company.
HOOHAH! Can't wait to get back to Atlanta.
As I ran up the stairs making sure to hit each step just like I tell my boot camers, turning over my feet faster with every set of stairs, I thought about the movie that was made there and the recognition that the city received from one single scene. And as I completed the last flight, sure enough I looked up and there was a group of people in a down dog position with two men standing over them calling out commands. A boot camp. Sunday morning, 6:50AM.
And all of a sudden the thoughts of opportunity returned to my head along with thoughts of missed opportunity. Am I too late? Have I missed the boat? Or is this a sign of things to come? Where being outdoors on a 30 degree morning isn't just for us crazy people, but a way of life?
I sure do hope that the future holds more Sunday morning boot camps, many of which are called The American Boot Camp Company.
HOOHAH! Can't wait to get back to Atlanta.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Giving Away the Farm
That is what alot of people thought I was doing by offering a Boot Camp Instructor Certification Class around the country. They thought that I might give away too much and then they could just go out and start a boot camp. Wouldn't that cause more competition?
And in fact that was a question I received in my training class last night. Last night I offered the first ever nationally accredited Outdoor Fitness Boot Camp Instructor Training class. And yes, those people could one day be (and in fact currently are) my competition. And yes, by training them they can compete better. But better compeition is what the outdoor fitness boot camp industry needs.
I want fitness professionals to offer SAFE and effective workouts. I want to stop hearing the a client got hurt doing someone else's boot camp workout. That makes me sad. I want some real competition head to head. That makes me better. That makes our company better and it makes boot camp a more long term valid form of fitness in the eyes of the general public. Then when I win, which I will, I REALLY WIN. I just don't get it by default.
Now I am not really giving away the farm. But when I was a little girl, my dad taught me a very valuable lesson in business. Always smile when you don't like how something is going or when you don't like a person. Keep your "enemy's" close and in fact, embrace the challenge that they bring to you by showing them that you are a kind, generous person. Get to know your competitors, laugh with them and give them just enough information to be dangerous, but not enough information to hurt you. And that is what I am doing. I want the level of fitness instruction to increase in this country. I want fitness professionals to start operating like business professionals and not just former jocks and bodybuilders with nothing else to do.
Last night, I met quite a few potential leaders (although none quite as good as my instructors). They were very anxious to learn. They were eager to see how it was done right. Because The American Boot Camp Company is doing it right. Last night, I have never been more proud of the hard work that has gone into our company. So to all my volunteer instructors, all my paid instructors, all my kickboxing, interval and core instructors, and especially Tara and Chris G. - Thank you for helping to make TABCC an awesome company. And a special thanks to my dad for teaching me to be a leader through example.
And in fact that was a question I received in my training class last night. Last night I offered the first ever nationally accredited Outdoor Fitness Boot Camp Instructor Training class. And yes, those people could one day be (and in fact currently are) my competition. And yes, by training them they can compete better. But better compeition is what the outdoor fitness boot camp industry needs.
I want fitness professionals to offer SAFE and effective workouts. I want to stop hearing the a client got hurt doing someone else's boot camp workout. That makes me sad. I want some real competition head to head. That makes me better. That makes our company better and it makes boot camp a more long term valid form of fitness in the eyes of the general public. Then when I win, which I will, I REALLY WIN. I just don't get it by default.
Now I am not really giving away the farm. But when I was a little girl, my dad taught me a very valuable lesson in business. Always smile when you don't like how something is going or when you don't like a person. Keep your "enemy's" close and in fact, embrace the challenge that they bring to you by showing them that you are a kind, generous person. Get to know your competitors, laugh with them and give them just enough information to be dangerous, but not enough information to hurt you. And that is what I am doing. I want the level of fitness instruction to increase in this country. I want fitness professionals to start operating like business professionals and not just former jocks and bodybuilders with nothing else to do.
Last night, I met quite a few potential leaders (although none quite as good as my instructors). They were very anxious to learn. They were eager to see how it was done right. Because The American Boot Camp Company is doing it right. Last night, I have never been more proud of the hard work that has gone into our company. So to all my volunteer instructors, all my paid instructors, all my kickboxing, interval and core instructors, and especially Tara and Chris G. - Thank you for helping to make TABCC an awesome company. And a special thanks to my dad for teaching me to be a leader through example.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
The day the lightening struck
This mornings workout will live on in TABCC's history. And we were lucky and crazy enough to be part of it. Today, every instructor that was at the Blackburn workout earned their stripes. You earned the ability to say, "Remember when". But most importantly you earned the respect of your campers and of each other.
It has never been more clear to me why I am traveling across the country for very little money to educate fitness professionals about leading outdoor workouts than it was this morning.
Around 6:35am the first cloud to ground lightening struck about 2 miles away from our group. Less than 10 seconds later the second bolt hit, but much closer this time. We had already made the decision to head back from our end of month long run early and were just a football field or so from the cars when the wind picked up and the sideways rain started pounding so hard and fast that we could barely see.
