The most common questions from people considering a fitness camp abroad for the first time.
What level of fitness do I need for a fitness camp abroad?+
It completely depends on the camp. Some boot camps specifically cater for deconditioned beginners or people returning from injury — these are appropriate for people who have not trained consistently in months or years. CrossFit camps and performance camps typically assume a base level of fitness. Always read the stated fitness requirements, and if you are unsure, contact the operator directly before booking.
How many training sessions per day should I expect?+
Most fitness camps structure two to three training sessions per day: a morning session (typically the primary training block), a midday or afternoon secondary session (often complementary — yoga, swimming, mobility work), and sometimes an evening walk or light activity. Total training time typically runs three to five hours per day with recovery time built in between. This is significantly higher than typical home training volume and is why fitness camps produce accelerated results.
Will I lose weight during a fitness camp?+
A week of structured training combined with a calorie-managed food programme will typically produce 1–3kg of weight loss from fat alongside water weight reduction. More meaningfully, a week at camp establishes habits, calibrates your nutrition awareness, and produces measurable fitness improvement that continues to compound after you return home. Weight loss as the sole metric undervalues what the camp actually achieves.
Can I attend a fitness camp if I have an existing injury?+
Many camps can accommodate existing injuries with modification — and some therapeutic fitness camps are specifically designed around rehabilitation from injury. Disclose your injury clearly when booking and ask specifically what modifications are available. Some camps employ physiotherapists on-site; others partner with local sports injury clinics. Do not hide an injury to get into a camp that seems more appealing — the consequences are predictable.
What is the difference between a boot camp and a CrossFit retreat?+
A boot camp is a general-format high-volume training programme — typically circuits, cardio, and functional movements — that does not follow a specific methodology. A CrossFit retreat follows the CrossFit methodology: workouts programmed around benchmark WODs, Olympic lifting, gymnastics, and community competition. CrossFit retreats are most appropriate for people who already train CrossFit at home; boot camps are more accessible to those without a specific training background.
Is it better to do a fitness camp for one week or two?+
Two weeks is substantially better than one for measurable physical results — the first week covers adaptation; the second produces the progression. For weight loss specifically, two weeks at a caloric deficit with training produces compounding results that one week cannot. For CrossFit technique work or strength gains, the additional week allows the body to adapt to the movement patterns and begin actually improving rather than just surviving. Budget permitting, two weeks is the recommendation.
What time of year is best for a fitness camp in Europe?+
Tenerife and the Canary Islands offer year-round warmth and are particularly popular November through April for UK-based travellers. Portugal is excellent April through October. For those who prefer cooler temperatures for high-intensity training, spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) in mainland Portugal deliver ideal conditions without summer heat. The answer ultimately depends on your preference for training temperature — hotter conditions are more physiologically demanding for intensity work.
Does the camp provide all the equipment I need?+
Most fitness camps provide all training equipment — weights, kettlebells, barbells, resistance bands, CrossFit equipment, and outdoor circuits. If you are attending a cycling or triathlon performance camp, check whether bikes are provided or whether you need to bring or hire your own. Bring your own training shoes (gym shoes for camp, running shoes for trail work), a good sports kit, sunscreen, and any specific supplements you use regularly.
Year-round (best: April – October for outdoor training)
