Uniting elite level training with the highest standards of hospitality is 1st Class Bootcamp. The ultimate health and fitness retreat, each bootcamp offers the perfect escape to focus on becoming the best version of yourself, physically and mentally. An all-inclusive fitness break and life-changing kickstart; whether you are an athlete at the top of your game or a total beginner to exercise – each cater to personal needs, regardless of ability, shape or size.
Revolutionising the bootcamp experience with luxurious locations from Kent to Sotogrande in Spain, 1st Class have quickly become the most in demand bootcamp popular with celebrities and CEOs alike. Championing people across the country to prioritise their health, and invest in themselves, a team of experts in fitness, hospitality and food are dedicated to creating the best health, fitness and wellbeing experiences possible.
The mastermind behind 1st Class Bootcamp is bootcamp king and founder Tom Brown. An in-demand trainer to the celebs, CEOs and athletes, Tom’s warmth, fun energy, and exceptional attention to detail has navigated him through over 10,000 clients. Levelling up the bootcamp experience from years of managing others, Tom offers his clients 24/7 support and is dedicated to passing on his expertise to transform lives, bootcamp and beyond. I checked in with Tom to find out about how he stays one step ahead, their stunning locations, and his proudest moments.
You position 1st Class Bootcamp as the UK’s premier health and fitness offering. Can you expand on how you execute this to ensure you stay at the forefront of the industry?
At 1st Class Bootcamp, we are committed to leading the fitness industry by providing exceptional, personalised bootcamp experiences. Our programs blend cutting-edge fitness techniques, expert trainers, goal-oriented nutrition designed by professional chefs, and luxurious accommodation in stunning locations.
What truly sets us apart is our dedication to continuous improvement, our programs evolve based on the latest research and client feedback, ensuring we consistently exceed the highest standards. From the moment clients arrive to the moment they leave, every staff member is fully dedicated to their success. Our passion for helping people is unmistakable, creating an environment of contagious positivity and motivation.
The youngest Les Mills BodyPump instructor in the world is an impressive achievement! How did this background in fitness lead you to establishing 1st Class Bootcamp?
My fitness journey began when I became the youngest-ever Les Mills BodyPump instructor, which immersed me in a variety of fitness methodologies and client needs. This early experience gave me a deep understanding of group fitness, personal training, and the importance of continuous self- development. I was drawn to the dynamic energy of group exercise, where the motivation of working out together and tailoring a class to suit different fitness levels inspired me to expand my expertise in this area.
After working with several fitness retreats, I discovered the profound impact of spending more time with clients (beyond just one class a week) by helping them for up to five hours a day over the course of a week, creating real, lasting change. This realisation led me to establish 1st Class Bootcamp, where my focus is on wellbeing, blending training, nutrition, and a personalised, supportive approach to create transformative fitness experiences.
You have a stunning portfolio of locations. How do these backdrops support your clients to become the best version of themselves?
The luxury of our hand-picked locations is no accident, they’re meticulously selected after extensive research to elevate the entire bootcamp experience. These breathtaking environments inspire motivation, reduce stress, and foster a positive mindset, all of which play a key role in your success and personal growth.
Our bootcamp programme is designed to challenge, and we prove to every client just how strong and capable they truly are. The carefully chosen accommodations support this challenge, offering a peaceful retreat that feels like a luxurious home away from home. It’s well-established that the spaces where you relax, sleep, and dine significantly impact stress levels, mindset, and overall growth, which is why we make this a top priority at 1st Class Bootcamp. It’s more than just a workout; it’s a rejuvenating escape that leaves you feeling stronger – both inside and out.
1st Class Bootcamp is rewriting the rules of a military style ‘bootcamp’ to ‘bring clients up, not break them down’. Why do you think this is important?
Resilience is at the heart of everything we do. Instead of focusing on punishment, we emphasise support, encouragement, and personal growth. We empower clients by showing them what they’re truly capable of – giving them the tools to not just survive, but to thrive. Our mission is to build people up and help them cultivate a lasting, positive relationship with fitness and well-being. By focusing on mental resilience and physical strength, our clients leave with more than just great results – they leave with a renewed sense of self-confidence and a belief in their own potential.
