Don't just take our word for it, here are some comments from national newspapers, magazine editors and clients:
"The Camp has been one of the most amazing experiences of my life. I am a slight 'boot camp addict' & have attended similar style programmes in America, Europe & the UK. I've got to be honest though, out of all of them, The Camp has delivered the best short and longer term results, and the team are the most professional by far. They deliver on the week itself but I've lost more weight since I've got home. The big difference is that whilst the others offer a 'quick fix' and do give you an instant weight loss, they only focus on cutting calories and doing lost of aerobics through boring hiking....and to be honest, I quickly put the weight on again when I got home. What I really liked at The Camp is that you not only get great results at the end of the week.....but because you're actually learning how to raise your metabolism, you get ongoing results, even after you get home. I'm much more motivated and knowledgeable now about how to make those crucial lifestyle changes we all think about....but never actually get round to doing! And I'm seeing (and other people are seeing big differences!!). All that's great, but the really big thing for me was the team itself. They are just fantastic. It's a truly honest approach - they don't use gimmicks or so called 'celeb' endorsements. You won't see TV nutritionists, celebrities that want to restart their ailing career, or any 'beauty' gimmicks - what you see is what you get! They give everybody 'one to one' treatment and results that really make a difference - not only physically but mentally & emotionally - it will change your life forever! I can't rate The Camp highly enough, and I won't be wasting my time or money with any of the 'alternatives' in the future."
Lindsay Cowan - London
‘I had an absolutely fantastic week and I thorougly enjoyed the week and all the activities - my clothes are fitting me nicely now! It was brilliantly run, the team were fantastic and was inspiring on many levels. I felt so mentally cleansed by the experience and we were all so very fortunate to be there and to be in such a lovely place and with such lovely weather - I also made some cracking friends too and fear that I am going to be one of those repeat offenders! I am glowing with health and vitality and it was truly one of the best experiences I have ever had! Please pass on my very best to all the guys and Helen and my heartfelt thanks for everything they put into it.'
Jackie Lewellyn-Bowen
‘I had suffered for 7 months with depression. The Camp changed my mindset and helped turn my life around. It is so true that ‘The Camp' is the perfect remedy for anyone with negative feelings or lack of esteem following a break up, bereavement, a divorce or similar. The course sends you home full of self confidence and positive energy feeling great about yourself. I cannot tell you how good I felt throughout the whole week and even better when given the results! It takes you right back to basics as there are no fancy clothes/ make up/hair – it's just you and the rest of the girls….! It was amazing what we achieved in only one week and I have gone forward with my life with renewed hope and enthusiasm.
Although the week has ended the support has not, from both The Camp and "the girls"
What a fantastic experience – thanks to the awesome team at The Camp!'
Linda Scott
A massive thank you to all of you. You are a truly amazing team. The whole experience was made by those brilliant chaps who kept us going. I think they each deserve a Victoria Cross !
Hazel Kenmore - Scotland
I haven't quite calmed down after the euphoria of having such a great time and as an added benefit losing 10lbs, 2 inches from my waist and 1.5 from my hips and regaining some abs and muscles in my arms. I opted for The Camp mainly for a week of outdoorsy exercise rather than primarily for weight loss but I am fantastically pleased with what you helped me to achieve. Several people have commented on how well I look generally and how I am (rather too) full of energy, the boys at work are all very envious of all of the fun things that I did, and I feel as if I have been away for a month rather than just a week (in a good way).
I particularly wanted to say how much I appreciated the unfailing patience and encouragement from the instructors, especially Bobby and Roman. It can't be easy having to cope with such a range of fitness and , even within a group, Bobby was absolutely charming all week, always knowing who was slightly struggling on each exercise and quietly dropping back to spur them on. Though I never did manage to wring a well done out of Bobby on the Trim Trail hill reps, so I have a goal for next time... But on the abseil (which was not my finest hour!) when I was shaking like a girl at the top of the rock, first Sam and then Bobby and Roman talked me through it and never once gave the impression that they wanted to tell me to pull myself together and get on with it, which I am sure they all felt.
