A strong man wrestles you to the ground to show off; a stronger man boosts your self-esteem and then accidentally breaks three of your ribs with a supportive hug. Learn the tenets of both strength and community with today's Groupon: for $40, you get six boot-camp classes at Franklin Boot Camp (a $90 value).

Launched by 2007 Ms. Bikini Universe Kim Whittaker, Franklin Boot Camp pumps up participants with a varied regimen of indoor and outdoor cardio exercises and resistance routines. In their quests for improved conditioning and muscle tone, boot campers will participate in adrenaline-fueled exercises ranging from obstacle courses and stair runs to intense yoga pose-offs against retired Madonna backup dancers.

With classes offered six days a week, times are available for students of all needs and current states of in-shape, from weekend warriors and stay-at-home moms to a tired-of-being-typecast Humpty Dumpty.

Designed with a safe and positive environment in mind, classes help students shed pounds within a serious but supportive environment that is supervised but self-paced. To prepare for classes, students should arrive with a towel, bottled water, an exercise mat, and appropriate footwear and outerwear, as courses may take place inside, outside, or in outer space.