Von White, one of the exercise professionals at Vonster Fit.
Photo credit: Chris Rose

It appears to be a new exercise phenomenon; Americans are leaving the gym in search of more personalized training and an outdoor environment. What they are choosing in ever increasing numbers is boot camp.

“Boot camp provides a well-rounded workout,” explains Von White, mother of three and partner in new enterprise, Vonster Fit, starting up in White Plains this month. Together with personal trainer Chris Rose, White, who has over 20 years of experience in fitness, says about 85 percent of the population is not joining the gym, yet 66 percent of that same population is overweight. “Many of these people fall into the baby boomer category, “ White explains. “They might be intimidated by the atmosphere of the gym, or they might find it too repetitious and boring. Many people want the personal attention of a trainer but can’t afford it. For others the regular workout classes offered in the gyms are simply not challenging enough or not tailored to suit their specific needs.”

The idea to create an outdoor boot camp came easily to White and Rose. “We wanted to create an experience that includes real world movements for developing strength and stamina. Many people we encounter these days are suffering from lower back pain caused by stress and from too much sitting, usually at the office. This causes the muscles in the body’s core to weaken. By providing a well-rounded and fun workout, the body’s core is strengthened and conditioned. You don’t get the same results with machines,” says White.

Rose, who is a Master Trainer at New York Sports Club has been a personal trainer since 1989. “I find I am always learning,” says Rose. “This industry has shifted. Personal trainers have become like physical therapists. We look at posture and balance when we start with a client and begin corrective exercise. In the boot camp class structure, I will work with individuals in the class to personalize their routine. Each person has to work at their own level and set their own goals.” White agrees, “It is better that each person perfect their form, rather than do more repetitions in poor form,” she says. And, while the focus is on the individual, there is team support within the boot camp group because everyone is sharing a common goal.

Both White and Rose enjoy exercising outdoors. “There is an energy you get just by being outside,” they say. “And, no workout is ever the same when it is done outdoors.”

Vonster Fit Boot Camp features three 1-hour sessions per week. Tues. and Thurs. at 6 a.m. and Sat. at 7 a.m.; Mon., Wed. and Fri. at 9:15 a.m. at the West Harrison Athletic Field by Silver Lake. Visit vonsterfit.com for more information.

Photo credit: Vonster Fit