BTB FITNESS™ INSTRUCTORS: MEET THE MOTIVATORS

BTB Fitness Instructors come from many backgrounds, but we all have one thing in common: a passion for fitness. Every single instructor began—just like you—as a BTB Fitness participant. Now we each bring our own style, charisma and enthusiasm to the BTB Fitness experience to motivate and inspire all.

BTB Boot Camp Candler Freedom Park

Erin Evans

Sitting at dinner with a group of friends one night in May 2006 I learned about this crazy thing called Boot Camp. Having run a few marathons I was used to a physical challenge, but knew I needed to do more than run…Boot Camp was the answer. I joined Boot Camp in June 2006, the month after my Dad passed away. Getting up each and every morning, pushing myself to the limit and being surrounded by some of the most positive and motivating people in the city was exactly what I needed. Boot Camp changed by life. I am stronger physically and mentally, and even realized a late blooming competitive streak which has carried from the fields of Piedmont Park and Agnes Scott into other aspects of my life. Realizing the strength within you is one of the most amazing and satisfying realizations in life! Through the fitness program at BTB I have taken 28 minutes off my marathon time and have also learned that is possible to give up having Coke for breakfast and dessert with every meal! As the Marketing Manager responsible for the North American Events & Programs team at Elekta, Inc., an international medical-technology company I travel frequently for work. Boot Camp has taught me core work-outs I can do in my hotel room while away on business travel, so I can stay on top of my fitness anywhere in the world! So as my motto goes, “No Excuses, Just Results.”

Melissa Hayes

In 2001, I came to a stark realization: my husband, Jeff, and I had become way out of shape after getting married. So I signed us both up for a boot camp program - and it was just what we both needed to jump-start our fitness routines. I lost a clothing size, re-discovered my love for working out and returned to my pre-collegiate shape. Boot camp was such a positive factor in my life that I began to recruit my friends into the program, and eventually Jeff and I became instructors and started our own boot camp program. My background as a Nutritionist for Emory Medical Genetics, along with Jeff's and my passion for fitness, gave us just the right combination of enthusiasm and experience to make the boot camp a success. I now run BTB Fitness full-time - and I love being part of such a positive lifestyle change for others. When I'm not busy encouraging boot campers in early morning drills or overseeing the day-to-day duties of the program, I enjoy CrossFitting and playing with our two dogs, Scout and Spike.

Kim Kincaid

Kimberly Kincaid My date with fate began in February 2008 when I took a stab at Cross Fit and realized despite all of the routine workouts and multiple sports I play that I definitely still had room for a lot of improvement both mentally and physically. I will never forget how sore I was during my first three days or the encouraging words of the awesome BTB instructors that helped me push through mental walls and achieve results that I never knew were possible! After finishing a month of Cross Fit, I was addicted and ready to try that thing they called boot camp just because… During the last week in February, I ventured out to Decatur to test the waters during “Bring a Friend Day.” Talk about a workout! And in the snow, nonetheless! Just a few short days later in the beginning of March, I “manned up” and joined the first-ever Freedom Park boot camp crew, feeling continuously challenged from the get-go. I was hooked from “hello!”  I’ve always been a huge fan of anything in the great outdoors, so I guess you could say it was love at first workout on those beautiful rolling hills for me – I’ve been with the Freedom Park crew ever since! Every day’s workout is different, the camaraderie and friendly competition are awesome, and the results are real! Boot camp became and still is one of the best parts of my day! As a new instructor, I love inspiring other booties and helping them achieve their personal bests like my instructors did for me. There's nothing like discovering inner strengths you never knew you had and walking away with a new sense of self-worth and respect - especially before the sun comes up! When I’m not boot campin’ it, you can find me at the American Cancer Society’s National Home Office doing internal communications, at a local park, or playing one of the many sports I love – softball, kickball, soccer, flag football, volleyball, ultimate frisbee, etc.

Greg Magnuson

A lifelong tennis player, I found myself losing too many matches because I just wasn’t in good enough shape. A couple consecutive heartbreaking losses due to conditioning (it couldn’t have been anything else, right?) were enough to convince me it was time to listen to my friends and check out BTB’s Boot Camp. Two months later I was twenty-five pounds lighter and in the best shape of my life. Boot Camp has absolutely changed my life. I eat better, have more energy, and finally look at running as something other than a miserable chore. Now I relish the opportunity as an instructor to try to push and inspire others to work hard and get as much out of boot camp as I have gotten.