I glided, rather than ran, into work this morning and though pounding London pavements is miserable compared with being in the hills, I was bursting to get out of the door after 2 days of enforced rest and I am definitely back in the running game; I even managed to knock 5 mins off my pre-Camp time by using something Sam said on the last evening - pain is unfitness leaving the body, which I love. I am now eyeing the Peak District weekend (Buxton is where I grew up so I am trying to justify it on those grounds) and the Advanced Fitness course in Scotland in October.
Emily - London
Just a short note to thank the staff for all their efforts last week and I am delighted that I lost 12 lbs and I am determined that this is only the start.
The staff are so professional and due to their professionalism I attempted the activities I did knowing I could trust them.
The food was fantastic too - I will be back & would love to join you in Spain!
Frances Harvais - Sussex
Thanks for a truly great week. Please pass on all my thanks to Sam,
Bobby, Euan, Matt, Alan and Helen. They looked after us so well and gave
us all so much fun, inspiration, knowledge and enthusiasm - well beyond
what might be expected. When I think about how awful a week like this
could be if done the wrong way by the wrong people it gives me chills.
But I'm only aware of it now because I've truly seen the masters at work.
So, do let them know that I had a ball and loved every minute of it,
even the bit where I was swearing at the mountain bike, and appreciate
the effort they put in more than I can say.
Having lost a whopping 8 and a half pounds I'm back on track with my exercise
plans. I sincerely hope to be able to do another camp at some point in the future,
and I'll keep my eye on the website.
Catriona Craig - London
'What can I say. I had quite the most extraordinary time. A
wonderful group of girls, an even better group of boys and experiences
I will never forget. I haven't stopped talking about it all since
my return and my boys can't quite believe what I got up to!!!! We
just had so much fun, learnt so much or achieved so much!
The star of the show for me however had to be Euan. The consummate professional
at all times, a sensitivity in knowing who needed what when, forever encouraging
and supportive and a wonderful sense of humour. While we learnt to change
gears, feed abseil ropes and build 1* shelters - he in turn learnt about dry
leg oil and face creams!!!!!! He didn't seem to mind his group being called "Euan's
darlings!" An experience never to be forgotten! Thankyou.
Fiona Horbye - Scotland
“If ever you want to attend a course that actually makes you lose weight, get fitter or both, this is The Camp for you. The Camp is set in stunning surroundings, has a chef that makes delicious and outstanding meals and a team of instructors and organizers that are professional to the fingertips but also have the social capacity; a great combination that makes them unique in a setting like this.
I thought I had an idea of what to expect when arriving on a Saturday afternoon, 45 years old and mother of three , but no, I could not have anticipated this. Remember, they do guarantee you 1 size down in a week, so be prepared that this is not going to be a walk in the park. But the brilliant thing about it all is that no matter your fitness status (I do recommend that you exercise once a week) you can attend this Camp as you will be divided into different groups according to your fitness level.
It has been challenging both physically and mentally, you are on the go from 06-20. The thing is that your body don’t get sore, which you would expect, but should you get some aches and pains, then Billy is there for you. They have organized the schedule so cleverly that you use your body in a different way the whole day – and the best of it all is that you don’t know what you are going to do until the previous lesson is over. I must admit there were moments I hoped that “Scotty would beam me up – and away”, but after a strenuous session you feel sooo good. I’d like to thank all and every one at the Camp for making this a week I’ll never forget, and a lot of knowledge to bring with me back home to Norway.
