How do you find the time to workout?

When I talk about my Burn Boot Camp workouts, the most common questions I get are about how I find the time to get to the gym. I’ll admit with four kids and a full-time job as an administrator at an elementary school, it can be tough. There are some weeks where I can commit more days to working out than others, but the short answer is because I just feel better when I’m getting to the gym regularly.

Most of the time I like to get my workout done at 5:00 am before the day starts throwing things at me that might derail my workout time. Other days my afternoons are free of meetings and all of the boys’ activities and I can catch a late afternoon/early evening camp. Burn Boot Camp offers tons of times in between too. So whether you work at home and like to do a mid-morning workout or like to get out of the office for a noon camp, you have plenty of options. Burn Boot Camp Bentonville offers 10 camp times each week day and three times plus yoga on Saturdays.

I am more consistent with my workouts when I look at the week ahead and decide which days I will get it done. Burn headquarters releases the workouts for the upcoming week each Sunday. I look at my calendar and the types of workouts they are offering that week and decide on a plan.

I’ve learned that I feel better and have a lower stress level when I get to the gym regularly so I prioritize it. Having a gym like Burn that offers flexible camp times, no cancellation fees, and has the creativity to keep it interesting and fun makes it a lot easier to be consistent with workouts.

Check out Burn Boot Camp Bentonville, or a location near you, today!

This is a sponsored post, but reflects my honest feelings about Burn Boot Camp after four years as a proud member. 

Why Wait Until the New Year?

 Every year about this time, I start thinking about what goals I want to accomplish in the upcoming year. January always feels like good time to “get back on track.” The new year brings a renewed motivation and hope for things to come. As the year goes on, life happens. Often resolutions are set aside and goals seem harder to meet.
This year I’ve decided to commit to myself during the busy month of December instead of waiting for 2022 to roll around. I feel like if I can get into good habits now, when life is more hectic, I will be setting myself up to actually stick to my plans for the new year. I’m just really getting back to the gym after a long recovery from surgery. It’s been hard to be mentally focused when my body just hasn’t felt normal yet. I’m tempted to say, “I’ll get back at it next year” but there’s no better time than now.
If you are looking for a way to commit to your health and fitness and put yourself first for a change, I encourage you to do a free 7-day trial at Burn Boot Camp Bentonville this month. You can try out all the member benefits (like unlimited camps, free child watch, and focus meetings with a trainer) and see if it’s right for you. If you love it as much as I do, you can put a membership on your Christmas list this year!
You can check out Burn Boot Camp Bentonville’s social media pages to learn more about what the gym is like. You will see lots of celebrating members, encouraging advice from trainers, and a gym family that is obviously so fun to be a part of.
Make this a December to remember by getting an early start on your goals for the new year. Check out Burn Bentonville or a location near you today!

This is a sponsored post, but reflects my honest feelings about Burn Boot Camp after four years as a proud member. 

Join the Burn Boot Camp Family

You’re too thin. You’re too heavy. You haven’t run since high school. Trust me, I completely understand. Walking into a gym is intimidating for most of us. There are so many reasons that starting a new workout routine can be hard to commit to.

When I first considered starting Burn Boot Camp Bentonville I was more than a little nervous. I hadn’t worked out in years and the thought of anyone seeing how out of shape I was almost stopped me from walking through the doors. I worried I’d be the biggest or slowest person there. I had no idea how to lift weights properly, how to use any other equipment, or if I could even do one push-up.

I’m not really sure what I thought would happen. Maybe that people would look down on me for being overweight. Maybe that I would embarrass myself by not knowing how to do the movements correctly. Maybe that I would just plain fail and give up the idea all together.

Well, friends let me tell you…all of those worries were put to rest the very first time I stepped onto the floating floor at Burn. I can honestly say that in four years I have never felt anything but complete acceptance and support when I’m there. It really is a judgement-free zone.

The support I’ve received from the trainers and other members is remarkable.