John Williams

I'm a Financial Advisor in Atlanta who started attending Boot Camp because I needed a good push in a healthy direction. Before Boot Camp I had stopped going out every other night and ended a long love affair with cigarettes three years earlier. I felt a ton better, but I was never much for structured workouts. Sitting in an office for several years trying to stay in shape through flag football, softball and riding in a golf cart wasn't working. I came to a "bring a friend day" and knew then that this was the only way for me to break some very old habits. I love the camaraderie and competition but the greatest thing about Boot Camp is finding something within yourself that you may have never considered.

BTB Boot Camp Decatur

Lee Ann Afton

I've always been a fit runner but was looking for a challenge and a way to step it up a notch when I participated in my first Boot Camp in August 2006. Wow, what a great discovery! The workouts are great, and the change I have seen in my strength and overall fitness level is incredible. It is so fun to be part of a team that encourages and pushes everyone to work a little harder and get out of their comfort zone. For me, the workouts help keep the stress at bay as during the day I am the director of admission at Agnes Scott College in Decatur, GA. In my free time I enjoy playing golf and, when possible, scuba diving.

Andrea Babcock

In November 2004, after finally realizing that I could try every diet in the world but that the only way to keep the weight off in the long run was to incorporate consistent exercise into my daily life, I decided to sign up for Boot Camp, which given my general lack of coordination and desire to work out in public was a big step in and of itself. What I didn’t realize is what a life changing experience Boot Camp would be for me, both physically and mentally. And I will admit, I became a Boot Camp addict. The physical results are incredible. (I even had to try to add a few pounds back on to fill out my wedding dress). But even more than the physical results, with the support and attention from the Instructors and Boot Campers, I am able to push myself outside my comfort zone and surprise myself by strengths, while having loads of fun. In February 2006, I became an instructor and now have the honor of passing on the gifts that Boot Camp gave and continues to give to me. When I’m not rolling around on the ground in the park or playing with our three dogs, I am corporate counsel for an architectural and design firm in Atlanta.

Mike Babcock

After months of my wife (then girlfriend) begging me to come to try Boot Camp with her, I signed up in August 2005 and became an instructor in February 2006. The wide variety of boot camp activities provides great cross training balance that helps ward off injuries when training for long distance trail races. This quote by Teddy Roosevelt pretty much sums up my philosophy, "It is not the critic who counts: not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles or where the doer of deeds could have done better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly, who errs and comes up short again and again, because there is no effort without error or shortcoming, but who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, who spends himself for a worthy cause; who, at the best, knows, in the end, the triumph of high achievement, and who, at the worst, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who knew neither victory nor defeat."

Kirk Gilliam

I started Boot Camp April 2007 and immediately started doing CrossFit as part of the Boot Camp program. After a couple of months with BTB Boot Camp and CrossFit, I lost 10% of my body fat from when I first started. It has completely changed my life. I also play rugby for the Atlanta Renegades. Boot Camp and CrossFit have helped my play in Rugby and also in my overall perspective in life. My energy is great and I enjoy everyday! BTB made me an instructor in July of 2007 and it has been great helping others. In my work life I sell packaging equipment and supplies for Unisource Worldwide here in Atlanta. Hope to see you at Boot Camp or CrossFit.

Jean Jordan

I joined Boot Camp in May 2005 as a student hoping to find a new exercise challenge. As a long-time distance runner, I thought I was in pretty good shape, but that one month showed me the error of my thinking! After missing the final week of that Boot Camp due to a pulled calf muscle, I returned to join the Winter Maintenance program and have continued with Boot Camp ever since, joining the instructor ranks in February 2006. I also hold a BA in religion and history from Stetson University and an M Ed in higher education from Georgia State University. Days are spent as the Interim Dean of Admission for a local university.

Vic Misiewicz

I started boot camp in May of 2005 at the request of my wife (who is also an instructor) whereby I proceeded to pull almost every muscle in my lower body. But perseverance and persistence won out and I finally got in shape. I participated as a student in the both the October program and the Winter program, which covered the months of November, December and January. I became an instructor in February of 2006 and I am actively involved in both the morning and evening programs.

I hold a BA degree in Physical Education from Ohio Wesleyan University and was captain of my college soccer team. I am employed as a Regional Sales Manager for a large national health care provider.

