Some people view Memorial Day as the start of summer, and celebrate with beers and a BBQ. But Memorial Day is a day to remember those who were lost serving our country. There are men and women who spend the day grieving their loved ones and we should respect this day as more than just a day off.

Soldiers of our Armed Forces go through strenuous physical and mental experiences in basic training to prepare them for the physical and mental demands of their job. The idea of this training has spread to civilians who are looking for a workout of the same caliber. Boot camps have become a growing trend in the fitness world and their intensity is worth a try.

Boot camp is based on the military basic training. It includes fast-paced circuit training with little rest time to build strength and endurance. Boot Camps have gained popularity because it works every muscle group and you can do them anywhere. Boot camps include fat burning cardio exercises like planks, mountain climbers, and sit ups to work the core muscles. They work your arm muscles with push-ups, walking planks, and bicep curls and triceps kickbacks done with weights. And you can skip leg and butt day with the amount of squats and lunges incorporated.

If you want to quick start your lifestyle goals, boot camp is a great way burst onto the scene. But heed these warnings if you think you might be interested. If you don't like to sweat, it's not for you. Boot Camps are more beneficial if you go full steam. You should include a warm-up and cool down in your routine to avoid injuries. Make sure to follow the instructions exactly so you don't end up pulling or straining something. Boot camps aren't recommended if you have arthritis, knee, or back pain because the exercises are hard on joints. Bottom line is depending on what phase of life you in, you have to be smart. If you are over 40 years old, be smart.

If you think you'd like to try it, the cardio and aerobic aspects of the workout burn calories, lower blood sugar, help lower blood pressure and cholesterol. This can reduce your risk for diabetes and heart disease. The training also increases your flexibility with stretching exercises and yoga moves.

Boot camps are great place to connect with others in a group setting. The team atmosphere can motivate you to push harder and seeing the same faces keeps you accountable.

Give boot camps a chance and get a glimpse of what recruits go through. Check out our Semi-Private Training, 1 on 1 Training if you really want to make things happen. You'll be doing yourself and your health a great service.