The Fitness Club at Shadow Ridge High School is advised by Heather McEnaney (Ms. Mac). The club meets on Mondays and Tuesdays after school until 3:00pm in room 501, the weight room. Students of any level of experience are welcome to join. The club’s purpose is to create a welcoming environment where students are able to learn, practice, and share strategies for personal health and mental wellness through exercise. During meetings, students use the weight room as their own gym and are free to work independently or with others, choosing workouts that best fits their individual needs and goals. Through exercises, students develop valuable skills such as cooperation, determination, resilience, and perseverance.
Many students join Fitness Club to improve their health, stay active, and challenge themselves in a supportive environment. The club also offers a sense of community where members encourage each other and build friendships while working toward their personal fitness goals.
“I joined Fitness Club to improve my health, and it’s really a community where we all know each other,” Kaia David, freshman states. “I also love being here with friends and helping them.”
Although there isn’t a set schedule that students have to follow, many create their own routine to stay on track with their fitness goals. The club provides a variety of equipment, including weights, plyo boxes, jump ropes, cardio machines, yoga mats, giving students plenty of space and flexibility to design their own routines that fit their personal goals, whether it’s building strength, improving endurance, or training.
“My personal schedule is Mondays for arms and Tuesdays for legs,” Max Paik, freshman states.
All equipment is provided at Fitness Club, so members have everything they need for working out. However, many students like to bring their own items to make their workouts more enjoyable and effective. Personal items such as extra clothes, shoes, or a water bottle can help students stay prepared for their exercises. Some members even bring snacks or protein drinks to have energy for their workouts.
“I bring extra clothes to change into, extra shoes, and water,” David states. “Sometimes, if I’m feeling really fancy, I make myself a protein shake to drink later in the day. If you have longer hair, make sure to bring a hair tie.”
For students considering joining, Fitness Club may feel a bit overwhelming at first with the variety of equipment, different workout routines, and people at various fitness levels. It might be intimidating. However, the club supports and welcomes members of all skill levels and encourages them to work at their own pace while building confidence and strength.
“Don’t be afraid to join,” David states. “It might seem intimidating at first, with all the weights and people who may look strong, but trust me, it is truly a welcoming community here. Everyone is here to become a better version of themselves.”
Fitness Club is the perfect place for students looking to improve their physical and mental health, build resilience, and pursue their personal goals. With access to a variety of equipment, the freedom to create unique fitness routines, and a community that encourages growth and relationships, members are able to challenge themselves, gain confidence and become stronger both physically and mentally.