Brian Myers

After 4 months of being harassed by David Leonard that I had to try this boot camp thing, I finally got off my butt and gave it a try. I was a little nervous that he had joined a cult since all he talked about was proper food choices, sore muscles, and how positive everyone was at 6AM. He also used new words and phrases like “Fartlek,” “plank,” and “You can do anything for 10 seconds.” Well after only one week it appeared I had drank the red kool-aid too and was hooked. I had had several years of back problems due to rugby, but after losing some weight and really strengthening my core my back feels the best it has in years and is definitely stronger. Boot camp has also given me more energy, despite getting up earlier, and I have met a bunch of amazing people all trying to better their health. My favorite aspect about being an instructor is watching someone at the final PT test completely blow away numbers they scored when they started and watching people give even more when they think it might just be impossible to do more.

Paige Stanley

Prior to joining boot camp as a student in September 2005, I chose running as my primary form of exercise. I even tested my endurance and commitment to fitness by running various half-marathons and a full marathon before I turned 30. After completing law school, I was eager to find a fresh fitness challenge. Despite not being an early morning person, I decided to give the 6:00 am boot camp workout a try. Much to my surprise, I not only enjoyed this type of group workout, but I continued to get up at this ridiculous hour. Why? The benefits of boot camp are too many to mention here! Within a relatively short period of time, I lost weight, improved my strength and stamina, and felt great! After surviving the chilly winter maintenance program, I joined the group as an instructor in February of 2006.

Ashley Tagtachian

I started boot camp in Piedmont Park in the summer of 2004 and became a BTB Boot Camp instructor in the summer of 2005. I have always loved competitive team sports. I played basketball, tennis, softball, flag football all throughout high school and college. When my husband and I moved to Atlanta, I began looking for a workout that would be intense and different. I had little discipline for going to the gym on my own. In June of 2004, I found boot camp for the first time. I was hooked! To me, this is the best workout possible. I could still challenge myself individually, but also be part of a team. Everyone is pushing each other and encouraging each other to be better. The mob mentality is awesome! When my husband still wouldn’t go to the gym with me, I went back again in March of 2005 and stayed to become an instructor. Several months later, my husband joined me and now he’s an instructor too. Outside of boot camp, I spend most of my time trying to manage my medical services business and my screaming (but lovely) baby, Mateo.

Lauren Waits

I became an instructor at the BTB Decatur Boot Camp in April of 2007. As a working mother of three, the hour from 6 to 7 a.m. is the only time each day that actually belongs to me--so I'm trying to use it well. Between working on public policy issues at the nonprofit Voices for Georgia's Children, ferrying my own kids around town, having an occasional conversation with my husband, and NOT giving up ice cream altogether, I wanted to get the maximum calorie burn possible from a limited number of workouts--hence boot camp. Suffering through that first month, I secretly despised all the instructors (except Vic--who could hate Vic?). They were just too darned perky. But as I got closer to joining their ranks, I realized that having a positive attitude is the most important foundation for a lifelong approach to fitness. I want to know my great grandchildren someday--that's why I'm out there, sweating or freezing, every day I've got.

BTB Boot Camp Gym

Jill Genschoreck

Throughout my childhood I was a dancer, cheerleader and swimmer and as I got older, started coaching & teaching younger kids. Although quite active, I was never a runner and hated lifting weights. In 1997, I injured my back while dancing and had surgery to repair a ruptured L4/L5 disk. The back surgeon told me I'd never be able to dance again, run or lift weights. In 2000, I took up running as a challenge from a friend, (and to secretly tell the surgeon to shove it) and have since run countless 5k's, 10k's and two Half Marathons. Somewhere along the lines, I started teaching other fitness classes, became a certified ISSA Personal Trainer and became obsessed with researching nutrition, running and the latest "fitness buzz". I've taught more classes and ran more miles in 8 years than I ever thought possible! I got involved in boot camp as an instructor in Nov 2004, lost 5 pounds and one size. In Oct '06 Jeff convinced some of us to try CrossFit. I was skeptical - I gain muscle easily and didn't want to bulk up. Two months later, 5 pounds lighter and one size smaller, I did an unassisted pull-up - my first one ever in my life. That was it - I was hooked on CrossFit and became a certified CrossFit Trainer. I quit my "day job" in May '07 to work full-time for BTB as VP/Manager/Admin/Head Trainer and am now a CrossFit Level 2 Trainer, working towards Level 3 by teaching/training at Level 1 CrossFit seminars. For my 10 year back surgery anniversary, I almost sent the surgeon a picture of me lifting my body weight, but I figured he'd write back saying I was crazy. Boot Camp & CrossFit have changed my body, my mental toughness and my life. I can't wait to help you change yours!

