Three teenagers in Camp Cardio spoke with Body & Soul about the exercise part of the programme. Sharmila Harris, Kayla Christopher and Zaria Dill agreed their initial focus was to get in shape rather than lose weight however the fact that the pounds have come off has motivated them to stick with the programme to see further health benefits.

Sharmila Harris

Age: 13.

School: Whitney Institute Middle School, however she is to attend Berkeley Institute in September.

Reason for joining: To lose weight and learn how to eat more healthily.

Favourite part: Weighing in and seeing that I lost weight.

Least favourite part: I don't hate any part of the camp or exercise but when my muscles are hurting and I have to exercise, that's the least favourite part for me.

Favourite exercise: Working out on the steps.

Length of time in camp: Two weeks.

Weight loss: Four pounds.

Kayla Christopher

Age: 15

School: Berkeley Institute

Reason for joining: I am overweight and want to get into better shape.

Favourite part: The cardio workouts are more comfortable for me. I am able to do them easily and not be out of breath.

Least favourite part: Running up the hill is my least favourite part because I become out of breath by the time I reach the top and I'm very tired.

Length of time in camp: Three weeks

Weight loss: Eight pounds

Zaria Dill

Age: 13

School: Whitney Institute Middle School however she is to attend Berkeley Institute in September

Reason for joining: To tone my muscles and lose some weight in my legs.

Favourite part: Weighing in on a Monday morning and seeing how much weight I've lost.

Least favourite part: Running up the steps. I have to do it so many times that it hurts and I'm tired.

Length of time in camp: Two weeks

Weight loss: Three-and-a-half pounds