Here is what people have to say about Ottawa Adventure Boot Camp.

Hi Robert Just wanted to send you a note to let you know that bootcamp has been more than I ever imagined it would be. After only 2 sessions, I have been so impressed by the planning and organization around each workout, and the individual attention I have received to make sure I am doing the exercises correctly. I signed up to get some structure in my workouts, now I understand why so many ladies keep coming back. This really is better than having a personal trainer. I am going to stick with 3 days a week for the summer, but I'm seriously looking at my priorities in the Fall to try to make 4 days work. If only I could also convince a few friends that 5:30 is not too early! Thanks so much for your daily emails, inspirations and extra information. Way over and above my expectations! See you Friday! I'm in the front row with the pink bandana. Coreen

"Thanks for a great Bootcamp! I took it completely on a whim and ended up having loads of fun...not sure this sort of thing would qualify as "fun" for most people - those hours meant my social life was pretty well kaput since I had to be in bed so early -No regrets- and I sure had a blast learning all the new exercises, getting stronger, and making some new friends. That bleeping beep test is a killer, though!! Thanks to both of you for all your hard work - it's obvious that you're committed to what you're doing, and more than happy to share your knowledge and experience. Rob, it was super having an instructor who was so keen and really wanting us to get the most out of the workouts. I found that very motivating and always felt fantastic after each session. I am definitely interested in the outdoor bootcamp, so I'll keep an eye on the web site. Thanks again, and all the best for the holidays and the new year! "

Grace C.

Linda McArthur

"I never thought I would be able to get up at 4:30 for any reason, but I never regretted having gone to a workout and I always enjoyed it. Its kinda addictive after a while, I love the Buzz after every workout, I'm on such a high. "

Vicki Plant

"I am a believer. I had a tough race to run after Boot camp and if it were not for the strength and endurance that I built up there, I would not have been able to do it. Thanks Rob , I'll be attending another camp"

Theresa Roberts

"Thanks to Rob's excellent leadership, creative workouts and my hard work, wearing that little black dress is now a reality. Exercising was never this fun. I look forward to the next session. Kristine "

K. Fritz

"I always thought that getting up at 05:30 and going to the gym was tough until I did the Ottawa Women's Bootcamp, there I realized my true limits. With Rob's prodding, pushing and sometimes yelling, I always managed one more push-up, one more of almost anything. For those of you who want to to get in shape, have fun doing it and make new friends, I strongly encourage you to take the Bootcamp, it is wonderful. "

Elizabeth, Military

"Hi Rob, Thanks very much for a wonderful 'boot camp' experience. I would highly recommend it to anyone capable of getting up at an ungodly hour. I loved the workouts, and only wish they were at a time when I could be awake. I'll keep my eyes open for the next running workshop here at Health Canada, so maybe our paths will cross again. Take care, C "

Cheryl (where's my coffee?)

"Hi Joanne and Rob, Congratulations on another successful Boot Camp! You guys are the reason we all succeed. If it weren't for your inspiration and guidance there is no way we'd get up that early to exercise. I'm rather jealous that I was not able to see the camp through to the end but I wanted to say Thank you for making me get up early and proving to myself that I can be athletic when I put my mind to it! It made those cold winter months go by that much nicer. I totally enjoyed every camp and dare I say looked forward to them?... I wish you both continued success with the Boot Camp, I have been spreading the word, and I know that I shall return. In the meantime, I am loving my grey and white skipping rope! Thanks so much! Cheers, DB "

Daniella

"Rob… you are a great leader and I loved your Bootcamp! I'm sad it's already over. As I’ve said before, signing up for this adventure has been the best thing I’ve done for myself in a long time. 5:30 am is peanuts when I think of the rewards. I FEEL ENERGIZED AND STRONG. Thank you and I look forward to my next camp! ML"

Mimi

" Hi Rob and Johanne I really enjoyed the “Run camp”. In addition to learning how to run, I was hoping to lose weight, and build muscle. Well, I did all that and also met some wonderful people. I can best describe your boot camp as “Never easy, always fun!” I will definitely do another boot camp in the fall. Thanks SM "

