The Advantages of Boot Camps
The term "boot camp" has evolved to mean something entirely different than its original definition. Today we use the term loosely to identify a rigorous or intensive training program in anything from computer training to weight loss.
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Types
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The first definition listed by freedictionary.com is that boot camp is a military training program. From movies, television and possibly our own or a family member or friend's experience, we visualize boot camp as an intense, rigorous, physically, psychologically and emotionally challenging program that forces someone to improve or give up. The advantages to military training boot camp is that if a soldier passes through this process, he is stronger and more equipped to take on the stress and challenges of combat. The military boot camp graduate also has been instructed and indoctrinated in military expectations and culture.
The second most popular idea in our culture regarding boot camps is that they are a modified version of military training camps for troubled youth or minor criminals. This type of boot camp operates on the theory that the discipline, hard work and physically demanding environment will strengthen and help develop those on the wrong track.
Still another definition used today is that of an intensive training of any kind. Information technology specialists and others can attend training "boot camps." The advantages to this kind of boot camp is that the training is shorter than other types of training; more drills and repetition are involved and the program is rigorous, intensive and challenging.
History
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The history of boot camps in all fields is that it takes the model of basic training in the military and modifies it to suit the needs of the situation. It has been used in the field of corrections as an alternative to a more severe sentence. This type of boot camp was originally developed in Georgia, in 1983 (http://www.oppapers.com/essays/History-Boot-Camps/25906). They have become a popular alternative sanction for nonviolent offenders in the United States. Research is still being done to determine their effectiveness.
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Effects
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Imani Dawson, in an article entitled "Boot Camp Benefits: My New Exercise Routine Has Changed My Life," writes: "Although the six-week program is grueling, it's forced me to tap into a reservoir of discipline I didn't know I had" (http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0846/is_3_25/ai_n15775904/). Dawson and others feel the intensity and rigorous training environment refine their abilities to cope with stress, to manage their time more efficiently, to stay with a healthful lifestyle and program and to maintain their focus on their fitness goals.
Expert Insight
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Although health and fitness have been a major source of inspiration and focus in the United States for decades now, experts say that the overall impact of weight loss programs has not been significant in reducing or abating the obesity epidemic in this country.( http://www.free-press-release.com/news/200901/1231386118.html) It is becoming clear to one New Jersey fitness expert that fitness boot camps were the number one option for intense weight loss and weight management in 2009. One of the reasons is that it is more cost effective for people than a one-to-one personal trainer format.
Considerations
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As with any fitness program, always consult with your physician before taking on a fitness boot camp. Other types of boot camps for business, career training or correctional purposes may be options you hadn't considered before. The shorter time period and intense focus can often produce results that are beneficial and more profound that you could achieve in other training programs.
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