On the Job

The idea of a boot camp conjures images of an outdoor environment, maybe with a screaming drill sergeant berating a line of soldiers; neither thing sounds very pleasant at this time of year.

But personal fitness trainer Chris Sloan’s idea of a “fitness boot camp” is different: His boot camp is indoors, and he gives individual attention to his students.

Sloan has been a personal trainer for more than 15 years. While studying communications and advertising at the University of Alabama, Sloan began working for a local gym.

“I got addicted to working out at the gym,” he said. “So I kept with it, and I am still doing personal training today. I love helping people reach their goals.”

Although he has simple workout equipment, like sparring clothing, dumbbells and aerobics balls, he shuns larger, more expensive equipment.

“I believe in ‘less is more’ when it comes to boot camp-style training,” said Sloan.

Sloan is in the process of opening a new boot camp in the Dale Serrano Dance Studio in Gardendale, and is already instructing classes. He is also a strength and conditioning expert for the Mercedes Athletic Club in Vance.

True to their name, most boot camp-style fitness programs are conducted outside. Sloan opted to use the dance studio’s two large dance rooms so that he could hold classes year-round, even in the current cold seasons.

“The boot camp uses the principal of combining the weight training with a cardio workout, so you’re getting the best of both worlds,” said Sloan.

Each session is only 45 minutes long and, although not recommended, it’s possible to miss one every once in a while since  the classes run continuously.

“You’re not having to spend a lot of time doing this like you would in a regular gym,” he said. “In a gym, you’d have to spend at least 30 minutes just running on the treadmill.”

Sloan has several packages, and says many of them are a little more expensive than a monthly gym membership.

“But, if you work out for a year on a gym’s equipment and don’t look any different from when you started, that’s money wasted,” he said. “Whatever they spend, it’s going to be worth their money.”

Sloan also has a money back guarantee tied to his services.

To sign up for a boot camp, visit www.bamafitness.com.