Lindenhurst sets 2nd fitness boot camp

If you've struggled to lose that extra baggage around your waist or are tired of huffing after climbing the stairs, it might be time to join boot camp.

About 200 people will begin an intense eight-week boot camp-style weight loss and fitness program at Lindenhurst Health and Fitness Center. The center is kicking off its second-annual "Lose to Win" program Saturday.

Last year, eight teams of 25 people lost almost 1,000 pounds. The person who safely loses the most weight will win $1,000 in cash.

"Given the economic climate and associated stress levels, there is never a more appropriate time to focus on our health and well being," said the center's director, Eric Nelson.

There are 18 different boot camps offered at various times each week where participants will work out in some nontraditional exercises.

"It's aggressive and demanding," said Mike Harger, a 52-year-old business owner from Libertyville who joined last year's event. "They had us carrying sandbags up flights of stairs. We worked with ropes and tires. At one point, we were basically doing the breast stroke all the way across the gym floor. It was pretty intense."

The idea is to move quickly from one exercise to the next. It's designed to work the whole body, with an emphasis on the heart and muscles.

Nelson said there is still time to join a team. The boot camp cost is included with the $75 membership fee. The center is at 3098 Falling Waters Blvd.

Nelson believes being part of a fitness-seeking team has it's advantages.

"This is a good kind of peer pressure," he said. "Being part of a team effort is a big help in achieving fitness goals."