They are treated like they are training to be part of the special forces team. So in a way, I guess, it would be like bootcamp but with challenges that are what the special forces team would do. The only way you leave is if you quit or you get hurt (or your body just can't do it any longer). I have watched the other seasons and it is pretty good. I have been very surprised at who has gone far and who has not.
No, I have seen older and not in shape on the show before. The first season they had Kate Gosselin and Dr. Drew. Another season they had Bob Saget's wife, Kelly Rizzo, was on and did really good.
I thought the same thing as soon as I saw it yesterday.