On Saturday, August 29, 2009 at high noon, the 4 annual American Boot Camp Company Olympic games got under way to a clear blue sky and crowd of over 60 participants, supporters and family members. Held on neutral ground, at our new Evening Boot Camp meeting spot, the American Legion field at Chastain Park was host to a record setting day full of surprises.
We kicked off the games with the 1 mile run on the PATH. With an out and back course, the run was flat and fast with a beautiful golf course view. The first gold medal of the day went to Brett W. from Chastain AM Camper Team blasting away his competition with a 5:42 mile beating both fellow campers and instructors – the first of four gold medals to go to Campers over instructors. Josh N (Blackburn Instructor – 5:52) and Bill M (Blackburn Camper – 6:00) rounded out the first points on the board.
The group moved quickly back to the main field to compete in the first of many more events starting with the 1 minute situp competition. After careful explanation of the rules for counting, twelve competitors lined up. With the call of “GO!” by impartial judge Sonja G. the participants began cranking out situps. After just 60 seconds, the gold went to Blackburn Park Lead Instructor and reigning gold medal champ, Mari G with 69. Close by was fellow instructor from Blackburn, “FUN” Donna B with 65. Rounding out the competition was Kay Lynn (Blackburn Park Camper with 55). The first of several sweeps for the Blackburn Park location.
Next up pushups. Traditionally Blackburn and Chastain have battled it out over pushups with Chastain winning the previous year’s battle for #1. This year, Blackburn Instructor Brandon Q eked out 77 pushups to win. But Chastain would not stay down for long. The buckled down and took second (Chris Y – 69) and third (Lindsey – 57). Lindsey is only the second female to score points at this event.
As the sun beat down the battle for bragging rights increased with the infamous ab bridge contest. Traditionally the ab bridge has been Chastain’s event. Today the tides would turn. In just over 10 minutes, all Chastain campers and instructors were eliminated leaving the second Blackburn sweep of the day. Brandon Q (10:01) and Beverly R (10:50) both Blackburn Park Instructors set personal best while Kay Lynn M stunned the crowd with her record setting 11:22.
The next events up “crab walk” and “bear crawl” were true boot camp style activities and were anyone’s events to take. Blackburn Park campers Kevin P (1st) and Bill M (2nd) led the way with Chris C, Blackburn Instructor taking 3rd to complete the third Blackburn sweep of the day.
But Chastain wasn’t done. With a surprising last minute substitute, Tiffany B busted out 36 squat thrusts in one minute to take the gold home for Chastain Instructor’s Team. Showing the group that girls can beat boys, Tiffany represented all females with a fantastic showing of strength. Tying for second was Josh (Blackburn Instructor – 35) and Bill (Blackburn Camper – 35) followed by Corey (Blackburn Instructor – 33) in 3rd.
Then final 3 field events were a mix of surprise, photo finish and crazy. The sack race started with a last minute entry by Mari G (Blackburn Instructor) who never even attempted a sack race before, several substitutions in the 3 legged race and a bunch of dips throwing off the competitor in the backwards race. In a photo finish sack race event, Mari G. beat Matt B (Chastain Instructor) by a jump with Suzanne taking 3rd. Then the 3 legged race was dominated by the men of Chastain with team Matt D/Chris Y taking first by only a hair past team Mike B/Brett W. Team Tricia M/Beverly R came in a close 3rd. Finishing up the field races was the backward race won by quietly nimble Chris C (Blackburn Instructor) with Matt B (Chastain Instructors) and Matt D (Chastain Instructors) coming in a close 2nd and 3rd.
The next two events moved to a harder surface and started with a crazy ping pong duck walk where the contestants attempted to drop ping pong balls into Solo cups. In just one minute, Ashley F took the second gold for Chastain Campers with Cara S (Blackburn Camper), Tara B(Blackburn Camper) and Donna B (Blackburn Instructors) tying for 2nd and Suzanne (Chastain Instructors) taking her second medal in 3rd.