Sally

"I had an excellent time! I learned just how far I can push myself. No more wimping out for me. I really appreciated the variety in the workouts; it gave me the opportunity to discover different types of exercise that I may not have tried. I also had just enough taste to know what my “knee” will allow, and what I will continue with. The improvement in my own strength, both physical and mental is reward enough. I really enjoyed the last circuit training we did. It was well laid out and challenging and I felt that I could complete it and stay with my group. The hikes will always be my favorite. I also enjoyed working on the top of the hill in the morning sun. Thanks! Nicole "

Nicole Camp 4

""I have always been a very active person from soccer to softball, boxing to duathlon's, from team sports to individual challenges, always pushing to go faster and get stronger. Then Bootcamp came along and provided a new challenge a team like environment with individual goals. Everyone's goal is different for them and promoting that is what makes Bootcamp for all levels of fitness work. Women encourage, push and support each other, Rob provides a safe environment in which he is able to get the best effort from everyone who wants to give it, with his own positive brand of encouragement, pushing and support. Awesome job Robert!" Sally Butler Canadian Team Member World's Duathlon Championship 2006 "

Sally Camp 1, 3,4 and 5

" Comment: When my family & friends ask me “How was boot camp today?” my response was always the same, “I love it”. Rob is an excellent coach. He is positive and always encouraging us to do the best we can do. What a fantastic group of ladies to work out and share some laughs with. I feel stronger, not only physically but mentally. I beat out the little voice in my head that would try to convince me (daily) to “sleep in, miss one day”. I highly recommend this to all! Thanks Rob and Johanne for a wonderful experience. Vicki Callihoo "

Vicky Callihoo Camp 5

"Rob & Johanne I really enjoyed the boot camp. My goal was to “kick-start” myself into becoming physically active. I like the changes that I’ve seen in my strength and endurance. I’m determined to continue to see what else I can accomplish! My husband’s goal is to run a half marathon one day….maybe he could even convince me to give it a try! Thanks again. I hope you both have a wonderful summer. Betty "

Betty Camp 5

"Hi Bob! What a terrific week it's been!!! Today's boxing workout was particularly exciting... as a girl I have never really thrown a punch before and wasn't sure I'd take to it but what a blast! Your teaching methods make learning easy and fun and who would have ever thought I'd look forward to getting up at 4:30 every morning to go out and work hard in the rain... Just wanted to let you know I'm having a wonderful time and looking forward to the challenges ahead! Thanks for the fun and motivating mornings! Claire "

Claire B Camp 7

"Comment: No question, it is a boot camp! But a well-organized, well-designed and well-conducted one. Great demonstrations and corrections also. One can only benefit from those 4 weeks. Have I lost weight? I don’t know. But I sure am stronger and have more energy. Of course, getting up that early is a challenge in itself but once on site, I was ready to push hard. Thank you Bob and Johanne for all your support. "

Marielle Camp 5

"Boot camp was a tremendous opportunity to reach a level of fitness where I finally feel I can take on a fitness program and succeed.. Unfortunately the deck was very much stacked against me to get out of the house at 0530 am. With a clingy young baby who still sleeps with me- any sudden movement would wake him up -but, I still managed to get there most of the time.. Many of my friends are planning to take the program at some point and I may participate in the smaller group sessions when I have more time to myself......As someone who has taken almost every program over the years, from running, weight training, swimming, cycling, aerobics, spinning and much more. I thought I had learned it all.. I found so many new exercises in the boot camp experience, and more effective ways to perform old ones. I wanted to thank you both so much.. You are an excellent trainer and motivator and I am sorry I didn't get a chance to come to the last day ....'cos I can do 60 push-ups.. hahaha...Dib "