Jeff Hayes

Growing up in Atlanta I was involved in many athletic activities (from ping pong to football) yet I find my passions always come back to bicycling, motorcycling and weightlifting. Working out and living a fit life has also become a very important component of my life. I, like most folks, fell off the wagon a bit during/after college and it wasn't until after I found my wife that I/we decided it was time for a change. Melissa and I took a Boot Camp program back in 2001 and from there, the rest is history. Boot Camp literally changed our lives and got us back on track. We found CrossFit a few years later and again our lives were transformed. CrossFit changes lives. I am serious as cheesy as that sounds. I have never seen a program change fitness levels and bodies so quickly. It is good stuff. Come get some.

Jeff Hayes

Melissa Hayes

I am not going to lie to you, I like to EAT! Most folks who know me are aware of my fondness for chips, salsa & cheese dip. In order to indulge in the chips from time to time and maintain my girlish figure, I gotta workout! I think many folks are like this. Love to eat, but want look good & feel good as well. So I approach training the same way. There are times when I am strict and there are times when I give myself a break. You set goals, you attain them & then you have to find a balance & enjoy life! Since I get bored easily, I do my best to get in & get out when completing my workouts. And, if I can fit a little fun into my workout that helps me actually look forward to my next workout adventure. I also like to get the biggest bang for my buck. This is why I LOVE CrossFit. I have never seen a program reshape a body as effectively and as quickly as CrossFit. And, believe me; I have done everything from running til I drop to Taebo. If running & running worked – believe me – I’d do it. But I know it doesn’t work for me and I don’t think it works for most folks. Come try a few sessions with me. Together we will not only make you look fabulous – but feel fabulous too. I want to make sure that you look amazing & know that you are strong enough to pick up your kids or lift your groceries without throwing out your back! My technique: basic to advanced CrossFit Traditional calisthenics Plyometrics & medicine ball training I walk you through every rep or program & stay with you the entire time. My qualifications: CrossFit certified instructor ISSA certified personal trainer I LOVE what I do!

Charles Mayfield

I had every excuse in the world not to go to BTB Bootcamp…a membership at LA Fitness, going through divorce, three knee surgeries, moving into a new house and a traumatic head injury in December 2006 that nearly killed me. I finally saw my knee doctor and he said “well, just go try it and be careful”. Always up for a challenge, I signed up in July 2007 when I knew it was hot and would be tough. I used to think I was in pretty good shape. Once I tried CrossFit, I realized I was no where near as fit as I could be. CrossFit has taken me to an all new level. As Lee Corso says ‘Not so fast my friend’. BTB has changed my life in so many ways…I don’t know where to begin. Perhaps just a summary: If you want to know what it feels like to be challenged, pushed, encouraged, confident, victorious…sign up tomorrow. NO EXCUSES….JUST RESULTS! My life is forever changed due to this amazing program. Give us 30 days and we’ll make you a better person.

Kellie McMaster

I started doing Crossfit in October of 2006 when our regular boot camp workouts were put on hold for the winter season and the instructors wanted to do something to stay in shape. Jeff, who is part of the husband-wife team that owns BTB, found a gym near Georgia Tech where they did something called Crossfit. I had never heard of it and I'm pretty sure the other instructors hadn't either. Boy, did we have a wake-up call when Dan at Crossfit Atlanta put us through our first weeks of training. I got hooked on Crossfit almost immediately. The workouts are different every day and extremely challenging. I loved Crossfit so much that I got certified as a Level 1 trainer in October 2007. Two days of training at 7,000 feet (in Flagstaff, Arizona) was tough, but well worth it. Now, I look forward to going to the BTB gym and helping others learn the value of this groundbreaking workout regimen.

Stacy Moldovan

Level One CrossFit certified!

BTB Boot Camp Midtown

Andy Abend

I Started Boot Camp in October 2005. At 36 years old, I came to realization that I was no longer in good shape through an odd way – my life insurance. I did not qualify for preferred ultra rates like my wife did because my good cholesterol (HDL) levels were too low and having a low HDL was almost as dangerous as high cholesterol. My doctor told me that the best way to improve these levels was through aerobic exercise. After my first day of boot camp I remember my wife asking me if I was going to survive as I lay on the kitchen floor. The answer was yes. Two months later I had dropped 25 pounds, was running about 10 miles a week in addition to the boot camp work out, and my good cholesterol was up into preferred ultra zone. Since that first day, my good boot camp habits continue and I feel that I am in as good of shape now as when I was rowing in college.

