24/07/2026
Hey Gang,
Time to Meet our July Member.
He started with us back in December and has fitted in like he has been training for years. Great sense of humour and banter to go with it.
Here is Richards story
I joined Boot Camp last winter after a tough 2025. Fitness had always been important to support the sports I love β rugby, running and kayaking β but as I passed 50, it gradually faded into the background as other priorities took over and my ability to commit to, and keep up with, structured team activities declined.
By the time I started in December, I wasn't taking great care of myself. I was wearing two knee braces and had a strapped shoulder. Within a few weeks, I could already see the difference. The supports have now disappeared, and I feel stronger and fitter than I have in years.
I have a busy job that requires regular travel, and with two children at home β a tweenage daughter and an energetic eight-year-old son who is never happy unless he's active β getting to every session each week isn't always possible. The flexibility of Boot Camp to attend one, two or three times a week, combined with the pay-as-you-go approach, means you never feel like you're losing out when life gets in the way and a session is missed.
Another thing I was lacking in December was motivation. Nick was welcoming from day one, always offering encouragement and support to help everyone take part at whatever level they were capable of on that particular day. Joining a new group can be daunting, but the members are amazing. Every session is filled with conversation and laughter β even during those dark, wet and freezing January mornings.
On my very first day, we did a session in teams of three, and there was more than one offer to join a group. That immediately made me feel welcome. Since then, I've felt genuine friendships developing alongside the fitness improvements. I'm looking forward to continuing both journeys at Tadley and seeing where they take me.