The tester
Kate Chambers: 'I was keen to kick-start a solid fitness regime that will see me through the winter and I was in dire need of motivation.'
The lowdown
'Although they run camps throughout the UK, I have opted for the luxury boot camp in Tuscany. The location is a challenge in itself: a wine lover trying to lose weight, clear the head and get fit... in the middle of a Tuscan vineyard. For me, though, pastoral beauty as a backdrop to my suffering is an essential ingredient. A secluded farmhouse with epic views across Tuscan hillsides does not disappoint.
'The group consists of six women ranging from their late 20s to mid 50s. The regime is structured to work us hard all morning with afternoons open for strolls around Florence or recuperating around the pool at this handsome estate. Our routine is quickly established. Getting up at 7am to run (yes, run) up a fairly steep hill is the most gruelling part. This is followed by four to five hours of boxing, kettle bells and weights.
'The training is highly intuitive, with just the right amount of encouragement, nurturing and support. I marvel at the trainer's deft hand as he keeps us on track to achieve our individual goals. An optional evening workout is followed by a delicious dinner sourced from local ingredients, GM-balanced and served on a candlelit terrace with wine if we want it. Portions are smaller than I am used to but hunger doesn't seem to be a problem. And I sleep better than I have in years.'
The result
'We do all lose weight but it's the rapid increase in fitness levels produced by this intense level of exercise that really impresses, and motivates. One month on and I'm continuing to lose weight (those smaller portions?) and am putting a lot more effort into my gym sessions.'
The cost
A week in Tuscany starts at £1,395 for a double (sharing) or £2,225 for single supplement. Visit fit-bootcamp.com.
Read High Life's selection of six of the best bootcamps.