Burn members are wonderfully diverse. We all have different goals. Some of us would like to lose weight. Some are hoping to gain some by adding more muscle. Some are hoping to increase overall fitness to help accomplish running goals or to manage health conditions. The best part is that even though our goals are unique, the guidance and support we get at Burn meets all of our needs. Every member has access to focus meetings to discuss diet and lifestyle factors, skilled trainers to guide them through the workouts, and a community of positive people cheering them along the way.

I can’t believe that my insecurities almost kept me from joining the Burn Bentonville family. I would have missed out on one of my favorite things. I look forward to going to Burn every time because I know what’s waiting for me there. I know I will be encouraged to push through even the most difficult workouts by smiles, high-fives, and a so much positivity.

If you’re ready to step out of your comfort zone and see if Burn is what you are looking for, head to burnbootcamp.com to try out Burn Bentonville free for 7 days, or to find a location near you.

This is a sponsored post, but reflects my honest feelings about Burn Boot Camp after four years as a proud member. 

Burn Boot Camp Bentonville Turns 4!

Burn Boot Camp Bentonville has been changing lives in Northwest Arkansas for four years. When you walk into the gym, one of the first things you will see is an entire wall devoted to sharing the transformation stories of people across the country who changed their lives with the support of the Burn Boot Camp community. Over 20 of the transformation stories you’ll see on the wall happened right here at the Bentonville location. It’s truly inspiring to read each unique story.

Ericka says, “I have lost 33 pounds, down 6 inches in my waist and down 9.5% in body fat. I now have definition in my body. I feel stronger, my clothes fit differently and I now have confidence in what I am able to do. Most importantly, I now feel that I can be a role model to my daughter and teach her how to become a confident, strong and healthy woman.”

So what is it that makes members of Burn Boot Camp decide to keep coming back week after week, month after month, year after year? I think the answer is that it’s different for every person. You can use the resources provided to you at Burn to reach the goals that matter to you.

Here’s what some fellow Burn Boot Camp Bentonville members had to say about what this gym community means to them:

What is your favorite thing about Burn?

“I love the friends I’ve made. The support they give on and off the floor. Getting messages when I’ve been absent to check on me.” Lisa, member 18 months

“I love everything about it. It’s changed my mindset and I feel healthier and happier.” Kate, member for 7 weeks

“I love the challenge of the workouts and I am amazed I remain focused doing virtual Burn workouts in our garage for the past 14 months.” Lynelle, member for 2 years

Celebration is a huge part of the community at Burn. Whether you are reaching a camp milestone, setting a new PR, or you have great focus meeting results, you are always recognized and celebrated by your gym family.

What are you most proud of yourself for accomplishing in your Burn journey so far?

“Most proud of continuing camp through my entire 2nd pregnancy! The encouragement and modifications made a huge difference for me, mentally and physically.” Christina, member for 2 years

“I am proud of my physical transformation during my time here, but most proud of my mental transformation. I came into Burn wanting to lose weight and now I don’t focus on the weight and my goal is to be strong and be a good example for my children.” Shelby, member for over 2 years

“For the first time in my 40 years of life, I have a mindset of being strong rather than skinny.” Alison, member for 2 years

If I’m being honest, when I first joined I wouldn’t have ever thought I would still be at Burn Bentonville four years later. Sticking with a gym routine never seemed like something I could do. I’ve had to be out of the gym a few times with injuries and surgeries over the years and I’m always amazed at how much I miss it every time. There’s something so exciting about being able to push your body and relieve your stress while surrounded by people who genuinely want you to reach your goals. Who knew that a gym could turn into your happy place?

Here’s to four years of the best gym in Northwest Arkansas, and to all the people who have put themselves first and worked hard toward their goals. If you are looking to make a change, stop by Burn Boot Camp Bentonville to check out the transformation stories on the wall and start imagining your picture up there next to all those amazing Burn members. You just never know who might be inspired by your story.

Visit burnbootcamp.com today to get started with a free 7-day trial!

This is a sponsored post, but reflects my honest feelings about Burn Boot Camp after three years as a proud member.

