Burn BootCamp

It's mid-February, which means that a lot of those New Years Resolutions have faded into the background, and you might be feeling a little bit of guilt about it. But what if you could start something tomorrow that would jumpstart them again? 

A week ago, I started Burn BootCamp, a workout facility for women and moms, and I am amazed at the difference it has made in my life in such a short amount of time. My body has been through a lot in the past year - my car was hit twice in 4 days, and I injured my ankle so bad on a vacation that I had to use a wheelchair the rest of the time. But I'm finally back up to speed, so Erin Studdard, the owner and head trainer at BBC, encouraged me to come in and give it a try. Burn BootCamp is located in the heart of SoDu, at Greenwood Commons Shopping Center, where the SoDu Farmers Market is, on Hwy 55. 

(exterior photo from Yelp review)

First we sat down and talked about my goals for my life, not just about my body. We talked about nutrition and meal planning, and she gave me great recipes. I set a weight loss goal of pounds but what was more important was what I want to gain. I want to not feel winded when running around with my kids, I want to have energy to do the things that need to get done, I want to feel strong and capable, I want my clothes to fit better, I want to be an example for my children on how to take care of my body, I want to better my health for my future. It's so much more than a number. Erin and I sat for the longest time talking about dreams and how to accomplish them. She said "Your goals are my goals!" So we came up with a plan of how much to work towards losing each week, what my caloric goal would be, how to focus on nutrients and protein and so much more. 

Then the next day I dropped my daughter off at school and came to camp. One big misnomer about bootcamp fitness is that it's too hard or that the trainers are drill sergeants. Couldn't be further from the truth. First of all, it's for women only. This in and of itself puts me at ease. The women I see working out are all shapes and sizes. Some of us are brand new, some have been coming a long time. The music is upbeat, the atmosphere is fun. All of them support each other, and there is absolutely no judgement. I felt so powerful, my heart rate was up, and I was sweating. We did circuit training, where each station has it's own unique exercise and members cycle through them. I've been a total of 4 times now and no workout has been the same. Some days they'll focus on calisthenics, some days it'll just be arms, but each day has a warm up component as well as cool down and stretching.

The facility itself is very open, with soft mat floors (instead of concrete like you'll see some places), inspirational quotes on the walls, and of course, equipment galore, like ropes, weights, and blocks for jumping. There is also a bathroom, complete with shower in case you have to clean up afterwards and can't get home. 

Burn BootCamp also has childcare available, which is a huge selling point for me. It's not available for all times, but for the most popular, and there's lots for kids to do in their own area, including toys, an old school arcade game, books, and TV. The babysitters are always so nice and capable. Plus there's a big one way mirror so you can peek in at your littles if you wish when catching your breath!

(childcare room photo from Yelp review)

I was pretty sore after the first day but then got the hang of it as soon as a routine started. I've also been shopping and eating smarter. Erin reached out to check up on me and said, "I told you that your goals became my goals!" Now I gotta say it's a habit. I love how energized it leaves me afterwards, and how I already feel better about myself. I know what my body is capable of and how I can make my goals for 2016 happen. 

If you're interested in joining me at Burn BootCamp, just drop Erin a note on BBC's facebook page where you can sign up for a free trial. Just mention that Kat sent you!

But best of all, you can try out BBC right now with an awesome Groupon deal. It's $29.75 for one month of unlimited boot-camp classes for one - but hurry, the deal expires at the end of today (Monday the 15th)! If you're reading this after the groupon deal expires, still contact Erin and I'm sure she can get you in. 

And if you want to follow my journey as I work towards my dreams, please check out future blog posts on our sister blog, soduparentsposse.com.

The details:
Burn BootCamp
5410 NC Hwy 55, Suite AA, Durham
919-525-6404
durham.burnbootcamp.com
facebook.com/BurnBootcampDurham

What we liked: I love that no two workouts are the same and that I never know what to expect. I also like knowing that Erin and the other trainers will modify workouts based on injuries or ability. I love the energy and songs to keep me having fun and focused.

What we'd change: Can't think of anything! I'm having a blast!

FTC Required Disclosure: Burn BootCamp has given me the opportunity to try the camp at no cost to me so that I could write a more accurate review. However, I have written my honest opinion about how much I love this boot camp, and would have been willing to pay for it out of my own pocket! Additionally, the link to the groupon deal is an affiliate link and I may receive compensation towards my groupon account for the referral. Lastly, if people sign up for BBC and note me as the referral, I receive compensation for said referral.