Thanks to Pauline for all your positive mails – you boost of vitality and positivity. To Helen for looking after us and who gives the best and most effective massage ever- highly recommended. Billy, the most popular person in the Camp – and you will understand why when you attend the course. Allan, the Chef and Culinary Master. His meals where the highlights of the camp – I really miss his soups. Sam, The Organizer, lots of hard work lies behind a Camp this efficient and well organized. The original will always be: The Original. Karl, the Head Instructor with endless energy and a great storyteller. Graeme, the lover of Norwegian clothing, the Head biker and with lots and lots of humor. . Euan, his voice can be heard through the woods, encouraging and the man with the best survival kit. Seb, the man with the voice and info – love your car.
Thanks to the Pink Ladies and the Team Paramount. I will definitely go back next year, would love to go to Spain.”
Pia Cernic - Bergen Norway
"Dear Superhumans
Just a quick thank you email to all of you now I’ve managed to settle back to planet Louise London.
Words cannot even begin to relate the experience and emotions of The Camp last week…absolutely every part of every day was overwhelming and completely inspiring at the same time…who would of thought a bunch of women could actually keep going and rising to the challenges you set (with a minimal amount of whining!).
So a huge thank you to each of you for an amazing holiday/experience - needless to say my team are currently being “encouraged” to start running with me at lunchtime and we’re negotiating an hour shut down of the practice so we can all share a meal together (not obviously as amazing as Allan’s food but as nutritious as we can make it – my design assistant Dru has taken on this challenge and she’ll be checking out the website for all the hints and tips you’ve offered on eating and nutrition ((minus muesli bars or seeds)).
Hopefully, we’ll be the fittest Arch’s in London town this time next year as I already have everyone’s commitment to ride the London to Brighton next June!
Just about to sign up for the advanced course next year myself and expect a few of my girlfriends to be rolling through over the next year.
Love
Louise
xxx"
Louise McDonnell - London
"It's now less than a month before my wedding, and two weeks since I left The Camp. I was amazed to have lost 8lbs in my week at The Camp - and 3 inches off my hips, and 2.5 inches off my waist! - and even more amazed that I have continued to lose another 5-6 lbs in the weeks after. I am so afraid of my wedding dress alterations lady right now!! She is going to KILL ME, as she said specifically "just don't lose any weight before the wedding". Oops. I am going to claim a catastrophic illness or something. I guess it's not a bad beating to take however ..."
Danika Kauneckis - London
I didn’t get the opportunity to thank you properly for a splendid week, beautifully organised & with great panache. I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed myself. It was so different from anything I normally do but that was the great thing about it. You are right to be proud of your concept & achievement. I can see how much hard work went into planning ‘The Camp’ & it has paid dividends. I don’t need to tell you to beware of imitators but in this case I believe the original will be the best! I wish you every success with the future, not that you will need it!
Lis McEwan, Manchester
I wanted to attend the programme because it’s my thing (exercising all day sounds like heaven to me), and really didn’t think that I would lose much weight. My body has changed completely – 5lbs lost, 5cms off my waist & 5cm off my hips! I am seriously fit and teach high impact classes 5xs a week. So, even if you don’t think you have much to lose, you will tone up and shape up. And also the differentiation in ‘The Camp’ is amazing – I felt challenged, despite my fitness (I don’t mean to sound big headed there – but there will be other fit people who would think, will I get anything out of The Camp?).
‘The Camp’ is so much more than a weight loss week – it helps people have the space to make decisions, evaluate their current lives etc and the friendships that are built up are so strong.
Liz Melrose, London
All of the instructors were extremely professional and they have made me feel very comfortable. I also found the programme & instructors flexible to our needs. A fantastic experience, as well as a challenge!
Lisa Brady, Kent
Thanks to all of you for making ‘The Camp’ one of the best experiences I have ever had. I loved the mix of physical activities with the team building ones – what a great way to exercise. I have lots of great memories to take away with me & many things to continue with at home.
Sally Houghton , London
I wanted to say a huge thank-you for my week at ‘The Camp!’ Obviously I naturally had my doubts but I have been blown away by the experience! Apart from the obvious benefits (a trimmer waist line!) I left feeling totally re. energised with lots more gumption! The success of the week goes to you guys – your continual support, positivity & belief which was invaluable to our success. You made us feel so safe which allowed us to come out of our comfort zone & made us feel we had accomplished something, besides just weight loss.