Monica Dean

I first started Boot Camp in June 2005. I was getting married and looking to take my workouts to the next level - really hold myself accountable for what I ate and how hard I worked - and Boot Camp did just that! The results were amazing after only one month so I signed up for another month! I couldn't have been more pleased with the changes I saw, my wedding dress was even too big. Now here I am an instructor and it has been more rewarding than I could have ever imagined. Meeting the boot campers at the first day of camp and helping them reach their goals is amazing. I'm also employed by the American Cancer Society, love to travel and (horrible, I know) love all reality TV.

Cria Gregory

I was first a bootcamper in July 2004 and became an instructor in August 2006.
During my first year of grad school I barely had time to sleep, let alone exercise. I knew I needed something to jumpstart working out again, so I signed up for Boot Camp in July 2004. I had never been a runner, but a few boot-campers decided to get together once a week to run together; I stuck with it and have now completed several half marathons. I did Boot Camp again in the summer of 2005 and became an instructor in the summer of 2006. I am working towards my PhD in nutritional epidemiology, researching associations among diet, physical activity, and cardiovascular disease risk factors, so bootcamp is a great fit, incorporating so many of the things that I love to study.

Gerlinda Grimes

I started boot camp in April 2006. I had only planned to do Boot Camp for 1 month, but my friend and fellow instructor, Lauren, threatened me with concrete shoes. So, after a 3-month stint, I found I had traded in about 25 lbs. for some courage, confidence and guts. Boot Camp is hard! But guess what? I did it anyway. The first month, Melissa's plyometrics workout reduced me to tears. But the second month was even harder; I was sick of getting up at 5:00 am every day. Plus, I found skinny people very irritating. Month # 2 was a war between the voice in my head that kept saying, "Give up; no one's making you do this" and the louder voice inside my heart that said, "Show up, do the work, and you can change." Losing weight and getting stronger was great, but it was secondary to discovering I have the guts to change myself, change my life, seize upon something I want to do and, even though it is hard, do it anyway. At the end of the third month, I signed up for a half-marathon and a full marathon. When I was done, I came back as an instructor. Now, even though I am not the fittest, fastest, or strongest instructor, I am a living breathing example of how anyone, anyone at all, can succeed in Boot Camp. If I did it, anyone can do it. Yes, even you. I promise. In my other life, I play guitar and sing in the local acoustic band weaklazyliar.

Melissa Hayes

Kate Helm

I started Boot Camp in May 2005 as a 42-year-old, out-of-shape, overworked and stressed working mother of two. I had not exercised regularly in over 10 years and my age and lifestyle were quickly catching up with me. On my first day of Boot Camp I did one (yes one!) regular pushup, a few sit-ups and ran the loop very slowly. Things gradually improved thanks to the never ending encouragement of a certain instructor who never let me quit. After one month I was hooked. Boot Camp literally changed my life and made me realize that I could still push myself and accomplish things. The group atmosphere is a lot of fun, and there really isn't any other workout like it.

Barry Herrin

By day I work for SunTrust Bank as a System Implementation Manager in Credit Risk Management. I signed up for BTB boot camp in April 2007 after some major coaxing from a co-worker who wanted to try it but was afraid to go alone. I had been working out with free weights for years and considered myself in decent shape even though I had hit a major plateau. Well that first month was a real eye-opener for me; in other words boot camp seriously kicked my butt. Then at the end of the 4-weeks, I was completely taken aback at the progress I made, how great I felt and how much I loved the group camaraderie. I asked myself how much more progress would I make if I committed to a 2nd 4 weeks. By the middle of the 2nd month I was totally hooked. Combining the BTB cross-fit with the boot camp has pushed me to a level of fitness I never thought possible for myself. The real proof came at my annual physical when after only a few short months of boot camp by body fat percent went down from 21.5% to 15.5% while my muscle mass went up by a double digit percentage. BTB has truly changed my life.

Leonard Hope

I did my first boot camp in March, 2006. I hadn't done a push-up or a sit-up in many years, so I wasn't sure that I could make it through the month. With the help and encouragement of so many great instructors, I lost almost 20 pounds my first month. I also dramatically increased my strength, endurance, and overall fitness level. I was hooked! Over the course of several more months of boot camp I lost around 40 pounds. My friends and family couldn't believe the change that the boot camp program helped me make. I continued in boot camp during the summer, fall, and winter of 2006, and became an instructor in April of 2007. I participate in the evening classes at Piedmont Park. When I'm not exercising (or thinking about exercising), I'm a patent attorney at my firm Hope Baldauff Hartman, LLC (www.hbhlawfirm.com).