 

 

FAQ: Burn Boot Camp Bentonville

I’ve been sharing my love for everything about Burn Boot Camp for almost four years now. It has had a huge impact on my life and so many other members across the country. I’ve found when I mention Burn to others, everyone generally asks me the same few questions. Here are my personal responses to those most frequently asked questions based on the Bentonville, Arkansas location:

What times are the camps? Can I fit it in with my busy schedule? Camp times are offered at a variety of times Monday through Saturday. Each day begins with a 5:00 am express camp, then continues with camp times throughout the morning. You can also attend the noon camp, or get in on an afternoon camp starting at 4:30. On Saturday you can attend at 7, 8, or 9:00 am with yoga being offered at 10:00 am.

I haven’t worked out in years. Do I need to get in shape a little before I join? Burn is just right for all fitness levels! I hadn’t worked out consistently for several years before I headed to my first camp. I was so nervous, but quickly realized that the trainers always explain how to modify the exercises to meet your needs. I have never once felt judged for having to modify to make an exercise easier. The cool thing is that before you know it you might even be trying the trainer’s suggestions for how to make the exercises more challenging. Whether you are a beginner, or have been on your fitness journey for a long time, you can find a safe, supportive environment at Burn Boot Camp.

Is it expensive? I get it. Committing to a gym membership is a big decision. What I love about Burn is how inclusive it is of everything I need to accomplish my goals. First and foremost you get personal training in a group setting. Yes, really! The trainers are circulating the floor to correct improper form, to help you modify if needed, and to push you to your best workout. Burn also provides nutritional guidance through one-on-one focus meetings with the trainers. Childwatch is included in your membership as well. Those things alone are well worth the cost to me. My favorite bonus benefit of having a membership is being a part of such a supportive community of like-minded people. We are all on our own health and fitness journeys, but it truly feels like we are a team at Burn Boot Camp Bentonville. Everything from the way we cheer each other on in camp to the way everyone interacts in such an uplifting manner in the members-only Facebook group keeps me motivated to keep coming back week after week.

If you’ve been considering coming to Burn Boot Camp to try it out, now is the time. A new promotion just launched and you can get 4 weeks for only $69! This is the perfect way to start putting yourself first and prioritizing your health and fitness by adding Burn to your routine.

Sign-up HERE today! Let me know if you have any questions or need any other information before you get started.

This is a sponsored post, but reflects my honest feelings about Burn Boot Camp after three years as a proud member.

Burn Boot Camp: A Family Gym

In 2017 I decided I wanted to join a gym because I needed to start focusing on my health. I realized that if I was going to be able to be the best for my kids, I needed to put myself first. At the time I had three young children (our crew has now grown by one more) and thinking of arranging childcare so I could workout regularly seemed impossible. With two full-time working parents, lots of evening activities for the boys, and all the work that happens after bedtime to get ready for the next day I didn’t know how I could juggle anything else.

I visited several gyms to see what my options might be. Some had classes I was interested in, but no childcare was offered. Some had childcare but wanted a significant extra fee for the service. A couple gyms just didn’t seem to have a great set-up to provide a safe and structured environment that would give me peace of mind while I worked out.

That’s when I came across Burn Boot Camp Bentonville. Of course I loved the workouts, having a personal trainer in a group setting, and the flexibility of the class schedules, but if I’m being honest what made me join as a member was the way my children are cared for at Burn. I’ve never felt guilty or worried about them when I drop them off at the child watch room to focus on myself for 45 minutes a day. Not only are they safe and happy in the childwatch room, but they are truly made to feel like they are a part of the Burn family. It’s not just my gym, but our family’s gym.

My boys enjoying a holiday event for Burn members and their families.

There are always fun events for the kids to look forward to. Whether it’s a family Christmas celebration, the yearly anniversary party, or just a fun themed-craft to do for a holiday, the kids are always included in the gym community. Burn even offers kids camps occasionally so the little ones can get on the floating floor and show the grown-ups how strong and fast they are too.

The kids love to get on the floating floor and workout with the trainers too.

Four years later and my kids are still happy to hop in the car and head to “our” gym every single time. Childwatch is included in my membership fee each month. I can take one of my kids or all four and never pay an extra charge. Burn has done a great job with the children during Covid as well. They limit the number of kids who can be in the childwatch room and follow all safety and sanitization protocols.