Dibby

"And also, boot camp was AWESOME. I never thought I had it in me to push myself that hard (although the lunges- ewww- pure torture). I loved it. I feel so great. I actually got up this morning (on a Saturday) and went for a run and then did sit ups and push ups. holy guacamole. That is not how I used to spend Saturday mornings. I can't imagine not being active, there is just no going back to pre boot camp life. Thanks for running these great camps. This may sound dramatic, but for me the camp has really changed my life for the better. I can't thank you enough! see you on Wednesday? Thanks! Renee "

R N

"Hi Rob, Just wanted to let you and Johanne know that I had a fantastic time this past weekend. Makes me sorry that I never got the chance to go to summer camp as a child. It was great being with like minded women and to hear that we all a challenge of some sort to overcome and hear all the positive ways that they deal with them. So much nicer than the whining that you usually hear from those negative people that we all seem to have to interact with in our lives. It was a great reminder to stay focused on our goals and inspiration to keep working. I started on this journey to better fitness about a year ago now and I know that your camps are an important piece of what has made me successful so far. Just comparing what I was like a just 12 short months ago to today it is incredible to consider the results....and I am not done yet. The whole weekend was well planned and just the right mix of activites and rest. Thanks for a wonderful weekend warrior camp and as Arnold would say, I'll be back. Luisa"

Luisa

"Rob: What a great picture! - DOVE should really use this one their commercials. REAL and Powerful and healthy women - all working towards the same goal - to feel good (better) about themselves - for nobody else but themselves.! What an inspirations too. I have printed this and put it on my "wall of fame" at work - with the "Warrior group". That's my inspiration. I don't know how much feedback you actually get from your 'girls', but would like to add my 2 cents worth. I don't know if I ever feel as good in any day as when I have completed a morning boot camp workout. You know who to push and when to push us and I appreciate that.... thanks. Not only that, but through the program, I have met a lot of great women and found friendships with women of 'like' interests whom I would never have gotten to know in any other milieu - - and that in itself is amazing ..... I have signed up to do the PARE testing on Thursday (not due til Dec, but feel I am good to go..... even with the groin pull) Thursday morning will be my warm-up and get my muscles prepared. Then Friday I am off to Amman for 3 weeks. What a great way to end off the month!. Anyway, that's it for me - thanks again - I'll be back at McNabb in November/December - 3 day program. (I box on Tue / Thurs with Nomad (minimum) which completes my 5 hrs/ week training) See you on Wednesday. Jean "

Jean S, Camp 6

"To Rob and all the strong, wonderful women of Boot Camp. Just want to send a wee message to say 'so long, and 'thanks'........... When I started my first Boot Camp - at the RCMP gym in Oct 2005 - I wondered what I was getting myself into .... then I signed up for the next camp held at McNabb, and got hooked! With all the competitive bones in my body, it didn't take me long (I don't think) to get into the groove and push myself and, it was through your encouragement that I have become a stronger person (mentally and physically). I am really happy to know that I encouraged some of you in the process because you were my inspiration too........ Thank you Rob, for having developed and offered this medium for us women - I'm sure you never even realized how popular this would become and how important these Boot Camps have been for us. Your coaching, inspiration, words of wisdom emails and striving to improve the camps was (is) top notch (the pushups didn't hurt either). During the time I did Boot Camps, I went through 3 (RCMP) PARE-4 tests (in under 4 minutes) and that, in itself I think is a demonstration of the full power of what Boot Camp does for us women. I know, it made me feel strong, powerful and healthy. And girls....... wherever I have been, until Boot Camp I have never had the pleasure of being in the company of, bonding with, and forming friendships with - such a strong, vibrant group of women. No matter where I go, I will take with me the strength, courage and 'love' (dumb word, but it fits) that you have all demonstrated and shared with me over these past 2 1/2 years. Thanks for all the fun, the laughs, the hard work, the aching muscles and most of all, the comraderie. I don't know what I will do without you girls...... Jean"