The last individual event was the jump rope contest. With a surprise early elimination of last years medal winner Mari G, the contest was anyone’s to win. In just under 10 minutes Donna B from the Blackburn Instructor team scored another first place win out-skipping Sarah G from Chastain Instructors and Mandy M from Chastain Campers.
As the day wore on the only two events remaining were the 4X40 team relay and the team obstacle course. In just under a minute, the four members of each team sprinted one length of the field handing off a water bottle baton to their teammates. In a blink of the eye, Blackburn Instructors led by Josh N, Sarah D, Mari G and Chris C pulled out the gold medal repeat to hold the title of speed. Chastain Campers Team (Brett, Mike Stacia, and Ashley) came in second and Blackburn Camper team took third (Kathryn, Eileen, Bill, and Dusty).
Finishing the day was the craziest of all events – an obstacle course running up hill and including spins, hops, jumps, balance and even a bit of mountain climbing to display how well your team worked together to get to the finish line. With a start off road each team had to complete 5 rotations around a pole with their head/nose touching the pole as they spun. Off balance and dizzy, the team members then had to cross a bridge, head up stairs and up hill to the second obstacle which included weaving under a railing for 20 feet then jumping over a railing for 10 feet. If that wasn’t enough they then sprinted up the hill to another “Dizzy Lizzy” rotation station where they completed 5 additional spins then had a “tire” obstacle to maneuver before sprinting the rest of the way up the hill. At the top of the hill awaited a 30 foot low wall which each member had to walk/run across then sprint over a short distance and climb up a steep embankment all as a team. The last member to finish scored the team time. Chastain instructors took the gold in this even getting their entire team through the course in only 2 minutes and 41 seconds. Blackburn Campers came in second with Chastain Campers coming in third.
The day was finished with a mental challenge won by Chastain Campers. However this wasn’t enough to give them the win. With 7 gold medals, 6 silver medals and 4 bronze medals, Blackburn Instructors took home the win for the 2009 Olympic Games. Blackburn Campers took home second place with 2 golds, 6 silvers and 4 bronze, while Chastain Instructors came in third with 3 golds, 3 silvers and 3 bronze medals. Chastain Campers took home 2 golds, 1 silver and 3 bronze.
Congrats to every single person that participated and cheered on their teams to group and individual victory!
Monday, August 31, 2009
Saturday, June 20, 2009
A GREAT Day for The American Boot Camp Company
Dear Chris, Sean, Joe, Natalie, Ofer, Heather and Suzanne,
My sincere thanks to each of your for an amazing team effort at this mornings record setting workout. I want to share with each of you that this morning you each got to take part in a personal victory for me. Many years ago when TABCC was only a twinkle in my eye and where we are today was only a dream, I saw Atlantic Station and the “butterscotch bridge” and the concept of Urban Boot camp in Atlanta as a way to reach a huge number of people and show them that fitness is an option for the average person. The idea that a large group of people from many different backgrounds could come together and get in shape with the beautiful Atlanta skyline in the background and the hope of development in the air is something that I have always hoped could happen in our great city, as it does in New York, San Francisco and LA.
This morning, July 20, 2009, in the humid setting of summer in Atlanta, a team of instructors from four different locations, a group of people from six different boot camps and many people that have never experienced our company came together to show Atlanta that my dream was possible and is happening! As we counted down our final stretches at the end of the workout and that beautiful sound of “a group” echoed throughout the streets of Atlantic Station, you could almost hear a new era of outdoor fitness in Atlanta – Urban Boot Camp. A change from dependence on grassy fields and a new challenge for the many people in midtown that have already experienced boot camp at Piedmont Park. So thanks, Sonja, for having the guts to take Midtown into its rightful position in our organization. Thanks also to Sean for stepping up and taking on a very intimidating role. And thanks to everyone that worked together as a team this morning to show a group of 50 people that The American Boot Camp Company is back in Midtown and here to stay! Not a person would have known that the team of 8 instructors didn’t workout together every day, which makes me so proud!