Childwatch room at Burn Boot Camp Bentonville

All members of the family can truly find a home at Burn Boot Camp. On any given day you will find people working out alongside their husbands, daughters, and mothers. You’ll find newborns to pre-teens enjoying the childwatch room and being a part of their parent’s health journey.

The community at Burn Boot Camp Bentonville is full of people from all different stages of life. You certainly don’t have to be a parent to fall in love with Burn, but if you are you will find a place that you feel supported and understood as a busy Mom or Dad who is balancing family and fitness.

Visit burnbootcamp.com today to sign-up for a free 7-day trial at Burn Boot Camp Bentonville or another location near you.

This is a sponsored post, but reflects my honest feelings about Burn Boot Camp after three years as a proud member.

Become a Better Version of Yourself at Burn Boot Camp

Before committing to and sticking with an exercise plan I had so many excuses as to why I just couldn’t make it work. There’s never a dull moment with four kids and a full-time job, and I really didn’t know how I could add anything else to my schedule. I also hated the thought of missing out on any more time with the kids each day. Not to mention the cost of finding childcare while I worked out. As soon as I tried Burn Boot Camp Bentonville, I knew they really had answers for all the excuses I made for not working out regularly.

Burn Boot Camp Bentonville offers camp times starting at 5:00 am and running through 6:30pm. The 5:00 am is an express camp that lasts 30 minutes instead of the usual 45 minutes so you can still get in a great workout if you have to be at work at an early hour. They also offer morning camps on Saturday as well as one yoga session. This provides all the flexibility that I need to make sure my workouts fit in around whatever is on the agenda for the day. I like to plan what camp times I’ll attend at the beginning of the week, so I know which days I’ll go in before work, and which days the afternoon camps will work better.

Burn Boot Camp Bentonville also offers free child watch to all members. My boys absolutely love it! The child watch staff even goes above and beyond to make special crafts with the kids all the time. The coolest part is that my kids get to go to the gym with me so they can see me making fitness and health a priority. I hope that will help them set healthy habits they will continue as they grow up. The staff at Burn makes my kids feel like they are truly part of the gym family. Occasionally there are workouts scheduled for the kids and the trainers give them a chance to see what they’ve got on the floating floor. That’s always a highlight of being a Burn kid!

Another thing I love about Burn Boot Camp is that I can sign up for a focus meeting every few weeks to discuss my goals and progress. A trainer records my measurements and talks through my diet. We discuss what is going well and what I’m struggling with. Sometimes I haven’t made the progress I wanted to between focus meetings, but I always leave with clear goals that I feel like I can work toward. Focus meetings are the best way to stay motivated and accountable.

Probably the single greatest thing about Burn is that even after over three years of attending camps, I’ve never felt bored with the workouts. When they say that you never do the same workout twice it’s actually true. Every Sunday Burn headquarters releases the weekly workout protocol so you can see what the week will hold. An example of what you might see in a typical week includes leg day, metabolic conditioning, athletic conditioning, arm day, core conditioning, and a wide variety of other cardio and strength exercises. Each workout is designed to push you out of your comfort zone and help you to get a little bit stronger every time.

Of course with Covid requirements some things are a little different than usual at Burn. I can’t say enough how much I appreciate the way the staff has worked to ensure the health and safety of all members. We each have a marked off area on the floor to make sure we are properly distanced during the workouts. Sanitizer wipes are provided to wipe down any equipment you use. Burn also regularly brings in a sanitization company to spray down all surfaces and equipment throughout the gym. For now, camps are scheduled on an app to maintain a safe amount of members in each camp. It’s easy to do and there are always plenty of camp times available to sign up for. When you arrive at the gym, your temperature is taken and you are asked the Covid screening questions required for gyms to be open at this time. The few adjustments that have been made haven’t impacted the intensity and challenging nature of the workouts one bit.

A glimpse at a typical pre-Covid workout. High energy and lots of motivation from fellow Burn members.

