FIND YOUR LOCAL VENUE
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A fitness programme in low level light can be exciting! Try and see the elements as a new challenge not an obstacle to your training.
The weather
Our instructors are used to training in the dark and during bad weather and their experience will ensure that your military bootcamp will be rewarding and enjoyable, whatever the conditions and will definitely help you get the results you want. Your wellbeing is a priority for them so they will make every effort to keep you out of the worst of the elements.
Preparation before your class
You will need to prepare if you are going to attend a winter fitness boot camp! Kit preparation the night before a class is important. Keep a section of your bag for any wet or dirty clothing. BMF recommend Ortlieb canoe sacks that will keep your work clothes and anything else dry and separate from any wet kit.
Pack a spare t-shirt and warm fleece for after the fitness programme. It’s a good idea to bring a post-class snack such as a banana or a muesli bar.
Arriving at the class safely
If you’re worried about making your way in or out of the park during the dark evenings then please mention this to your Park Manager at your venue. There will always be members going the same way and you can travel together. Facebook fan pages have now been set up, where transport to and from parks can be coordinated with other members as well. Don’t be shy, just ask at the park!
Clothing
Layering works best during the winter months, two thin tops are warmer than one thick one.
Many sports tops now use high-wicking materials which keep you warm by taking the sweat away from your skin. These tops allow you to stay warm without overheating.
It is worth investing in a pair of gloves and a hat, as the extremities are always the areas to get cold first.
Do check your trainers too, worn out soles will make you slide on the wet ground, increasing the chance of injuries. Trainers should be replaced once every six months and we recommend cross-trainers for the winter. These are an excellent investment and are great for muddy ground.
Visibility
The majority of our classes are held close to built-up areas and roads that assist in providing reasonable amounts of ambient light. Most parks have lighting along the main through-routes that we utilise as well. Finally, the moon provides natural light which also makes a difference during classes. The human eye takes at the most 10-15 minutes to acclimatise to the dark so you’ll be amazed at how much you can see even on a dark night.
All our venues undergo a risk assessment during daylight hours and we only use safe areas in the dark. The instructors also carry lights so that you know where they are at all times.
Hydration
When it’s cold there is a tendency to drink lots of hot drinks. Remember that tea and coffee are diuretics so you will also need to drink plenty of water before, during and after the military bootcamp to remain hydrated.
BMF recommend that you drink at least three litres of water during the day of your fitness boot camp. We also recommend that you bring along water, an isotonic drink or a replenishment drink for post class.
After the class
Try to get out of your wet clothes before putting on some warm clothes. There is no point in putting dry clothing over wet clothing as you will still remain cold. Remember to pack a dry t-shirt and a fleece type top for after the fitness programme.
If you drive to the class, BMF seat covers or a bin liner are good ideas to protect your car seats if you get wet or muddy.
Taking extra water and a snack that is high in carbohydrates is also an excellent idea for after the class.
Daytime classes
Try to do a daytime fitness boot camp whenever possible throughout the winter, even if it’s just once every other week. Training in the daylight will re-affirm your knowledge of the terrain at your venue. In the winter, we aim to put on more classes during daylight hours and being outdoors during the day will make you feel better about the longer winter nights! You will also boost your vitamin D levels.
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