In a time when everyone is struggling with bills, hustling to keep their jobs, and small businesses working day and night to keep their doors open, today was a sign of hope that with hard work, dedication and a positive outlook you can make your dreams come true and reach your goals. And after all, that’s what we are really about right – “Give us 30 days and we will help you reach your goals”. It might have taken more than 30 days, but we can check one of my goals off today!
Thanks for being part of it!
My sincere thanks to each of your for an amazing team effort at this mornings record setting workout. I want to share with each of you that this morning you each got to take part in a personal victory for me. Many years ago when TABCC was only a twinkle in my eye and where we are today was only a dream, I saw Atlantic Station and the “butterscotch bridge” and the concept of Urban Boot camp in Atlanta as a way to reach a huge number of people and show them that fitness is an option for the average person. The idea that a large group of people from many different backgrounds could come together and get in shape with the beautiful Atlanta skyline in the background and the hope of development in the air is something that I have always hoped could happen in our great city, as it does in New York, San Francisco and LA.
This morning, July 20, 2009, in the humid setting of summer in Atlanta, a team of instructors from four different locations, a group of people from six different boot camps and many people that have never experienced our company came together to show Atlanta that my dream was possible and is happening! As we counted down our final stretches at the end of the workout and that beautiful sound of “a group” echoed throughout the streets of Atlantic Station, you could almost hear a new era of outdoor fitness in Atlanta – Urban Boot Camp. A change from dependence on grassy fields and a new challenge for the many people in midtown that have already experienced boot camp at Piedmont Park. So thanks, Sonja, for having the guts to take Midtown into its rightful position in our organization. Thanks also to Sean for stepping up and taking on a very intimidating role. And thanks to everyone that worked together as a team this morning to show a group of 50 people that The American Boot Camp Company is back in Midtown and here to stay! Not a person would have known that the team of 8 instructors didn’t workout together every day, which makes me so proud!
In a time when everyone is struggling with bills, hustling to keep their jobs, and small businesses working day and night to keep their doors open, today was a sign of hope that with hard work, dedication and a positive outlook you can make your dreams come true and reach your goals. And after all, that’s what we are really about right – “Give us 30 days and we will help you reach your goals”. It might have taken more than 30 days, but we can check one of my goals off today!
Thanks for being part of it!
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Why The American Boot Camp Company is the best boot camp in Atlanta
I feel great! I just finished my 7th workout of the week and it's only Thursday. Between teaching boot camp, kickboxing, interval and core, running a business, sales, marketing and business development, I finally got a chance to workout for myself this morning at our Pinckneyville Park Boot Camp location. And man-o-man was it fun!
As I was driving home, I decided to blog about my experience in hopes that everyone reading this might be inspired to join boot camp or at least try one of our free workouts.
So I really don't LOVE working out. I would much rather go for a walk or read a book. But I do love to eat. I love wine and pizza and chocolate. I love hamburgers and pasta, too. So my battle with weight forces me to turn to exercise in order to be able to infrequently eat the things I love. Because I know that I am not the only one that feels this way, I decided to start my fitness business. But what I think many of my clients don't know is that I STILL STRUGGLE EVERY DAY. Read on to see the list of excuses that ran through my head this morning and pretty much every day and see how my awesome boot camp instructors helped me fight through and burn over 350 calories all before 7AM.
EXCUSE #1: I Can't get out of bed because...
This morning when my alarm went off at 4:40AM, my throat was sore and my nose stuffed up. I could have very easily rolled over and emailed saying I wasn't going to make it because I was under the weather. But something forced me up and as I took my first step the second excuse of the day popped up. My legs are so sore from the previous 3 days of 2 workouts a day and I can't get injured, so maybe I shouldn't go. But I continued to get ready, inspired by the countless clients I work with each month that actually do get up every day for boot camp. So I brushed my teeth, got dressed and headed out the door for my 20 minute drive to Pinckneyville Park. As I drove several more excuses came to mind, but I was already on the road so I kept going.