J Seaborne RCMP

"Rob, that's it. I'm hooked. I signed up for the next camp. I'm only going to do it 3X week this time because it is further travel time to downtown and my husband has to go to work early on tues/thurs... I've got to say that I originally joined bootcamp for the 4 week session to kick start me back into shape... which it did, thank you... then I liked it so much I joined the following session... and I thought "8 weeks is all I need then I will go back to my regular pre-bootcamp routine working out at the gym"... and on my way back from bootcamp this morning I was sitting in my car, feeling fantastic (as usual after bootcamp) and I thought... I am addicted to this feeling and I am going to be sad when it is over... so I signed up for the next session. And I am happy that it is going to be Xtreme.... as you can see, I am competitive and I love to push myself to my maximum and I think that the next session will bring it to a higher level. When people ask me "isn't it hard to get up so early" I say. "no. because I love it" Anyways, thats all I have to say. I'll see you tommorrow. Mia "

Mia Addicted BootCamper HooAah

"Good Monday Morning my far-away-friends As I was stumbling through a 0615 step class at the Good Life Fitness (at my office) and realizing how much I REALLY HATE STEP CLASSES - and had forgotten just HOW MUCH I REALLY HATE STEP CLASS I was thinking how much better OVERALL and how much I ENJOYED Boot Camp. GIRLS, YOU ARE REALLY LUCKY!!!!!! And here's why: 1) Step class - nobody talks to you VS at Boot Camp everyone helps/pushes/sympathizes/talks to everyone else 2) Step class - No hugs (no smiles) VS hugs anytime you want/need them at Boot Camp 3) Step up, step down, turn around, step up, step down, kick, step up, step down / get the picture VS variety, variety, variety 4) Step class - the Same 'uppy, peppy' music every time, over and over VS sometimes country, sometimes rock, sometimes corney, sometimes pop - always variety 5) Step class - watching some peppy little, perfect figured girl who glows instead of sweats, making perfect moves in front of you VS Bob - yelling, cajoling, joking, pushing, demonstrating and making us work to our limits - and feel good about it. 6) Step class - uninspiring, un-motivating VS Boot Campers!!!!!! a group of ladies who challenge themselves, inspiring to do better, pull higher (pullups) go further and by doing so inspires their 'sisters' to do better, pull higher, go further etc etc etc. In short - Boot Camp is way better because of all the day to day efforts of Rob, to make challenging and full of variety. Boot Camp is way better because of ALL YOU GIRLS - and the attitudes you bring with you. So, that's about it ..... I'm sure there's more, but I just had to write and tell you girls that I really miss you girls (and Rob) and our morning workouts together. There is really nothing like it out there!!!!!! I hope you are all well and enjoying this session (you are indoors at McNabb now right.) Boot Camper Jean "

Jean Seaborn GRC

"Just wanted to offer a quick thanks for a couple of things. First, your public announcement worked and now Claudia is giving me a lift every morning - I no longer have to wait in the parking lot on my own for half and hour and I get back home in time to have breakfast with my boyfriend, a lovely way to start the day! Also - wow, bootcamp really works! After making it through the first week (which was really tough, I've got to say...) I have so much energy! I run up stairs just for the heck of it! I've also noticed new muscles that I never had before, even little baby triceps! I feel incredible and there are still two weeks to go. Many, many thanks. Cheers, Cassandra "

Cassandra

"Hi Rob, I'm back from a relaxing honeymoon in beautiful Punta Cana... these arrived this morning from our photographer. I must say, when you look at my before and after pictures its quite amazing. Bootcamp help me shake out of my plateau and pushed my above and beyond what I thought I was capable of. I've always been self conscious about my arms, having lost 100lbs they seemed to be more flabby then anything else... but I was shocked to see the wedding pictures and my rather toned looking arms! :) Ironically bootcamp has also made the aerobics classes I once thought were a tough workout seem pretty low key. I actually left in the middle of the class last night, and went and did some sprints on the treadmill instead followed by pushups and situps of course! I'll be back for more hard work (as I fondly refer to it is torture) in the next few sessions. Thanks for everything Rob! Amy :) "