Sarah Howe

I started bootcamp in July 2006. I was looking for a way to get back into shape after having my third child. I have always struggled to stick to a workout regime and with three young children and working part time, finding time to make it happen seemed next to impossible. I was encouraged to try bootcamp by several neighbors and friends. I started bootcamp in July 2006 and have hardly missed a day since. I love it! The workouts are diverse, challenging, and fun – making it easy to stay interested and excited about the program. The instructors and fellow bootcampers provide the encouragement and support to keep pushing you to get better. The result for me has been life-changing, both in how I look and feel. Bootcamp has become my way of managing the stress of being a mom and a psychologist.

Jennifer Larkin

In the fall of 2005 I found myself going through a divorce, beginning a new sales career in a start-up company and living by myself at the age of 31 for the first time in my life. I was in need of doing something that could benefit me both mentally and physically. Boot Camp was just the cure. I never thought in a million years that I could condition myself to wake up so early and be excited to start my day. But after attending Boot Camp I could run five plus miles without stopping and I began to have better muscle tone. My strength allowed me to do things I could never do before. Boot Camp truly got me in shape. All the encouragement I received really helped me achieve those goals important to me. It's a great way to meet new friends and, as an instructor, I only hope I can help pass on my experience to others.

Kellie McMaster

I attended my first Boot Camp in early 2005, after looking in the mirror and realizing that going to the gym a few times a week wasn't having the same effect it used to. I wanted and needed a change in my exercise program and boot camp seemed like a good fit. I lost only four pounds in my first month, but I dropped two sizes and could fit into my jeans from high school! I took two more camps as a student before becoming an instructor and have been hooked on the program ever since. The great workouts and the warmth of the people in the program are what sold me. I love the idea of making new friends while doing something healthy for my body. And, with the opening of the BTB gym in early 2007, participants get the added advantage of the challenging and innovative Crossfit workouts. Jeff and Melissa have created a wonderful community of health-conscious, fun-loving people with BTB boot camp. It's a unique experience everyone should try at least once.

Lauren Mross

I first started Boot Camp in April 2006. I have spent nearly my whole life running. At age 6, I ran my first 10k, finishing 3rd in my age group – 19 years and under. After competitive high school track and cross-country, I took a break from running, but remained active in other ways, such as hiking, biking, karate and rock climbing. I tend to get bored easily and in the spring of 2006, I was looking for an ideal daily fitness routine to keep my workouts fresh. I found the perfect fit with Boot Camp. I continue long distance running and enjoy traveling the US to run one or two half-marathons each year. As an instructor, I enjoy encouraging new Boot Campers to have fun with the program and to reach their fullest potential. The rest of my time is spent managing Goods For You, a design and marketing firm, and marketing Sanctuary Real Estate, a boutique intown real estate brokerage.

Brian Sullivan

A 40-year-old commercial real estate agent, I started Boot Camp in July 2005 with the hope of increasing lung capacity so I could run again. I was never able to stick to a workout regiment for more than a few weeks and my diet/eating habits were horrible. The day before I started Boot Camp I went for a jog and had to quit after about 10 minutes or so, gasping for air. After Boot Camp, I had my lungs back and was able to run 5k and 10k without much of a problem. Going through Boot Camp, as a student and then as an instructor, changed the way I eat and the way I work out. The friends and camaraderie gained from Boot Camp are irreplaceable... and the free t-shirt and coffee are a nice bonus.

Sean Sullivan

I first attended Boot Camp while I was a law student when a handful of my coworkers at a firm I was working for during one summer all decided to do it together. Not only was it a great way to interact with my coworkers in a different setting and build great relationships, it was an incredibly good workout that brought about excellent results in just thirty days. I stopped when I started getting busy again with law school because I thought I couldn’t spare the extra time, but after a while I missed it so much that I had to come back. The early morning workouts don’t get in the way of the rest of my busy schedule, especially because I make it a priority; it’s part of my daily routine that I just won’t sacrifice. I also come from a military background, and I find that the “military-style” workouts in Boot Camp get much better results and are a lot more fun than the traditional and rigid military workouts I did with the Army. This is especially true because of the scalability and flexibility of our workouts – everyone, from experienced triathletes to overweight couch potatoes, gets the exercise that they need in a fun and encouraging environment. The start date of my 'boot camp experience' was June 2006.

Kelly Teal

I first attended "bring a friend day" in the fall of 2005 and could not possibly imagine getting up at 5:45 am to work out. Then, after some encouragement, I signed up for it and I could not believe how much I loved it! It changed my life almost immediately-giving me more energy, more discipline, a leaner body and a healthier lifestyle. Boot Camp has been a life changing experience for me, and now I am so proud to say that I'm an instructor. The people involved with this group are simply amazing, the workouts are results-driven, and I am so excited to be a part of it!