EXCUSE #8: I don't want anyone to see what type of shape I am in. What if I can't keep up?
As I arrived at the park, I wondered what all the other campers might be like. I wondered if they would be watching me because I am the owner of the company and I thought about what they would say if I had to modify a pushup or stop to stretch my soleus injury. So I warmed up on the curb a bit before anyone got there and I didn't volunteer my name to anyone. Being anonymous is a really cool thing. It is great that nobody else in the group knows me. And I also like that the group was big enough that I could "hide". So I convinced myself that I would try my best and the people in the group would just think I was vet or someone from another camp.
EXCUSE #11: I don't want to give 100% in the warmups because I want to have something left for my workout.
As we started off promptly at 5:45AM, I started jogging and found that it would be very easy to "take it easy" and give less than 100%. Nobody 'really' knows my fitness level and what would it matter if I held back. Then very quickly my competitive nature came out and I said to myself, "you will give 100% so you can see what you put your campers through every day". So off I went and immediately found myself toward the front of the group. Kim, led the warmup and reminded me why we start our bootcamp workouts out with a dynamic warmup. Because these types of activities really do get the body ready for the upcoming workout in a safe and super effective way! My calves got warm, my legs got warm and my heart rate elevated in a way that left me ready for more, not too tired. Great work, Kim! And while I was doing my thing, I even heard a few other instructors calling out little tips like, "Keep those stomachs pulled in" or "Keep your pace a bit slower until you get warm".
EXCUSE #12: I know I have an old injury and I don't think I can do certain parts of the workout, even though I am not currently in pain. Should I even try?
So I have a pretty bad shoulder injury from too many pushups over the years and not enough back training. I have been diligently re-habing it over the past 6 months, but I am still pretty timid about doing more than 10 pushups in a row for fear I will re-injure it. I know this is a very common feeling that many ex-athletes have and many of our boot campers that have previous injuries. Should I modify right away or give it a try? I decided to give them a try. I made a conscious decision to do as many as possible and deal with the consequences tomorrow. I knew that my shoulder is healed, but I also know that if I don't attempt to do more pushups that I won't get any stronger. This is what I call "selling yourself short". If you don't try, you can't know what you are capable of. Today I was capable of doing ALL the pushups on my toes. What an awesome feeling. It's great to prove something to yourself, even if it is one pushups at time.
EXCUSE #26: I am tired and want to rest. I just did 30 pushup and should be proud of myself.
No. That is a load of crap. Even though the thought goes through my head. As I look over at the girl next to me in the warmup, I realize that she is completely out of breath and that I am breathing OK. I can't quit. I won't quit. Then I hear Sara, one of the lead instructors, say, "Don't give up!" and I push on.
EXCUSE #29: My shoulder really does hurt.
As we progress into the workout I have decided to really give it my all. I have done a similar workout before, but really like how Karin is choosing to explain the exercises. It takes my mind off the fact that my arms hurt. And then my shoulder, just the left one, really does start feeling weaker than the right. So instead of stopping, because Kevin, who is right next to me isn't stopping, I choose to just use one arm. I think, "maybe I should stop and explain to him what is going on" and then I just keep moving. Before I know it, Karin says, "sprint!" and off I go to the fence. I realize that Kevin is right beside me and I turn on the speed. I LOVE sprinting against someone. It reminds me of the very first workout I did outdoors when I realized that working out isn't always terrible. And that I was very competitive. Thanks, Kevin, for sprinting with me and giving me a challenge!
EXCUSE #31: I can't do this exercise very well.
About half way into the boot camp workout, we started a lunge movement with a twist. My shoulder started giving out and that caused me to lose focus. It reminded me that when my clients get fatigued that they can't focus either and I should change exercises to keep them from getting dejected. As this exercise progressed, at least 10 times I wanted to just quit. But I looked around and noticed that nobody else was quitting. What a great benefit of being in a group. The motivation of the instructors participating and all the other campers out there trying their best really helped me finish the round.
