In recent years, not only North Atlanta athletes but also students have been getting into the gym, with many taking up weightlifting for a few hours outside of school. Whether it’s for physical fitness or building healthier habits, more are making weight training a key part of their young lives. What started as a trending competition among football players during the offseason has spread to the general student body.
The football team has a special way of separating the big boys from the rest. One of the team’s proudest traditions off the field is the creation of weightlifting clubs based on how much the players can bench, squat, and powerclean. The club serves as a motivator for players to push themselves to their limits while also incorporating friendly competition amongst each other. Senior offensive lineman Carlos Hernandez, who is a part of the prestigious 1000 club in the Dubs football program, is one of many players who have embraced the challenge. “During the offseason, we can’t compete on the field against other teams, so we use that time to compete against each other in the weight room,” said Hernandez. “I feel like it is very beneficial for the team and the growth of our competitive nature.”
The football team isn’t the only ones that need work in the offseason, non athletes are taken to the gym to stay active and improve their fitness as well. For many students, the appeal of weightlifting goes beyond physical benefits. It has been about personal achievement and the mentality that comes with lifting over time. Senior Eric Contis, who may not wear the Dubs jersey, is getting his reps in. Contis loves the thrill of seeing his classmates at the YMCA where it feels like the gym is made for North Atlanta students. “Sometimes when I’m lifting weights alone, it’s easy to stop when it gets tough, but having a friend from school adds extra motivation and a competitive drive to reach new heights and accomplishments,” said Contis.
Athletes outside of football have also found weightlifting to be an essential part of their daily routine outside of their respective sports. In the North Atlanta weight training class, athletes as well as non-athletes come together to push themselves and each other, turning up the gym’s intensity. Soccer player Max Rode realized that the weight room was just as intense as a soccer game. “The competition is just as intense as in any game. I didn’t expect that level, but it has pushed me to be stronger and more disciplined,” said Rode.
As weightlifting continues to grow, it’s clear that the gym has become a place where both athletes and non-athletes can push their limits. Whether for personal achievement or friendly competition, North Atlanta students are embracing the weight room as a key part of their daily lives.