Can you tell me what do you love the most about hosting your bootcamps and why?
What I love most about hosting our bootcamps is witnessing the incredible transformations of clients from all walks of life. From physical improvements to a boost in self-esteem, the growth of a positive, resilient mindset is beyond rewarding. Watching someone realise they’re capable of more than they ever thought possible is truly special. The sense of community we build, and the shared accomplishments are the highlights of every bootcamp.
Nutrition education is a huge part of each experience. How is this such an integral element?
At 1st Class Bootcamp, we recognise that nutrition is a vital component of our programme. Our talented chefs prepare delicious, nutrient-dense meals that cater to a variety of dietary preferences, ensuring clients receive the essential fuel they need to maximise their results and performance.
Many people find themselves stuck in a rut with their eating habits, often resorting to convenient options or sticking with what they know. Here at 1st Class Bootcamp, our clients enjoy the luxury of not having to think about each meal; they can savour a diverse array of delicious and varied foods that they may not typically experience. Plus, the added benefit of not having to do the dishes is always a welcome relief!
Throughout their stay, clients have the opportunity to detox from common indulgences such as gluten, dairy, and sugar, allowing their bodies to cleanse, renew, and reset. Our thoughtfully curated, balanced menu is designed to demonstrate that healthy eating can be both enjoyable and satisfying, rather than a chore. In fact, many clients find that they feel fuller at camp than they do at home, thanks to the high nutritional value of each meal and snack, in contrast to the typically processed diets they are accustomed to.
You tell your clients that ‘you can work out for one hour a day, but it’s the other 23 that count’. Can you expand on this, and how Bootcamp can support with people’s attitudes to self-care?
Our philosophy is simple: “You can work out for one hour a day, but it’s the other 23 that truly count.” At 1st Class Bootcamp, we help clients integrate healthy habits into their daily routines, touching every part of their lives – nutrition, sleep, daily movement, and stress management. We aim for long-term wellness, not a quick fix. By showing clients how to apply resilience and dedication beyond the gym, we empower them to take control of their lives. The one hour of exercise a day if often the easier bit!
What are you, your co-founder Sophie and the wider team at 1st Class Bootcamp doing that is innovating the industry? Can you share anything exciting you have lined up?
At 1st Class Bootcamp, our team, including co-founder Sophie, is dedicated to innovation, continuously introducing the latest fitness trends, technology, and wellness practices to enhance our clients’ experiences. Sophie’s personal journey of undergoing an intensive weight loss and mindset transformation allows her to connect deeply with our clients who are in a similar position. This unique insight enables us to develop effective, additional elements that foster long-lasting results.
We are always on the lookout for new ways to enrich our clients’ experiences and expand our offerings. With exciting developments on the horizon, including the exploration of new locations, we’re poised to elevate 1st Class Bootcamp to new heights, ensuring that our clients receive an unparalleled journey toward wellness and fitness.
Everything at 1st Class Bootcamp is tailored with bespoke plans, can you tell us how your team does this?
At 1st Class Bootcamp, we understand that every client is unique, which is why we adapt our program to meet individual needs. Upon arrival, each client undergoes a comprehensive one-on-one consultation with our expert team, who then crafts a customised program tailored to their fitness levels, goals, and personal preferences. This personalised approach not only enhances results but also creates a more engaging and relevant experience for each participant.
To ensure this high level of individualised care, we limit the number of clients in each camp to just 16, with groups ranging from 12 to 16 participants. This small cohort size allows us to provide focused attention and meticulous detail, ensuring that every client receives the support they need to thrive.
You’ve trained athletes and celebrities along with hosting bootcamps in the most stunning locations. But what’s your proudest moment to date?
My proudest moments are seeing clients transform their lives through 1st Class Bootcamp. Whether it’s overcoming personal challenges, reaching a fitness goal, or developing resilience, every success story reflects the impact we strive to make. To witness clients leave feeling stronger, more confident, and equipped to take on life is the true reward.
Factbox
Phone: 07717169915
Website: 1stclassbootcamp.com