NO MORE EXCUSES...
About this time, I looked at my watch and realized that we only had 10 minutes of the workout left. I couldn't believe how fast it had gone. And then I had an epiphany. I CAN GIVE 100%. And now I want to give even more! I can get through this! And I did with the help of a great team of instructors! What I love the most about Pinckneyville is that there are many different personalities to help at different times during the workout. Kurina was super chipper as soon as she walked up, Sara and Allison are tough, but always smiling. Kevin is kind, but won't let you slack. Kim is always loud and supportive. Karin is detailed and really descriptive in her explanations and Noel is super energetic and right there in the trenches with the campers.
So as I drove home, I was so excited to have completed my boot camp workout before 7AM and ready to tackle the day with a positive outlook. I thought to myself, "I truly hope that every one of my clients feels the same way when they leave camp each morning!"
I love boot camp and thanks to the entire team at Pinckneyville Park for a great workout and a wonderful reminder of how much FUN boot camp camp be!
As I was driving home, I decided to blog about my experience in hopes that everyone reading this might be inspired to join boot camp or at least try one of our free workouts.
So I really don't LOVE working out. I would much rather go for a walk or read a book. But I do love to eat. I love wine and pizza and chocolate. I love hamburgers and pasta, too. So my battle with weight forces me to turn to exercise in order to be able to infrequently eat the things I love. Because I know that I am not the only one that feels this way, I decided to start my fitness business. But what I think many of my clients don't know is that I STILL STRUGGLE EVERY DAY. Read on to see the list of excuses that ran through my head this morning and pretty much every day and see how my awesome boot camp instructors helped me fight through and burn over 350 calories all before 7AM.
EXCUSE #1: I Can't get out of bed because...
This morning when my alarm went off at 4:40AM, my throat was sore and my nose stuffed up. I could have very easily rolled over and emailed saying I wasn't going to make it because I was under the weather. But something forced me up and as I took my first step the second excuse of the day popped up. My legs are so sore from the previous 3 days of 2 workouts a day and I can't get injured, so maybe I shouldn't go. But I continued to get ready, inspired by the countless clients I work with each month that actually do get up every day for boot camp. So I brushed my teeth, got dressed and headed out the door for my 20 minute drive to Pinckneyville Park. As I drove several more excuses came to mind, but I was already on the road so I kept going.
EXCUSE #8: I don't want anyone to see what type of shape I am in. What if I can't keep up?
As I arrived at the park, I wondered what all the other campers might be like. I wondered if they would be watching me because I am the owner of the company and I thought about what they would say if I had to modify a pushup or stop to stretch my soleus injury. So I warmed up on the curb a bit before anyone got there and I didn't volunteer my name to anyone. Being anonymous is a really cool thing. It is great that nobody else in the group knows me. And I also like that the group was big enough that I could "hide". So I convinced myself that I would try my best and the people in the group would just think I was vet or someone from another camp.
EXCUSE #11: I don't want to give 100% in the warmups because I want to have something left for my workout.
As we started off promptly at 5:45AM, I started jogging and found that it would be very easy to "take it easy" and give less than 100%. Nobody 'really' knows my fitness level and what would it matter if I held back. Then very quickly my competitive nature came out and I said to myself, "you will give 100% so you can see what you put your campers through every day". So off I went and immediately found myself toward the front of the group. Kim, led the warmup and reminded me why we start our bootcamp workouts out with a dynamic warmup. Because these types of activities really do get the body ready for the upcoming workout in a safe and super effective way! My calves got warm, my legs got warm and my heart rate elevated in a way that left me ready for more, not too tired. Great work, Kim! And while I was doing my thing, I even heard a few other instructors calling out little tips like, "Keep those stomachs pulled in" or "Keep your pace a bit slower until you get warm".