I’ve had setbacks here and there during my journey, and most recently I’ve been out for three months to recover from a shoulder injury. Every time I’m out of my routine at Burn Bentonville, I can’t wait to get back to it. I actually miss the workouts and the consistency I have at Burn. Why have I stayed committed to Burn Boot Camp Bentonville for over three years? I really believe that it is because the mentality at Burn is so different than a lot of gyms. I feel like the owner and the trainers take a personal interest in my health and happiness. They take the time to know what is going on with me both at the gym and in the rest of my life.

Ultimately I know what I need to do. I know what works for me and for all kinds of women and men across the country who share my love for Burn Boot Camp. I need to set my goals, get refocused on my why, plan for consistent workouts, and utilize all the tools that Burn provides for me. I can’t wait to start seeing progress again and seeing what all I can accomplish in the next phase of my journey at Burn Boot Camp. The best part is that you can join me! If you want to truly feel supported on a journey to a happier, healthier you then reach out to Burn Bentonville today and ask about a free trial. You can try it with no obligation and find out why it might be just the thing you are looking for.

If you don’t live near the Bentonville, Arkansas location head over to https://burnbootcamp.com/ to browse the list of nearly 300 locations across the country.

This is a sponsored post, but reflects my honest feelings about Burn Boot Camp after three years as a proud member.

Local Business Feature: Northwest Nutrition & Energy

It’s no secret that small businesses have been through it over the last several months. The pandemic hit them hard and they still need our support to bounce back from some challenging times. I’m so happy to share that even in these tough times, Northwest Arkansas is home to an exciting new business!

The sweet owners of Northwest Nutrition & Energy reached out to me and I was thrilled to hear what that have to offer to the community. I stopped in to their location at Village on the Creeks in Rogers, and had a great experience. The atmosphere was so inviting, the owners were so kind and friendly, and the variety of nutritional drinks was awesome. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to order, so they took the time to explain the options and helped me find just the right thing for me.

They have drinks you’ll love whether you are looking for a meal replacement full of protein or a delicious tea with some energy to get you through a long day. When I asked them what they loved most about their business, Jarrett and Kayle Scott said “We call our business a Nutrition Club! We take pride in our inviting atmosphere, encouraging wellness coaching, and great product. When you come into our nutrition club you can expect to leave happier and healthier!” The Scotts actually started out as customers and loved it so much they decided to get into the nutrition business and chase their own dream.

Another special thing about Northwest Nutrition & Energy is that they love giving back to the community. Check out their Facebook and Instagram pages for special deals each week. My favorite happens to be Teacher Tuesday, when all my fellow teachers out there can enjoy a great discount. Right now you can even place and order for delivery! See their social media pages for details.

If you are looking to get focused on your nutrition, love to try new healthy options, or just enjoy supporting small businesses then swing by Northwest Nutrition & Energy to meet Jarrett and Kayle and grab a delicious, healthy treat!

I Got More than “In Shape” at Burn Boot Camp

18 months ago I woke up at 4:15am and drove to a new gym for it’s opening day. I was so nervous as I pulled into the parking lot. I had been jogging a couple days a week off and on for a few years, but it had been years since I attempted to really workout.

My, at the time nine, four, and one-year-old boys kept my life running at a frantic pace. Combine that with teaching full-time, and I couldn’t see how I could add anything else to my schedule. My husband and I were lucky to throw something together for dinner and not give in to eating out. We weren’t taking time to prepare meals in advance to help us make healthier choices. One day my husband decided to make some big changes in his diet and began exercising. It got me thinking that I really needed to do the same.

I can actually remember exactly the moment I knew I needed to make a change in my lifestyle. For our fifteenth anniversary, my husband and I took our first big vacation together and traveled to Costa Rica. We had the opportunity to repel down a beautiful 135 ft. waterfall. It was probably the most exciting and terrifying thing I had ever done. I got to the bottom of the waterfall and the man holding the rope pointed to a steep rock wall that I needed to climb to get back on the path. I made several attempts, but struggled to pull myself up enough to even begin climbing. There I was at the bottom of a waterfall looking up at my husband and friends who had climbed the wall easily and I was defeated.

