This trimester, seventeen students in grades 7 and 8 elected to participate in Elite Fitness. This elective involves students completing a circuit training routine that incorporates several components of fitness including cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, muscular endurance and flexibility. Twice a week, this group arrives to the gym ready to work. Some students choose to work out by themselves, while others pair up or work in small groups.
Hand weights and resistance bands are used to help build muscular strength in the arms and legs while plank holds and wall sits cover muscular endurance. Running, jumping rope, stair climbing and running ladders are incorporated as cardiovascular endurance. Each week, a new fitness routine is introduced. In addition, students are required to run a mile, with the goal of increasing to 1.5-2.0 miles by the end of the trimester.
Fitness is work, yet studies show physical activity increases brain function and elevates both mood and self esteem. Interest in this elective continues to grow, as has the pride of our students who have made a personal commitment to their physical fitness.