EXCUSE #12: I know I have an old injury and I don't think I can do certain parts of the workout, even though I am not currently in pain. Should I even try?
So I have a pretty bad shoulder injury from too many pushups over the years and not enough back training. I have been diligently re-habing it over the past 6 months, but I am still pretty timid about doing more than 10 pushups in a row for fear I will re-injure it. I know this is a very common feeling that many ex-athletes have and many of our boot campers that have previous injuries. Should I modify right away or give it a try? I decided to give them a try. I made a conscious decision to do as many as possible and deal with the consequences tomorrow. I knew that my shoulder is healed, but I also know that if I don't attempt to do more pushups that I won't get any stronger. This is what I call "selling yourself short". If you don't try, you can't know what you are capable of. Today I was capable of doing ALL the pushups on my toes. What an awesome feeling. It's great to prove something to yourself, even if it is one pushups at time.
EXCUSE #26: I am tired and want to rest. I just did 30 pushup and should be proud of myself.
No. That is a load of crap. Even though the thought goes through my head. As I look over at the girl next to me in the warmup, I realize that she is completely out of breath and that I am breathing OK. I can't quit. I won't quit. Then I hear Sara, one of the lead instructors, say, "Don't give up!" and I push on.
EXCUSE #29: My shoulder really does hurt.
As we progress into the workout I have decided to really give it my all. I have done a similar workout before, but really like how Karin is choosing to explain the exercises. It takes my mind off the fact that my arms hurt. And then my shoulder, just the left one, really does start feeling weaker than the right. So instead of stopping, because Kevin, who is right next to me isn't stopping, I choose to just use one arm. I think, "maybe I should stop and explain to him what is going on" and then I just keep moving. Before I know it, Karin says, "sprint!" and off I go to the fence. I realize that Kevin is right beside me and I turn on the speed. I LOVE sprinting against someone. It reminds me of the very first workout I did outdoors when I realized that working out isn't always terrible. And that I was very competitive. Thanks, Kevin, for sprinting with me and giving me a challenge!
EXCUSE #31: I can't do this exercise very well.
About half way into the boot camp workout, we started a lunge movement with a twist. My shoulder started giving out and that caused me to lose focus. It reminded me that when my clients get fatigued that they can't focus either and I should change exercises to keep them from getting dejected. As this exercise progressed, at least 10 times I wanted to just quit. But I looked around and noticed that nobody else was quitting. What a great benefit of being in a group. The motivation of the instructors participating and all the other campers out there trying their best really helped me finish the round.
NO MORE EXCUSES...
About this time, I looked at my watch and realized that we only had 10 minutes of the workout left. I couldn't believe how fast it had gone. And then I had an epiphany. I CAN GIVE 100%. And now I want to give even more! I can get through this! And I did with the help of a great team of instructors! What I love the most about Pinckneyville is that there are many different personalities to help at different times during the workout. Kurina was super chipper as soon as she walked up, Sara and Allison are tough, but always smiling. Kevin is kind, but won't let you slack. Kim is always loud and supportive. Karin is detailed and really descriptive in her explanations and Noel is super energetic and right there in the trenches with the campers.
So as I drove home, I was so excited to have completed my boot camp workout before 7AM and ready to tackle the day with a positive outlook. I thought to myself, "I truly hope that every one of my clients feels the same way when they leave camp each morning!"
I love boot camp and thanks to the entire team at Pinckneyville Park for a great workout and a wonderful reminder of how much FUN boot camp camp be!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
25 Random Things from Facebook
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!
(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!
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
I really do love helping people
I know. This sounds like a load of hogwash.
But after dreaming huge, taking on unwinable battles and realizing that I am the only one that wants my dream, I stumbled upon six really big dudes. These six guys, have reminded me why I get out of bed every day and have been a catalyst for me to begin to love my job again.
And so I do. I love my job helping people reach their health and fitness goals.
I love the people that work their butts off each morning with me and I love those individuals that get up each nmorning to support and follow me into battle ( my instructors).
