Feeling the need to establish an exercise regime of some sort (for my lack thereof over the past several years) I decided to sign up for Outdoor Fitness Boot Camp. Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings, instructors Joline Vasallo and Michelle Fraser lead our group through drills that include cardio, weights, jump rope, and it all takes place out in the fresh air, rain or shine.
“Boot Camp” is not intended to be an intimidating title; it is not militaristic or grueling. Well, not militaristic anyway. It is geared for all fitness levels and there are options for those who need more of a challenge and options for those of us who feel their contorted facial expressions in the rest of their rusty muscles. The instructors will push you to your limit, but you ultimately determine what that limit is. Joline, who has been instructing fitness for about 4 years, was approached by Michelle to do something different, and bring the workout out of the gym. “I’ve always looked up to Michelle, so I was honoured to team up with her for this.” Michelle is well revered for her knowledgeable instruction and infectious energy.
The pair led their first Boot Camp earlier this spring, followed by a summer session. The response was overwhelming. The fall session is the third round, 2 weeks of the 6-week session complete thus far. About two dozen or so people take to the Baille Aird trails and Wentworth Park each week. If you prefer the shelter of a roof, Joline offers group power and spin classes at Platinum Fitness and the local family YMCA. Michelle also teaches Cardio and toning at the French School, and is part of the Zumba team.
I like being out in the open air. The boot camp is fun, challenging, rewarding, and it does both the body and the mind a load of good. Both instructors are awesome. If you are interested in committing to the rest of the fall boot camp train, or interested in any future sessions, contact Michelle at 567-0893 or michelles_fitness@hotmail.com or Joline at jvassallo@ns.sympatico.ca.
