Those looking to shed a few pounds or otherwise lead a healthier lifestyle can start in earnest come January, courtesy of the Iola Recreation Department.
Trent Chriestenson, a certified personal trainer living in Neosho Falls, will lead a six-week Aerobic Boxing Bootcamp, starting Jan. 10 at the Recreation Community Building.
Participants are welcome to a free introductory course at 7 p.m. Thursday at the rec building in Riverside Park.
The bootcamp offers a variety of exercises, combining balance, coordination, core, strength and endurance.
The exercises are based on “type 2” high-intensity interval training, Chriestenson said.
The training is similar to what boxers would do when training for a fight — thus the “boxing bootcamp” name.
There is no boxing, sparring or any other type of physical contact, said Jake Lawrence, fitness coordinator for the rec department.
“This is purely for those wanting to get into shape,” Lawrence said.
The training can be tailored for any fitness level, from beginners to those already considered in peak physical fitness.
No equipment is necessary, other than workout clothes.
Chriestenson has simple demands upon his students: that they be motivated and willing to better themselves.
“If you do a class, and you haven’t burned 500 calories, then you haven’t pushed yourself hard enough,” he said. “What I want are people who want to improve their lives on a daily basis and are willing to have fun doing it.”
The classes will run from 6:30 to 7:30 each Tuesday and Thursday, from Jan. 10 through Feb. 21. One exception is that there is no class on Feb. 14 — Valentine’s Day.
Cost for the class is $30. Registration can be done online at www.cityofiola.com/rec_events_all.html or by visiting the recreation office by Jan. 10.
For more information, contact Lawrence at 365-4990.