The negatives of the week….how will I go back to my 9-6 office job? Will I stop dreaming of you guys saving us in fast flowing rivers….?! I really look forward to the advanced course & allowing you guys to push me out of my zone and realising you can achieve lots with the right attitude!
Abbie Griesman, London
Fantastic week - I really enjoyed it. The staff, structure & fellow campers have all been brilliant. All the staff were exceptional. The instruction was great as was all the varied activities. I am SO pleased as I lost 9lbs - 1 1/2'' off my waist & 1 1/2 off my hips. I was expecting to only lose 3lbs or so as I did not have much to lose. I am quite fit so it was very unexpected. I am SO impressed with the whole week - thank you all so much.
Caroline Syson, St Albans
All of the team were great - very motivational & enthusiastic. They made each session bearable and were very positive & patient in their approach towards all of us, especially the weaker members of the team.The regime, the people & the venue were all fantastic. Now I have been weighed in the whole effort has been so worthwhile - I lost 9lbs and 8 1/2 inches in total - woohoo!
Lisa-Marie Smith, Loughton, Essex
I had a fantastic time with all the challenges and achievements. The course, instructors, food, activities, organisation and safety were all excellent and I cannot see where there is room for improvement. It is a great thing to do to kick start a fitness/life changing programme. It was tough in parts for me, but this makes the achievement all the more greater - thanks a million!
Louise Morrisy, Paris, France
An awesome week - the guys were all great and provided the required motivation when needed. The food was superb & I enjoyed all the lessons - a great week with a 9.5lbs weight loss. I have booked again for March 2008! Thank you!
Amy Gough, Crowthorne, Berkshire
I lost 6lbs exactly - I am very pleased - thanks to The Camp staff & group encouragement. The boys were great - encouraging without being patronising or making you feel as if you were rubbish! If the PT instructors lived near to me I would want them to be my personal trainers! I'd never considered a personal trainer before, but I might do now.....mind you they'd have high standards to live up to. I left on a real high.
Liz Greenwood, Southhampton
I can't believe how slick & well organised everything was. I didn't know what to expect but it surpassed everything I could have hoped for - the impressive skills of Alan, the infectious enthusiasm of Karl, the experience & cool headedness of Matt, Billy for being such a great guy and Sam's calm professionalism - all top notch! This is the best thing I have ever done!
Elizabeth McEwan, Manchester
I thought the whole course was very well run, good value for money & extremely enjoyable, despite being hard at times. Matt was very encouraging and the whole course put me slightly outside my comfort zone which was great - 2 inches off my waist - gotta be happy with that! Amazing results - really pleased, so thanks everyone for all your hard work in helping me to achieve this.
Liz Carrington, Fulham, London
'I loved every minute of it , hard work but well worth it. I am a 'fitness junkie' and have attended weekly courses like this all over the States & Europe. The Camp beats all the others hands down & is hugely professional! The instructors were great and it was wonderful to be with people who know what they were doing. If I was younger I'd join the army, if only for the eye candy!
Maggie Rowell - Client & a member of British Military Fitness
Does
it work?
Absolutely. I lost 7lbs and went from
a size 12 to a size 10. More importantly,
my body feels more toned than it ever has
- even my consistently flabby arms became
more defined. I feel more confident in a bikini
than I probably have all my life, and all
my clothes seem a size too big. I'm seriously
impressed, and the entire group was keen to
rebook for next year.
Vishaka Reed - Easy Living
I wanted to thank my fellow campers and the superb instructors for all their support and encouragement during my week at The Camp. I had an incredible experience despite some really tough challenges but everyone there helped me to make it through to the next task. I really felt that I pushed myself to the limit during the week but it has made me more determined to do more and so what if my leg muscles hurt a bit - all of us had sore muscles for days and it didn't stop us! I have now lost 8lbs and feel great, my Mother In Law says that I haven't stopped glowing since I came back. Thanks again to everyone, I will recommend it to all my friends and hope to see you next time as I will definitely be back.