Branches were falling and more rain was coming down than I think I have ever seen. Just as the front of the group made it back to the cars the first bolt of lightening hit a nearby tree. It was still raining with such fury that we coudnt tell how close the tree was, but could hear the tree crack. In response we sprinted away from the tree above us and as that happened the second bolt hit the transformer less than 50 feet from me and much closer to several others just getting in from the run. We got everyone into the safety of their cars and home safely, but all day I have been receiving stories about this workout that will live forever.
Please take a minute to see why the instructors trained under The American Boot Camp Company Training Program are the best in the country.
From an instructor: "Wow – that was intense. I think if you look at every other workout that we do, obviously the weather/workout combo today was the issue. If we had been doing cone sprints or even the PT test, getting back to the cars wouldn’t have been such an issue. But it was and thankfully nobody got hurt so we should be conscious, in the future, of what to do.
It’s funny – we saw what this instructor team is made of today. People hung in there and made sure that the campers got back to their cars."
From a boot camper: "This morning was awesome! I am registering for next month right now!"
From a boot camper: "I want to share with you what I went threw this morning. Ever since boot camp started, I park my car in front of that light poll that was struck this morning. I always lock my car and throw my key underneath the car inside my right tire. I have done this everyday since we began. This morning I got out of the car and ran to where we gather b/c I thought I was running late. I forgot to put my keys in the regular place which is underneath my car. I realized I still had my keys when I met up with the group so I placed them by the big tree by your car.
After our run and as we all got back to the parking lot, I was running towards my car b/c of the heavy rain and when I was about 20 yards from my car I realized that my keys are at the tree near your car, so I started to turn around to head in that direction when Suddenly that lighting struck twice at that poll where I was parked. I froze for a good ten seconds in shock b/c I have never been that close to lighting before. I then ran to the tree, got my keys and ran to my car.
I'm not the most religious person but that made me think... If I had placed my keys that morning underneath the car, I would have been there on my hands and knees in a puddle of water trying to get them when that lighting struck. But today, THANK GOD I forgot to put my keys there. Isn't that weird. I have always placed my keys there but today I did not and lighting struck that area.. What are the chances of that.... I would be fried chicken right now. "
From a boot camp instructor: "I am actually glad I was with the camper at the back--- she told me before the run she was trying not to psyche herself out about the long run. I responded with - of course- she could do it , that she would be surprised at how far she runs everyday at the park and she would be thrilled at the end when she found out how far she had gone. So, I was glad I was with her at the end.
She seemed fine until we were almost at the little grassy hill we ran up to cut through to the parking lot. Josh was there waiting and directing us and by this time I was actually holding under her arm as she kept saying she couldn't see very well. Josh grabbed her other arm to assist in helping her up on the curb and she seemed to start panicking a little. I told her she was fine and I could see everything and I just kept talking to her saying, Mother Nature is giving it to us but we are going to finish strong, we are almost there and I told her she should go home and sign up for next month b/c if she could run today she can do anything!
She seemd to get calm just as fast as she seemed to panic, which was good. I made sure she got right up to the door of her car and said - good job and I will see you tomorrow. Driving home I couldn't believe all the tree stuff on the road and nothing fell on us. ...Nice job by everyone."
Instructors - Thank you for all that you do. Thank you for caring about the clients as much as I care about them. Thank you for treating each other with care and friendship. I am so proud to be on your team!
It has never been more clear to me why I am traveling across the country for very little money to educate fitness professionals about leading outdoor workouts than it was this morning.
Around 6:35am the first cloud to ground lightening struck about 2 miles away from our group. Less than 10 seconds later the second bolt hit, but much closer this time. We had already made the decision to head back from our end of month long run early and were just a football field or so from the cars when the wind picked up and the sideways rain started pounding so hard and fast that we could barely see.
Branches were falling and more rain was coming down than I think I have ever seen. Just as the front of the group made it back to the cars the first bolt of lightening hit a nearby tree. It was still raining with such fury that we coudnt tell how close the tree was, but could hear the tree crack. In response we sprinted away from the tree above us and as that happened the second bolt hit the transformer less than 50 feet from me and much closer to several others just getting in from the run. We got everyone into the safety of their cars and home safely, but all day I have been receiving stories about this workout that will live forever.
Please take a minute to see why the instructors trained under The American Boot Camp Company Training Program are the best in the country.
From an instructor: "Wow – that was intense. I think if you look at every other workout that we do, obviously the weather/workout combo today was the issue. If we had been doing cone sprints or even the PT test, getting back to the cars wouldn’t have been such an issue. But it was and thankfully nobody got hurt so we should be conscious, in the future, of what to do.
It’s funny – we saw what this instructor team is made of today. People hung in there and made sure that the campers got back to their cars."
From a boot camper: "This morning was awesome! I am registering for next month right now!"
From a boot camper: "I want to share with you what I went threw this morning. Ever since boot camp started, I park my car in front of that light poll that was struck this morning. I always lock my car and throw my key underneath the car inside my right tire. I have done this everyday since we began. This morning I got out of the car and ran to where we gather b/c I thought I was running late. I forgot to put my keys in the regular place which is underneath my car. I realized I still had my keys when I met up with the group so I placed them by the big tree by your car.