I was overweight, out of breath, and had barely any upper body strength. Four pregnancies, including carrying and ultimately losing triplets that were born too soon, wreaked havoc on my body and my confidence in my body’s ability. I hadn’t taken care of myself and now I was paying for it. Somehow I managed to struggle my way to the top. In that moment, I promised myself that I was going to make some changes. I wanted to be stronger, healthier, and I wanted to become a better example for my sons. I wanted them to see both of their parents taking care of themselves and making healthy choices.

A week later, I hesitantly walked into that 5:00 am class at Burn Boot Camp Bentonville and I haven’t looked back once. Now I rearrange my schedule, wake up super early a few times a week, and often rush out of work to grab the kids and head to the gym. I’m not any less busy than I was before (I even have four boys now because we recently adopted a beautiful baby boy!) but I make gym time a priority. For me, Burn Boot Camp is the right fit. It offers everything that a busy woman needs in a gym. I have lost weight and inches, gained so much strength, and accomplished goals I never thought I would, but Burn Boot Camp gives me so much more.

I’m comfortable at my gym. There is no certain type of women that work out at Burn Boot Camp. In the middle of a workout, I look around and easily spot women from all walks of life and all fitness levels. I’ve never once felt out of place or like anyone is judging me. When I started, I couldn’t do one single push-up on my toes and had to step out every single burpee. Of course I felt embarrassed, but the trainers were kind and always explained how to modify each move so that everyone in the room was getting their best workout. Before long, I began taking risks and trying to do the full moves without modifying down. The physical strength I have gained in the last year and a half amazes me, but the fact that I have felt comfortable to stay at this gym means everything.

Surprisingly enough, I actually look forward to working out everyday. The workout has never been the same twice. Each week new workout protocols are released at Burn Boot Camp locations across the country. They are always unique and challenging. I get excited each Sunday when I see the workout posted for the upcoming week. For me, this has greatly reduced my feelings of burnout or boredom with my workouts. I actually get super disappointed when I have to miss a day at the gym because I don’t want to miss out on any “good” days. Each week targets all the major muscle groups. In a week at Burn, you could experience leg day, arm day, athletic conditioning, plyometrics, metabolic conditioning, and other great, targeted workouts.

Another thing I love about Burn Boot Camp is that I can sign up for a focus meeting every few weeks, or as often as I’d like, and discuss my goals and progress. A trainer records my measurements and talks through my diet. We discuss what is going well and what I’m struggling with. I haven’t always had great numbers, or lost a lot of weight when I meet with the trainers, but I always leave with clear goals that I feel like I can work toward.

Before and After a year at Burn Boot Camp.

As a mom with four kids, making time to work out can be a challenge. I can’t focus on my workout unless I know my kids are being well taken care of. Burn Boot Camp provides free childcare to each member. I can drop my kids off in the childcare room for the forty-five minute workout and not worry if they are safe and happy. They look forward to going to the gym as much as I do. They get to meet new friends and make crafts. The fact that childcare is included in my membership price makes it a great value for my money.

Probably the most important thing that Burn has given me is a truly supportive gym family. I was so hesitant to walk through the doors that first day, but I am so glad I did. I now have a support system of people who aren’t just “gym friends.” There are other moms who just get it. We can talk about the struggles of parenthood, and hold each other accountable for getting to the gym. We remind each other that putting ourselves first is important. There are so many women, whether moms or not, that encourage each other every day with high fives during camp, or words of motivation in the gym Facebook group.

My journey at Burn Boot Camp isn’t always perfect. There are weeks that my schedule is packed and I can’t make it to the gym every day. I have fallen off the wagon with my diet more than once. What I love about Burn is that I can always get right back on track. All it takes is going in and crushing a few camps, and I’m motivated and refocused on my goals. There is always a fun event coming up, or new goals to work toward.

I am not the person I was 18 months ago. I’m stronger, faster, and less stressed. The thing I’m most proud of is that I’m putting myself first. I’m a better mom, wife, and friend when I’m happy and healthy. If you are at a low point and are looking for a way to focus on your fitness, I encourage you to come try a free trial membership (zero strings attached!) at Burn Boot Camp soon. You don’t have anything to lose by trying it out, but you just might gain a lot more than you’d expect. I know I have.