Video: Exercise, Fun Combine in Kids Mission Viejo Boot Camp

When kids attend the Mission Viejo fitess boot camp, they shouldn't expect a stone-faced drill sargeant.

Fitness coach Melisa Stoner is too laid back for that, she says. But she did just buy a whistle in case things get too chaotic.

Stoner has led the boot camp since October.

• The boot camp is offered every Monday and Wednesday from 3:45 to 4:30 p.m. at Montonoso Recreation Center, 25800 Montanoso Dr.
• The service is free to members and $4 per session for non-members.

The key, Stoner says, is keeping kids interested in the activities. On any given session, they may be running, jumping, crawling, sitting up, pushing up or throwing.

It's an attempt to combat obesity, a problem that's intensified by school spending cuts, smart phones and video games, she said.

"My kids get P.E. every other week," Stoner said. "It shouldn't be like that. Parents need to learn to scale back technology and get (their kids) moving a lot more."

Who does a fitness boot camp appeal to? Stoner says it's good for kids like hers who don't play team sports. It gives them an outlet for competition and active fun without the commitment of a season of sports.