Their "loss" has become my gain.
But after dreaming huge, taking on unwinable battles and realizing that I am the only one that wants my dream, I stumbled upon six really big dudes. These six guys, have reminded me why I get out of bed every day and have been a catalyst for me to begin to love my job again.
And so I do. I love my job helping people reach their health and fitness goals.
I love the people that work their butts off each morning with me and I love those individuals that get up each nmorning to support and follow me into battle ( my instructors).
Their "loss" has become my gain.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Food for the spirit
Every day I educate my outdoor fitness participants about the importance of fueling their bodies with the proper nutrition. Today as I watched the womans gymastic competition that I TIVOed from last night, I remembered why the olympic competition is so important to our country and to me. I watched the faces of each young American athlete filled with determination, their nerves like steel and their bodies trained for perfection. And I thought about their paths to the Olympics. They are so young, yet they sacrifice all semblance of normal lives to reach those goals and live their dreams. Many of them don't go to regular school, or workout like regular people. Their training is their life. As an American, living my American dream, I understand that drive as many entrepreneurs do. And I am inspired by it. The dedication of these athletes and sheer will to win nourishes my spirit and reminds me to keep working hard . So today and for the rest of the month, I will watch the Olympics and take every bit of inspiration and fuel that my spirit can handle and I will put that in every thing I do. I challenge every American to do the same! Ladies and gents of the 2008 Olympic team, thanks for the inspiration!
Thursday, August 7, 2008
A taste of my own medicine
I wanted to recount an experience I had this morning at Chastain Park with each of you to remind you how awesome you are at what you do and how you constantly change peoples lives. Thank you for everything you do!
So this morning I got my butt kicked at Chastain Park, by a 23 year old instructor with a quiet demeanor and a mind like a serial killer. Oh, that’s Erin by the way – the Fuller’s Park lead instructor currently filling in at Chastain.
When I got to the park for my Thursday workout, I thought, “Oh, Fartlek – this should be fun (and in the back of my mind I also thought, fun and easy). Well I asked about what the span of the fast group was and she said the slowest was 7:15 for a mile. I thought…hmmm I might be right past that, but I’m a sprinter, I can hang…ha! That was my first mistake.
Then I say HER – my nemesis. She is a machine. I love her and hate her at the same time. She has three kids, can hold an ab bridge for 8 minutes and wins her age group (older than me) at triathlons. Amazing. Well anyway, I see her and think, “Today’s the day. I feel strong, I can beat her. (Or at least hang)”. HA! That was my second mistake.
So off we go. Erin at the front, Tiffany at the back. We did a normal warm-up down the hill and then an Indian run and then continued down the hill. Well that was the third error in my “easy fartlek” thought pattern. Guess what? Oh you know, you’re all torturing boot camp instructors. Yes, we had to Sprint back up the hill and then do some crazy frog hops and then back down for more fog hops. Shist. So I think. Ok, I got this and I take off, sprinting up the hill. Well this particular hill at Chastain is the VERY steep twisting U-turn hill that used to be pitch black, but now has lights – wonderful. (If you can’t sense the sarcasm, you should start to soon). Four repeats, pushups, squat turns and tucks jump later, I was toast. But that was only 20 minutes into the workout.
At that point I remembered how awesome support instructors can be. If it wasn’t for Tiffany, I would have gone home or sat down at least. But she was right there with me (and I wasn’t the only one – actually there were 1 or 2 dudes that took turns eating my dust –ha! At least someone did). So the next set of torture came in the form of suicides. Now I am bizarre - I hear that word and I think – I can do this. I LOVE to sprint. So off I go. Sprint 1 – I won! I beat HER! HA! Sprint 2 – She beat me down and we tied coming back. But unfortunately that is when I discovered why SHE participates in boot camp. Because she has 2X the endurance that I do. As an instructor this is where I normally stop and rest while the campers keep going. (Mental note in plan to beat HER – do one more than I want to next time). Then the pushups got harder and then next sprint got slower and then I couldn’t breathe. But that was when I heard the voice of an angel – Tiffany was right there encouraging me to keep going. And I did!
