This week’s Bootcamp Diary features Mark H! After an injury sidelined him from his Brazilian Jiu-jitsu training, Mark was looking for a way to get back into shape and was inspired by some of our current members to check it out. We are so glad he did! In less than 3 weeks, Mark is already seeing fantastic results and we can’t wait to see where is after 8 weeks! Read on to hear more about Mark’s personal experience so far with our July Bootcamp.
1. What motivated you to start bootcamp?
My initial thrust to start bootcamp was seeing the results of the always beautiful Ivy Jennings. Brad Wilhelm saw results as well but you’d never know that judging by his Facebook activity and the number of tank tops he wears (love you, Brad. Smooches!). Five years ago I had two surgeries on my L4/L5 intervertebral disc. At that time I was training Brazilian Jiu-jitsu almost daily. BJJ was my mistress. I was a 175 pound, lean fighting machine. Then my spine had enough. The surgeries, subsequent rehab, and new physical limitations led to a 40 pound weight gain. The lifestyle of not changing my diet or drinking habits coupled with seeing Ivy and Brad’s awesome transformations led me to finally pull off the band-aid and take my health seriously.
2. Describe your bootcamp experience so far.
The experience has been great. The first couple of days were a little daunting. However, my body and taste buds changed over the course the first two days. I didn’t miss salt, sugar, or other rich and tasty treats as much as I thought I would. I’m on my 18th day as of this writing and I feel amazing. I feel energized and satisfied after meals instead of lethargic and sleepy. I wake up every morning without the groggy, foggy head I experienced only weeks ago. My first weigh-in was a few days ago after 14 days on the plan and I lost 9.2 pounds and 1 inch off of my waist. These results would keep me motivated and committed even if I didn’t like the diet or exercise. The bootcamp plan is also not as difficult as it seemed at first. I LOVE the fact that my meals and exercise requirements are spelled out for me so clearly.
3. What’s been your favorite part so far?
My favorite part so far are the group classes. Entering any new group or social circle can feel like the first day at a new school. I’ve never felt that way at NGPT. People of all ages and fitness levels are sweating, grunting, and cursing Sabra (a fitness coach at NGPT) for those blasted burpees she so sadistically requires. Anybody nervous or apprehensive about working out in a group setting will quickly forget those fears once they start sweating. I promise.
4. What has been the most surprising part of bootcamp?
The most surprising part of bootcamp for me has been the results. That may seem trite but it’s the truth. I’m not only talking about the measureables of weight, waistline, or body fat percentage loss. The most unanticipated results for me are the improvements to energy levels and mental health. It takes so much more for me to feel frustrated or angry. I have energy to work 8-10 hours, exercise, and have a social life. I’m like a bad dog: I need to be ran ragged everyday so I don’t misbehave or eat the garbage. Bootcamp is the game of fetch to my hyper, angry Fido.
5. What has been the most challenging part of bootcamp?
The most challenging part of bootcamp has been meal planning. The requirement of eating every three hours, 5 times per day requires planning and dedication. I even have the advantage of working at a restaurant where lean protein and vegetables are everywhere. Still, I would not be able to eat the right food at the right time without prior planning. I also believe that this meal spacing is the main factor in my sustained energy throughout the day. Another challenge has been completing seven burpees in the middle of my set of ten burpees which were demanded of me because Sabra’s lifeforce is drawn from my sweat and tears.
6. How has your interaction been with your coaching team and the NGPT community?
This is a tough question because I’m not a skilled enough writer to capture my feelings. The coaching staff is inspirational, they genuinely care about members, and are goofy while remaining demanding. I’ve been exposed to exercises I never encountered in all of my days in sports. They will make a lighthearted quip that makes you smile and forget that your legs are numb and you should probably have second heart to do things you’re doing. They are also demanding. Technique corrections are always given with a respectful, caring tone. The bootcamp title doesn’t mean you have R. Lee Ermey screaming in your face.
My fellow bootcampers are just as inspiring and amazing. The range of age, fitness level, and experience is vast. Everyone is at NGPT for the same reason. The culture at the gym makes you feel that you can ask the person at the station next to you what a “thruster” is and not feel silly. You can draw mettle from the seasoned bootcamper who has lost 80 pounds or the new bootcamper at their first class. You can roll your eyes at Sabra together because, well, more burpees. We’re in this together and not for a second has anyone made me feel differently.
We just want to say thanks to Mark for giving us a glimpse into his Bootcamp experience so far. Whether it’s your first Bootcamp or your 20th Bootcamp we know that one of the best things about NGPT is drawing inspiration from each other. Maybe something Mark said has inspired you. And oh yea, be sure to encourage Sabra to give Mark a few more burpees to do. He seems to really enjoy those. Keep an eye out for the next entry in the Bootcamp Diary!