Andy Waters

I was first introduced to BTB during Buckhead's Relay for Life in May of 2006. A month of boot camp was offered as a silent auction item, and I won it. I had no idea what I was getting into but knew I wanted to start exercising more seriously. I had been a member of a box gym and was not seeing any results. I will never forget my first week of boot camp in July of 2006. It was one of the hardest things I had ever done physically! I could not run the entire loop for my first PT test. While I didn't look too out of shape, I did not have any sort of endurance at all. Fast forward to today, and I am proof that boot camp is a jump start to a healthy lifestyle change. My endurance and strength have increased, and I am more conscious of the food that I choose to eat. One of the main reasons I enjoy boot camp and believe that it works is because of the encouragement you receive from the group workouts. No other workout program that I tried has the same camaraderie, intensity, and accountability that pushes you to the next level physically. Plus, you never get bored with the same routine because each day is completely different throughout the month. My advice to anyone even considering joining BTB is to just do it and commit to it because you will be amazed at how you will be addicted to it after just a few weeks!

Jason Weaver

I started with the BTB Boot Camp program in March of 2007. I was in fairly decent shape and wasn't looking to drop weight, rather become fit for my year round softball seasons. I was thoroughly amazed at the workouts and the instructor's willingness to encourage me to push myself in order to achieve the best results possible. After foot surgery in June 2007, the folks at BTB were excellent at working with me via their cross fit program to help me get back in shape after my rehab. I am very surprised and pleased with my fitness level after many months of working hard. I am 38 and in better shape than when I was 28. When asked to become an instructor, I said yes because I wanted to give back to the others that would follow me as boot campers. BTB is a great place to workout because we all care about each other and the boot campers as well. The friendships I have made are irreplaceable and I enjoy seeing them each and every morning!!! This has truly been a life changing experience and I am so glad I have made the commitment to having a healthy future.

Andrew Whitney

I started Boot Camp in May of 2004 after a neighbor convinced me that it was the best thing that had ever happened to him. My first day I remember walking out of the park and over to the first set of bushes so I could throw up. After about two weeks of Boot Camp I thought that I should find a way of quitting, but I just could not do it and kept going no matter what. I eventually finished that month and by September I was back at Boot Camp. The same was true for October, November and December. This has and continues to be a very rewarding program both physically and mentally, especially when one is able to help others make the same kind of improvements that I made. During the rest of the day I stay busy with my my wine importing business, my wife and my three children.

Shannon Wilkins

I started Boot Camp in October 2005. I got interested in Boot Camp through a friend who did it and had amazing results. I have always exercised and eaten healthy, but felt like I needed someone to push me harder! So, being a stay-at-home mother of three, I decided to take the Boot Camp challenge. I was amazed how much leaner I got and how much better I felt. The eating program is great. I am now married to another Boot Camp instructor and I was also a competitive runner for four years. The Boot Camp workouts make me feel better than all of my years of personal training and running.

Desiree Winburn

I started boot camp late last year for the first time knowing that it was going to kick my butt. But I made a commitment to get through the month, attend every day, eat appropriately and stop drinking alcohol. I followed through on two of my three goals, bet you can’t guess which two! Anyway I have been hooked ever since! I love being outside and really getting back to the basics of push ups, sit ups and running. I also took up cross fit and I am having a blast with that too. I not only feel better physically healthier, I lost weight and toned my entire body-I actually have abs yeah! I hope I can encourage and inspire boot campers to give it all their best every time they are working out in the park, just as my boot camp instructors did for me. Boot campers you will be amazed at the changes in your body and your soul if you do!

Alisa Winters

I started boot camp as a student in July 2006 and began as an instructor in September 2006. I have always been interested in health and exercise, and actually work as a dietitian here in Atlanta, but my normal gym routine had become boring and I was not being challenged, so I felt the need to spice things up. After hearing glowing recommendations about Boot Camp, I had to give it a try. Besides, I wanted to have toned arms and shoulders for my wedding dress. I got a lot more than just that! I could not believe how great of a workout I got, and how much I loved the feeling of waking up early and getting my workout out of the way for the day. I am now fully addicted to Boot Camp and can't get enough. I'm even sad on the weekends when there is no workout in beautiful Piedmont Park!

