Frequently Asked Questions About USMC Fitness BOOT CAMP to (Sergeant) Tony Ludlow
Q. How long has USMC FITNESS been in operation?
A. I started USMC FITNESS in 1995 while living in Japan. I started USMC FITNESS in Memphis in August 1999.
Q. What's in it for me? What can BOOT CAMP do for me?
A. The goals are simple: health and fitness. The program is patterned after the workouts of recruits in Marine Corps boot camp and the results are proven. Weight / fat loss, muscle strength and tone, strong heart and lungs, increased endurance and stamina are but a few of the physical benefits you'll get from USMCF BOOT CAMP. Add to that an increase in self confidence, youthful appearance, well being, positive attitude, and increased energy.
Q. What is your military background?
A. I served for 10 years in the United States Marine Corps. Two of those years were spent as a Drill Instructor at Parris Island, SC ... Marine Corps Boot Camp.
Q. What do I need to bring to BOOT CAMP?
A. Everyday bring a mat. You'll need to bring a pair of dumbbells ... usually a set of 5 pounders for women and a set of 10 pounders for men ... to start with. A good pair of running shoes is a must, even if you're a walker and not a runner. And you should ALWAYS bring a positive "CAN DO!" attitude!
Q. What must I do to see results?
A. If you give 110%, at least 80% attendance to our workouts, and regulate your daily calorie intake to under 2000 (less than 1800 would be better), you'll see quick results.
Q. What is your fitness background?
A. I have been an athlete all my life. In addition to USMC FITNESS, I compete in triathlons and marathons, play golf, tennis and an occasional pick up game of basketball. I hold black belts in judo, karate, and Shorinji Kempo. I have been a professional coach at the high school level. I am a certified personal trainer, running coach, yoga instructor and the former athletic director, varsity boys basketball coach, and cross country coach at Memphis Catholic High School, where I also taught history. Additionally I am certified in CPR, Red Cross First Aid, and sports injury treatment and prevention.
Q. What do we do if it's raining?
A. If it's raining cats and dogs, we will gather in the gymnasium at Christ Methodist.
Q. How often is USMC FITNESS offered?
A. "Operation Get Fit" is an on-going operation! BOOT CAMP is offered Monday through Friday, 51 weeks a year, rain or shine! (We take off the week between Christmas and New Years.)
Q. Can I join at any time?
A. Yes, you don't have to wait until the beginning of a new month to begin. The first month fee will be adjusted so that you can get started immediately!
Q. Tony, how long will I hate you?
A. Most new recruits hate me for the first couple of weeks or so. I'm used to this! Hopefully, after that, you'll be able to tolerate me better. Seriously, the workouts are challenging and you'll be sore for a few days. This is good and normal. Just stay at it and don't quit!!!
Q. How can I get up in the morning on a consistent basis?
A. Contrary to what many think, I am NOT a morning person. I have to be "dynamited" out of the bed! Here are some tips to help you get going in the morning:
- Use two alarm clocks. I have a snooze alarm that starts going off several minutes before I intend to get up. Then I have a "Last Call" alarm clock that is located across the room. This alarm clock is set to go off when I MUST get up.
- Once the last call alarm goes off, the bed become OFF LIMITS! Get moving!
- Get out of bed, turn off the alarm clock, and start turning on lights all through the house. Turn on the TV.
- Lay out your clothes the night before. Don't go wandering around the house in the morning trying to find your left shoe and your favorite shorts. So, have things ready the night before.
