‘GET BIG’ is the motto for weight training, an after school activity open to all seventh and eighth graders. Weight Training is held after school on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and lasts only about a half hour. Mr. Kiviranta, language arts teacher, is in charge of weight training. In the past, weight training was only open to seventh graders, but Kiviranta wanted all students to have this opportunity. Both boys and girls are allowed to come as well. Maggie Peterson, 8, said, “Weight Training is a way for me to stay in shape for the sports that I do.”
Weight training, this year, is all eighth graders, which include: Matthew Dean, Max Dearing, Lizzy Forest, Anthony Marinella, James McMillon, Breanna Meissner, Maggie Peterson, Daryesse Pond, Steven Rose, Baileigh Shannon, Wyatt Waskowiak, Alexander Williams, Laird Williams, and Preston Woodall. In weight training, students can choose from a variety of machines to work with, anything from an upper body work- out, to a work out for the legs. All middle schools are privileged enough to have a weight room. Alex Williams, 8 has definitely taken advantage of it. “It helps me achieve a level of wellness,” said Williams.
Some say weight training is not only a great way to get fit, but it’s also a way to have fun with friends and socialize. Music plays in the background as well so people can also enjoy that.
Kiviranta believes it’s a really good habit to get into. He started out being involved in his middle school’s weight training program when he was around 14 years old. “It’s very good to start at this age because it sets a pattern for the rest of your life,” Kiviranta said.