Amy M. BootCamp Extreme

"When I joined Bootcamp 3 years ago, I had gained weight; I was going to the gym at work and spinning. Obviously I needed more and I needed to be pushed. I had seen an advertisement posted at the corner of Riverside Dr. and Hunt Club Rd. and decided to call. I finally did my first bootcamp in October but then I heard that Rob was coming to my work and decided to do it there. I enjoyed it so much I joined the next camp that ran from November to Christmas. I was disappointed when camps in the winter months were held in Kanata, it was too far for me to commute. June the next year the camp went back to Mooney's Bay for the summer, I then returned and has been there ever since. Rob has quite a few challenging exercises depending on the size of weights you use and how much you push yourself. For example it could be a heavier elastic band or kettlebell, and he also finds ways of doing some exercises for the more advanced people. There's also the burpee with a push-up, a wall squat and toss the ball that sure wakes up some muscles that haven't been used for awhile. And let’s not forget about going up and down stairs with one or two sandbags over your shoulder. The benefit of the Bootcamp is that all the ladies are there for the same reason, either to loose weight, get toned and have fun. I've experienced lots of changes. I remember when Rob first introduced me to kettlebells, I did not enjoy the training. It was a hard workout, good cardio and strength training. I tried convincing myself if it's difficult to do it must be good for me. Not long after, I started to notice changes in my body, the fat was coming off...I was loosing weight from the butt & hips and muscle became more toned. I had to start buying smaller clothes, it made me work harder and got smaller. I had more energy not to mention it felt good when people were noticing it. At Bootcamp on our first day every month, we would introduce ourselves and tell everyone what our goals would be. I was extremely flattered and a little uncomfortable when some ladies would say they wanted to look like me. I continue to work very hard to be where I am. As a result, I now love kettlebells and have recently become a Certified RKC Instructor. The things I like about Bootcamp are everyone encourages each other, no matter what size or age it's like my second family. I made lots of friends and we do races together and other sports outside Bootcamp. "

Monique C.

"There have been a lot of physical changes since I started attending in January. I’ve changed clothes sizes; I have toned and have found myself with more energy. Those changes feel great, but what I didn’t expect when signing up for my first camp in order to get fitter was just how many mental changes I’d see. I sleep better, which has lent itself to more patience and a more relaxed sense of being. I am inspired to give more in my life by the other women and their friendship, by Rob’s continuous pursuit of knowledge and training, by his desire to pass this knowledge to us at camp, and by the care he takes in creating the circuit each day so it’s always fresh and challenging — for first-time and return campers alike. I’ve found the confidence to try other physical activities I had never thought I had the strength or endurance to try. I no longer question whether or not I can do something, because I know I can. I view myself as athletic, which is quite far from the label I wore through childhood until 35 years of age. I feel and am really empowered. "

Nicole P.

"In May and June 2008, I took Rob's 3 and then 5 day bootcamps, all with the intention of mental strenghtening for long distance endurance run in July. The camps are the hardest thing I have ever done, having said this, they have given me more confidence and have strenghtened my mental endurance to the point of being able to continue to push my limits. The Kettle Bell workouts are fun, challenging, engaging and the camaderie, along with Rob's coaching makes the 5:30 AM Boot Camps very inviting and always the fastest hour of the day. I never thougth I would get up at 4:45AM. I find it almost zen like, under the stars and moon. There is something very soothing about circuit training on the track, or beach workouts looking out towards the river and pushing yourself, along women of various ages and capabilities. This is without a doubt one of Ottawa's best kept secrets. I would recommend it to any one who is looking to truly strenghten mind, body and soul. Be prepared to work, no real changes come from something that is easy. The extra Saturday co-ed kettle bell classes are an added bonus. Thank you Rob, for the ongoing variety of the workouts and amazing coaching strategies. I look forward to more boot camps and finish the month of September knowing that I did my best this month, at another one of your 3 day Boot Camp programs. "

