BOOTCAMP (but not as you know it)

A new bootcamp is redefining the once strict military-style experience

- Georgie Bentley-Buckle

Standing in an idyllic walled garden that is saturated by sunshine and filled with pink roses, I find myself blasting out burpees, driving dumbbells above my head and strapping on boxing gloves. While I may be surrounded by picture-perfect meadows in the depths of the Kent countryside, this isn’t the typical English escape I’d expect to find myself on, as I discover a new type of boot camp that is doing things a little differently.

The word ‘bootcamp’ conjures visions of punishment. From crawling through the mud in an uncomfortable camouflaged uniform, to being screamed at all hours of the day. However, 1st Class Bootcamp (1stclassbootcamp.com) flips the script and revolutionises the concept to ensure they’ll bring you up, not break you down.

Founder Tom Brown and his team of professionals have come together on a mission to redefine the bootcamp experience. Across four nights and three days, from dawn ’til dusk, I dived headfirst into various types of challenging workouts as well as savoured bespoke, goal-orientated meals, listened to educational seminars and enjoyed blissful periods of recovery in the comfort of the converted barn, complete with pool house.

GETTING SOCIAL 

Whether exercising in the garden, under the eaves of the barn or devouring one of the professionally crafted meals, team spirit is the name of the game at 1st Class Bootcamp. It unites people of all ages and abilities who pull together.