BTB Boot Camp Vinings

Pam Allen

My BTB experience began at a "Bring a Friend Day" at Piedmont Park. At first, I was hesitant to commit to even a day of rising before the sun. After day 1 - I was immediately hooked. I realized that I could have a fun workout with some of the most energetic, encouraging people - all before 7 AM. The results are real too. Over the course of two months, I made several trips to get my clothes altered. Before BTB – I had a long list of reasons I wanted to workout, with an even longer list of excuses not to get out there and actually do it. From, "I'm just not a morning person" to "Well, I planned on working out after work, but sure I’ll grab a beer with you" – it was hard to get motivated to go to the gym. Now, I have a routine that includes workouts that are never predictable and always challenging. I was asked to join the Vinings team in April, 2007. The campers and the instructors are a team, and we all have a whole lot of fun!

Cindy Erfurt

Like many people I had gotten to a point where I was bored with the gym, not working out consistently and therefore seeing no changes in my fitness level or body. I read an article in the local Smyrna/Vinings paper about the BTB Boot camp program and decided immediately that was exactly the jump start I needed for my workout routine. The early morning start time intimated me but I was determined to make a change. My first month of boot camp was great and I was hooked! It was hard work but it felt so good to accomplish such a great workout before 7am. And all the instructors were so encouraging and fun that I looked forward to getting up each morning. When they asked me to become an instructor in June 2007 I was flattered. It has been wonderful to help encourage and motivate people each month and it still amazes me how much progress people can make in just four weeks! That is what motivates me to keep pushing myself and to keep helping others to reach their fitness goals.

Kenneth Lester

My boot campexperience began in May 2007 at "Bring A Friend" day. I was invited by fellow instructor Robin Watkins. I really enjoyed the level of intensity and the attitudes of those involved. So, after that invigorating experience, I signed up for the next month as a boot camper. I have been involved ever since. I have always participated in sports and incorporated exercise into my lifestyle. However, the BTB experience is unique because the program includes "CrossFit" workouts, as well. Crossfit is a training regimen unlike any other, making the boot camp experience both exciting and effective. Every person I have introduced to the program has echoed my thoughts and sentiments. Since participating in BTB Boot Camp and CrossFit, my overall fitness level has increased. That includes everything from overall physical strength and power to endurance and flexibility, with the added bonus of an increase in exercise knowledge. The results may vary, but I can guarantee that all who try us out will be challenged.

Charles Mayfield

I had every excuse in the world not to go to BTB Bootcamp…a membership at LA Fitness, going through divorce, three knee surgeries, moving into a new house and a traumatic head injury in December 2006 that nearly killed me. I finally saw my knee doctor and he said “well, just go try it and be careful”. Always up for a challenge, I signed up in July 2007 when I knew it was hot and would be tough. I used to think I was in pretty good shape. As Lee Corso says ‘Not so fast my friend’. BTB has changed my life in so many ways…I don’t know where to begin. Perhaps just a summary: If you want to know what it feels like to be challenged, pushed, encouraged, confident, victorious…sign up tomorrow. NO EXCUSES….JUST RESULTS! My life is forever changed due to this amazing program. Give us 30 days and we’ll make you a better person.

Stacy Moldovan

In April of 2006, I looked in the mirror and was tired of feeling bad about myself. I was getting married that June and knew if I didn’t change my lifestyle, I was never going to feel like "the perfect bride!" So...I started bootcamp. The first month was the hardest, most trying 30 days of my life. But along the way, something incredible happened...I learned that I was stronger than I thought I was, my body was transforming and along with it my peace of mind. After 15 years or so of feeling like I was never good enough or pretty enough, I finally was starting to feel not just better, but amazing! Bootcamp not only put me in incredible shape for my wedding, it changed my life! Other than that, I work for 97.1 The River and love hanging out with my cute husband and our mini-schnauzer, Jackson. And of course, I love to travel and spend time with my girls here in Atlanta!

Kell Patush

I was first introduced to Boot Camp almost 2 years ago by a good friend but it wasn’t until July of 2007 that I joined BTB. My only regret now is that I didn’t do it earlier! I, like most brides, wanted to look perfect for my big day so I decided to do something different in order to get me into the best shape. Plus I had just turned 30 and I refused to look or feel any day older. I’ve always been a runner and did the typical weight machines at the gym but I never saw any big results. After a month of intense workouts and learning how to eat right, I became a new person inside and out. I found a competitive stronger toned person! The BTB Boot Camp program works because the instructors and campers care and are there each morning pushing you to get outside your comfort zone. I am honored to be instructor so I can help other campers like myself months ago discover a new person within themselves.