After our run and as we all got back to the parking lot, I was running towards my car b/c of the heavy rain and when I was about 20 yards from my car I realized that my keys are at the tree near your car, so I started to turn around to head in that direction when Suddenly that lighting struck twice at that poll where I was parked. I froze for a good ten seconds in shock b/c I have never been that close to lighting before. I then ran to the tree, got my keys and ran to my car.
I'm not the most religious person but that made me think... If I had placed my keys that morning underneath the car, I would have been there on my hands and knees in a puddle of water trying to get them when that lighting struck. But today, THANK GOD I forgot to put my keys there. Isn't that weird. I have always placed my keys there but today I did not and lighting struck that area.. What are the chances of that.... I would be fried chicken right now. "
From a boot camp instructor: "I am actually glad I was with the camper at the back--- she told me before the run she was trying not to psyche herself out about the long run. I responded with - of course- she could do it , that she would be surprised at how far she runs everyday at the park and she would be thrilled at the end when she found out how far she had gone. So, I was glad I was with her at the end.
She seemed fine until we were almost at the little grassy hill we ran up to cut through to the parking lot. Josh was there waiting and directing us and by this time I was actually holding under her arm as she kept saying she couldn't see very well. Josh grabbed her other arm to assist in helping her up on the curb and she seemed to start panicking a little. I told her she was fine and I could see everything and I just kept talking to her saying, Mother Nature is giving it to us but we are going to finish strong, we are almost there and I told her she should go home and sign up for next month b/c if she could run today she can do anything!
She seemd to get calm just as fast as she seemed to panic, which was good. I made sure she got right up to the door of her car and said - good job and I will see you tomorrow. Driving home I couldn't believe all the tree stuff on the road and nothing fell on us. ...Nice job by everyone."
Instructors - Thank you for all that you do. Thank you for caring about the clients as much as I care about them. Thank you for treating each other with care and friendship. I am so proud to be on your team!
Monday, February 18, 2008
Bittersweet victory
11:58pm - 2 email messages from boot campers not coming on Monday. 1 is sick, the other just won't be there. 4:02 am - 8 more messages came in overnight. 8 more campers not coming.
Why does this upset me so? I don't know, I guess it's because I know what is coming on Monday. Maybe it's because I think that midway is the best day of the month. I am positive it is because I love to see people reach their goals. To blast away preconceived notions that they are not runners and that they are out of shape. I love to show people that THEY CAN DO IT. That they can run faster and in only two weeks.
But this morning was bittersweet. Everyone that showed up beat their initial times as predicted. Why can I say that with such confidence? Because The American Boot Camp Company's program works. No that is not bragging, just plain fact. The unique style of high end customer service combined with corporate training for our instructors combined with a blend of workouts designed to constantly push each camper out of their comfort zone - every day. The program works. And it works every time. I just like to take one day a month to show that off. To really win the new campers over.
And it makes me sad when I don't get that opportunity. When campers are sick or injured or just can't make it. Those people I understand. It is the people that pay their money and don't respond to emails or don't make the effort to make the program a priority. It makes me sad.
I really and truly wish that every day, everyone would be as in love with boot camp as I am. I just want to show every person in America that they have more in them than they believe. I want to show them that I believe in them and that together progress is a given. I live to inspire the beginner to start moving, to push the intermediate to the next level and to show the true competitor that life is just beginning in their 40's. Today 15 people saw that with a lot of hard work, careful attention to what they put into their body in terms of food and beverage and some positive motivation from a group of awesome instructors that in only two weeks they could become better.
I just wish that all 33 could have seen that today. So I guess I will just have to show up tomorrow and try and drag it out of them.
Why does this upset me so? I don't know, I guess it's because I know what is coming on Monday. Maybe it's because I think that midway is the best day of the month. I am positive it is because I love to see people reach their goals. To blast away preconceived notions that they are not runners and that they are out of shape. I love to show people that THEY CAN DO IT. That they can run faster and in only two weeks.
But this morning was bittersweet. Everyone that showed up beat their initial times as predicted. Why can I say that with such confidence? Because The American Boot Camp Company's program works. No that is not bragging, just plain fact. The unique style of high end customer service combined with corporate training for our instructors combined with a blend of workouts designed to constantly push each camper out of their comfort zone - every day. The program works. And it works every time. I just like to take one day a month to show that off. To really win the new campers over.
And it makes me sad when I don't get that opportunity. When campers are sick or injured or just can't make it. Those people I understand. It is the people that pay their money and don't respond to emails or don't make the effort to make the program a priority. It makes me sad.
I really and truly wish that every day, everyone would be as in love with boot camp as I am. I just want to show every person in America that they have more in them than they believe. I want to show them that I believe in them and that together progress is a given. I live to inspire the beginner to start moving, to push the intermediate to the next level and to show the true competitor that life is just beginning in their 40's. Today 15 people saw that with a lot of hard work, careful attention to what they put into their body in terms of food and beverage and some positive motivation from a group of awesome instructors that in only two weeks they could become better.
I just wish that all 33 could have seen that today. So I guess I will just have to show up tomorrow and try and drag it out of them.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
