For those looking to shed the pounds and stay in shape, group exercise sessions have become an increasingly popular pastime in the UAE.
Like most trends, boot camps are an American export that have gained exposure across the globe.
At the forefront of the craze in Abu Dhabi is Jump Sports Academies.
The company promises to offer the highest standard of service anywhere in the capital, by providing a range of activities geared to suit the needs of all groups.
Those catered for include athletes looking to hone their performance levels, non-gym users who have decided to make a fresh start and gym regulars who want to receive professional and innovative advice.
At the forefront of this health push are their circuit style, boot camp classes.
In a packed health sector full of competitors, Director of fitness Tim College insists JSA stands out as it offers clients well-honed professional guidance on hard-to-master exercises.
“Other boot camp classes feature running and are heavily centered on body weight exercises,” he told Sport360°. “Why should people pay for that? “Running is not something people need coaching on unless they are very keen amateurs or professionals.
“Kettle bells, for example, need coaching as they are often used incorrectly by people. They need coaching but running does not need it.
“We offer tailored programmes that can help all types of people. They are designed to be enjoyed. Our different locations are well set-up, and offer a great place to exercise.
“Over 12 weeks, our clients can expect to see fat loss, improved fitness and be able to feel much better about themselves and their bodies.”
There are 17 JSA boot camp classes per week, spread over three locations at Raha International School, Mangrove Village and Al Muneera.
Currently, they are based outdoors, but the action moves inside next month as the temperature rises and it becomes unbearable outside.
A range of price plans are on offer, with 12 sessions a month costing Dh600 and eight Dh450.
The care for clients does not begin and end at the boot camp. Each person is given nutritional advice, newsletters are sent out and further information is available on the JSA Facebook page.
These schemes help anyone taking part get the most out of linking up with JSA, according to Colledge.
He said: “People have often played team sports at some point in their life. Through that, they have learned to be motivated around other people.
“They get a fair bit more for their money with us. It is not just about the three hours of exercise per week.
“We offer support online as we want to make a change to our client’s lifestyles. And everyone is up for our nutritional tips.”
JSA clients will certainly not lack for motivation when they sign up. Health and fitness excellence is always on Colledge’s mind.
He has been working in the industry for more than a decade, with eight years of that time spent in Abu Dhabi.
“I have done my job on three different continents,” the 30 year old said. “Healthy living is something I am aware of at work and in my social life.
“I am passionate when it comes to my job. I don’t just coach people, I try to change their lives.
“The time I have spent in Abu Dhabi means I know our services will fit into the lifestyle of people out here. We live in the sunlight, so it is a fantastic place to exercise and keep fit.”
WHAT: Jump Sports Fitness boot camp classes
WHERE: Raha International School, Mangrove Village and Al Muneera
WEBSITE: http://www.jumpsports.ae/index.php?file=game/ about&gid=3