Nikki Welsh
'I've lost 7lbs,
taking me to 11st 5lbs, and have gone from a
size 16 to a 14. I've lost 5cm from my waist
and 4cm from each thigh. Between us we've shed
6st - what a result!
The Camp was my toughest physical challenge
ever, but it works. A week on, I've dropped
a further 2lbs and my skin looks amazing.'
Stephanie Clarkson - Closer Magazine
I have just returned
from the April course and all ten girls on
the course had a fantastic week ...truly exhausting
but so worthwhile. We all lost between 4 and
8 lbs and came away fitter and leaner; I lost
6cms from my waist. It was non stop activity
led by the most professional ex soldiers.
We abseiled, did river crossings and were
kept in our fat burning zones throughout the
week.
All the girls were there independently and
gelled so well as a group. Helen ensured
we were fed, we had 1500 calories a day,
but burnt off about 5000 a day ....so it
was very effective!
We would all do it again! SO thanks for the
feature it has truly changed my whole outlook
to exercise and food”
Lena Jones
Having
heard about The Camp on LBC Radio Lena Jones sent
the following email to them.
“After listening to Helen Oades on your show the clinical nutritionist
for The Camp based in Dumfries. I went on the web site booked a place.
I'm
not quite sure what Vulcan mind tricks the
guys employed, but something has definitely changed ever since I got back.
I arrived back in London late Saturday afternoon. Rather
than doing the much necessary washing of
sports kit, I left the house again, headed to the
next shop and into the changing room with
a size 12 pair of jeans. I could, and still really can't, believe that they
truly fit. Needless to say I bought them! After the shopping
trip I raided the local health food shop
for all things seeds and fibres. Dinner consisted
of Andy's pea and mint soup (of course sprinkled
with pumpkin seeds) and oat crackers while the washing was finally being done.
Early Sunday morning I found myself not only going
for a jog through St James Park but actually
stopping at every park bench to do crunchies, sit ups, push ups - and even
dreaded star jumps! Since then, I have joined BritMilFit,
started doing weights at the gym and squeezed
in a 10K hike and a 20K bike ride. No wonder it feels much longer than just
5 days since the end of The Camp. It has certainly made
a huge difference to me and I am hoping the
good habits I picked up will long continue. I will certainly be back for a
refresher next year!
Ulrike Till
‘I wanted to write to thank you all very much indeed for the opportunity to be a part of ‘The Camp’ last week. As you are all aware I thoroughly enjoyed myself and have reaped the benefits of the exercise regime, dietary advice and fitness plan with a fantastic weight loss of 7.5lbs! It appears that I have renewed energy and my cupboards are now full of low fat protein and fibre, much to the disgust of my ever-suffering husband! I would recommend this to anyone I know who wants a quick fix and a life changing experience!’
Pauline Drysdale
Just thought that I would drop you a quick note to say a massive thank you for last week's camp. It was an amazing experience, probably life changing in a lot of ways and has certainly given me a boost in confidence to go out into the world and do "mad" things in the future!
Just for your information, I thought you would like to know that the losses in my final measurements over the week were as follows: Bust 1" loss, Underbust (Ribcage) 1.5", Waist 1.5", Hips 1", Thigh and Upper Arm 0.5" each.
I am amazed!! and also feel so much more toned – all in a week, its incredible!
Please pass on my thanks to Scottie and Matt who were both marvelous, so supporting and encouraging and I'm sure I wouldn't have achieved half what I did without them giving that little push every now and again.
I wish you massive success with The Camp and would most definitely consider doing it again sometime. (and am recommending you like mad to everyone I know!)
All the very best and thanks once again
Linda Gregory