But that wasn’t it, folks, we also did more sprints, shuffles, dips, crossovers and even an Indian run on the way back. This is where I realized how awesome The AMERICAN Boot Camp Company is! Because as I was getting my butt handed to me on the way back up the hills for the final 10 minutes, my instructors wouldn’t let me quit. Oh I wanted to! But they didn’t and I didn’t and I feel Awesome today because of that. But the workout doesn’t end here. NO, remember I said Erin was a serial killer. So we get back to the lower field and that is where she destroyed me – bear crawl backwards up hill. My body wouldn’t do it. I saw stars and I actually had to stop and go forward. I officially had my butt kicked! AND I LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF IT!
So this morning I got my butt kicked at Chastain Park, by a 23 year old instructor with a quiet demeanor and a mind like a serial killer. Oh, that’s Erin by the way – the Fuller’s Park lead instructor currently filling in at Chastain.
When I got to the park for my Thursday workout, I thought, “Oh, Fartlek – this should be fun (and in the back of my mind I also thought, fun and easy). Well I asked about what the span of the fast group was and she said the slowest was 7:15 for a mile. I thought…hmmm I might be right past that, but I’m a sprinter, I can hang…ha! That was my first mistake.
Then I say HER – my nemesis. She is a machine. I love her and hate her at the same time. She has three kids, can hold an ab bridge for 8 minutes and wins her age group (older than me) at triathlons. Amazing. Well anyway, I see her and think, “Today’s the day. I feel strong, I can beat her. (Or at least hang)”. HA! That was my second mistake.
So off we go. Erin at the front, Tiffany at the back. We did a normal warm-up down the hill and then an Indian run and then continued down the hill. Well that was the third error in my “easy fartlek” thought pattern. Guess what? Oh you know, you’re all torturing boot camp instructors. Yes, we had to Sprint back up the hill and then do some crazy frog hops and then back down for more fog hops. Shist. So I think. Ok, I got this and I take off, sprinting up the hill. Well this particular hill at Chastain is the VERY steep twisting U-turn hill that used to be pitch black, but now has lights – wonderful. (If you can’t sense the sarcasm, you should start to soon). Four repeats, pushups, squat turns and tucks jump later, I was toast. But that was only 20 minutes into the workout.
At that point I remembered how awesome support instructors can be. If it wasn’t for Tiffany, I would have gone home or sat down at least. But she was right there with me (and I wasn’t the only one – actually there were 1 or 2 dudes that took turns eating my dust –ha! At least someone did). So the next set of torture came in the form of suicides. Now I am bizarre - I hear that word and I think – I can do this. I LOVE to sprint. So off I go. Sprint 1 – I won! I beat HER! HA! Sprint 2 – She beat me down and we tied coming back. But unfortunately that is when I discovered why SHE participates in boot camp. Because she has 2X the endurance that I do. As an instructor this is where I normally stop and rest while the campers keep going. (Mental note in plan to beat HER – do one more than I want to next time). Then the pushups got harder and then next sprint got slower and then I couldn’t breathe. But that was when I heard the voice of an angel – Tiffany was right there encouraging me to keep going. And I did!
But that wasn’t it, folks, we also did more sprints, shuffles, dips, crossovers and even an Indian run on the way back. This is where I realized how awesome The AMERICAN Boot Camp Company is! Because as I was getting my butt handed to me on the way back up the hills for the final 10 minutes, my instructors wouldn’t let me quit. Oh I wanted to! But they didn’t and I didn’t and I feel Awesome today because of that. But the workout doesn’t end here. NO, remember I said Erin was a serial killer. So we get back to the lower field and that is where she destroyed me – bear crawl backwards up hill. My body wouldn’t do it. I saw stars and I actually had to stop and go forward. I officially had my butt kicked! AND I LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF IT!
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