So, you signed up for your firstboot camp workout class.

Its a new year and youre ready tomix up your routineand challenge yourself totry something new.

And we’re here for you.

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Boot camps combine strength and cardio exercises for a full-body burn.

AtBarrys Bootcamp, youll alternate betweentreadmill challengesand floor exercises.

Even at the same studio, each class is totally different, to keep your muscles guessing.

Learning the moves, honing your form, and getting stronger are the whole point.

Youve got to start somewhere.

That said, it cant hurt to get the 411 before you dive in.

Heres our guide to what you oughta know before your first boot-camp style class.

Dont know how to use a machine or do a move?

First look around the room and give a shot to copy what your classmates are doing.

Proper form prevents injuries (and you get more out of it that way, too).

In terms of what to wear, it totally depends if class is indoors or outdoors.

confirm youhydratebefore the class.

He recommends drinking a little bit more the night before and morning of class.

Then one to two more 15-20 minutes before class.

That way youre prepared to replenish what you sweat out.

On the other hand, you dont want to be so full you want to hurl.

This is totally individualized.

Some people must eat before class, others, like myself, cant eat anything before class.

Until you know how your body will feel, follow the standard advice to eat something before class.

Especially before a HIIT class, you want to have eaten something at least an hour before your class.

(Avoid too much fat or fiber, which can upset your stomach while youre working out.)

This way if youre confused about a move, (what the heck is aprisoner squat?)

And dont be embarrassed if they give you more attention than other students.

If class starts at 8:30 A.M. have a go at get there between 8:10 and 8:15.

Watching the other fit bodies in the room take on those heavy dumbbells orsprintat a 10.5 can be unsettling.

It does not mean that you are expected to do that on your first class.

Some of them have been coming for years.

Dont get thrown off by what everyone else is doing.

Youre trying something brand new, so be extra attentive to your body.

Modify before you instantly take a stab at master.

Trust yourself, you know what is best for you, says Zvinas.

If you get tired, take a break.

If you need water, drink some.

Dont be afraid to do what your body needs.

You definitely dont want to overdo it on your first class.

If you’ve got the option to perform a move, but only without weights, do that.

Completing a properlungewith lighter weight is much more effective than with heavier weight and bad form, says Wilking.

Yes, its going to be hard.

That’s usually when the negative thoughts creep into the brain.

Classes are meantto push you to a levelyou most likely cant get to on your own.

We promise (and they most likely do, too), its all worth it in the end.

Or you may feel sick, if its something your body is not used to at all.

Drink waterafter classas well and throughout the rest of the day to feel better.

Whether thatsdinneror lunch, you gotta fuel up so you’re able to recover properly.

Know that the discomfort you feel during class and directly after will only intensify in the coming days.

This is totally normal and expected, says Winslow.

“The key is, don’t stop moving.

Be certain to continue hydrating and stretching though you feel like doing the opposite.

Go outside and take a gentle stroll or slow shake out jog instead.”

The easy movement will help your body recover and maximize the results of your efforts.