From freshmen to seniors, members of sports teams to individuals pursuing their own weight lifting journeys, the space provides a crucial social environment for many, as well as a mental health outlet.
According to the National Institutes of Health, regular lifting and weight training has the power to severely reduce
depressive symptoms. They also note that over 16 percent of high school age teens suffer from symptoms of depression. This reason, along with others, is why ELHS’s weight room is a crucial space within the school. If a person struggles with talking about it, consider exercising through it.
Some may be scared to start, or not even know where to begin, but teacher and weight room monitor Mr. Place ensures that the weight room stays a positive environment where anyone can begin, or continue, their lifting journey. He is the full time weight room monitor and has expansive weightlifting knowledge. He is there to ensure student safety and answer questions.
The space may seem intimidating, but whether a person is lifting 10s or 50s, they are welcomed into the weight room. If you feel intimidated by the environment, it’s important to remember everyone is on their own weightlifting journey. What better place to start than somewhere free?
