REVIEW - I tried a miltary work out in Taunton and survived

Emrys Development, part of Emrys Group Ltd, runs intensive 'military-inspired' boot camps led by ex-forces trainers.

The group held a free taster session at French Weir Park, Taunton, from 10am to 11.30am on Sunday, February 8, run by instructor Martin Onoyiweta, who served in the forces for more than 20 years.

Admittedly, attempting to do pushups in the mud first thing in the morning is not how I would typically choose to spend my Sundays, but I like to think I am the type of person who tries everything at least once, even a military boot camp.

The description of the event says it will put your 'physical and mental limits to the test' and I can very much confirm that it achieved that goal (I was very sore the following day).

Yet, despite the tough drills and tough-love approach, it felt welcoming — and I was encouraged throughout.

Everyone who turned up was at a different fitness level, and the session was tough without being 'one-size-fits-all'.

Despite my repeatedly asking Martin to explain how to do each exercise, he was very patient and encouraging, and I felt very supported by him, and the group backed me up, too.

Throughout the session, we did a mix of circuit training and teamwork exercises. Specifically, bear crawls, med ball slams, burpee hurdles, military press, load carry, stretcher carry, pushups, and more.

I can't sugarcoat it; it was brutal, and at times, I truly just wanted to face plant in the mud and accept my fate, but I did not, thanks to the instructor and the rest of the group.

However, afterwards, I was proud to have got through it — and surprised by how much I could do.

If you want a tough workout with a patient but no-nonsense instructor in a welcoming group, Emrys Development is worth a look.