Linda Wagar

"It was that time of year again, no not Christmas, but the one day of the year that I treat myself to something special. Usually, this day, which I like to refer to as the “Treat Angela Day,” involves a trip to the Spa to enjoy a relaxing massage or facial. However, this year, my treat to self was a month at the Ottawa Adventure Boot Camp for Women. I am a busy mother of three very active children, and although they keep me on my toes, I felt it was time to get back into a regular, exercise program. The reason that I opted to enlist in boot camp, which some would consider extreme, was to jump start myself back into fitness. I was not interested in tip toeing my way back into shape; I was ready to jump in with both feet. And, jumping, quite literally, became a big part of the month that followed, frog jumping to be exact! This exercise, although simple in concept, was a challenge. For that matter, every exercise was a challenge, that is, if performed correctly and with proper form. Yet, if I had to choose one, it would undoubtedly be the kettlebell snatch. The snatch requires power and endurance and is a killer, as is waking up at 4:50 A.M. in order to get to the 5:30 A.M class on time! Thankfully, both became easier as the month progressed. During this month, the benefits of camp quickly became evident. Not only was I getting a complete body workout but I was having fun at the same time. Yes, call me crazy, but I thrived on these exhausting and physically demanding workouts and looked forward to the next one. In just four weeks, working out three days per week, I was achieving my goals. I had gained strength and endurance, improved my flexibility and acquired remarkable energy. I also began noticing subtle muscle definition to my body, namely my arms. I looked and felt great! Crazy Angela liked everything about boot camp. The exercises were varied, challenging and effective. The team environment was motivating and friendly thanks to the leadership of Rob and Johanne Harris. Furthermore, the once challenging early morning wake up quickly became routine and a positive start to my day. I am now hooked on boot camp and plan on treating myself on a regular basis! "

Angela P.

"Rob I just wanted to tell you that I just love love love bootcamp. Its one of the best things Ive ever done for myself. Thank you so much for this class. I find you and Sally really really great motivators. Jessica "

Jessica

"Rob, Thanks so much for sharing the pictures of the ladies. Wow, sure makes it hard for me to see as I so wanted to be there alongside working out. I gave my shoulders a really good rest. Maybe too much of a rest, but I really wanted to ensure they would be good to go and fully recovered. I just did too much during the week before they flared-up (too much shovelling & extra work with weights). I've learned since, my muscles do indeed need a day in between to recover. As much as I want to achieve a particular goal, too much is not good for someone in my shape. I haven't done a lot of exercise the last two weeks and am sure feeling the downside to that. Surprisingly, I'm still meeting my weight lose goals. This past weekend I felt it difficult to do only two push-ups. Yikes!!!! I missed two weeks of your program and can't believe how quickly all the work I did can start to slip away. I'll surely do my best to keep up with exercise over the holidays. Thank you very much for the nice Christmas card. I wish you and your family a blessed season and a great New Year! You conduct an EXCELLENT AND EFFECTIVE exercise program. For every compliment I receive, I make it known that I would not have achieved these results if it wasn't for Ottawa's Best Boot Camp! Thanks. Kim Moore"

Kim

"Hey Rob, Great video! Another month down..many more to come!! Testimonial: I had never thought anything called "Bootcamp" would be so exhilarating! Not only do you get into great shape and lose fat, but you meet wonderful people that you look forward to seeing everyday (even if he is yelling "WORK HARDER LADIES!"). Ottawa Adventure Bootcamp is addictive, try it once and you will be back. It is the best way to start your day! Sandra Ryan See you Monday Rob! Sandra "

Sandra Camp 5 2009

"Hi Rob, Unfortunately, I had to miss camp this morning as I’m at the office, and tomorrow we are heading off on vacation so I’ll miss Friday as well, but I just wanted to say again how much I love your camp. Without a doubt you push me more than I would ever do myself. I’m very happy with the slow and steady progress I’m making…and there is definitely more work to do! I totally agree with you; this is a life style change. I’m going to do my best to work out most days that we are away (and keep the margaritas to a minimum!!!). Keep those tabatas coming! See you soon, Nancy "

Nancy C Camp 2 Feb. 2010