Beginning May 1, Fontana Fitness will start the first of two "boot camps" this season. If you have never experienced one, they can truly change your life.

As I have discussed in past articles, it can be quite difficult to get enough wind in your sails to start an exercise routine. Boot camps can be an amazing way to do that, while meeting new, healthy friends and gaining the confidence you need to finish your fitness race strong.

One area in which a boot camp can help is the development of self-confidence and inner strength.

Oftentimes, individuals who join our camps are dealing with difficult, real-life issues, and I commend them for showing up and taking a chance to improve their overall well-being.

An amazing thing about exercise is that, although it can feel like you beat down your body, you actually build up yourself.

Currently, I have clients I met through our boot camps last year, and when I see how fit they are now, I'm so proud of them. Exercise has given them physical and emotional strength.

Are you filled with stress or in a funk? Chances are, a great deal of stress invades your world.

The pace of life we Americans live with is often downright unhealthy. I tell my clients that when they exercise, along with every drop of sweat, out goes weakness, stress and fat -- so let's create some sweat.

You might need a friend who can share in the difficulty you're feeling through your initial workouts. This social engagement can be stress-reducing in itself and many new friends can be made at boot camp.

When individuals work as a group and are put through some serious physical challenges together, they develop a special bond, essentially becoming a team.

Growing up playing sports, I remember my coaches using a well-known phrase in the gym: "Pain is temporary, but pride is forever." At the time, I'm sure my thoughts about it were not very positive, but looking back, now I realize that you can't put a price tag on self-worth and confidence.

We all have areas in our lives or issues with our bodies that we just don't feel proud of or confident about. I now realize that through hard work and patience we build that confidence.

I have failed at many things, but I understand now that after each defeat I have grown. I've actually come to embrace challenges and road bumps, because I know I'll walk out a better person afterwards.

So, I challenge anyone who has the slightest curiosity or interest about exercise to start today and get moving now. Use a team approach and exercise with friends.

Of course, I would love to see all of you at one of our boot camps, but I truly just want the people in this great country to reduce stress, get off the couch and get into shape. Make your confidence shine bright and encourage someone else to do so, too.

Troy Fontana owns Fontana Fitness at the Sparks Marina. Contact him at 331-6918 or by e-mail at getfit@fontanafitness.com