Fitness from weightlifting exercises 

Who likes strength training classes? 

Strength training is for people ages 18 and older who are looking to improve their overall muscle tone and muscle growth, as well as to familiarize themselves with traditional weightlifting exercises. This class is geared more toward people who have more of an intermediate to advanced fitness level, but beginners are also welcome. The instructor can provide modifications for every exercise, using less weight to help you get started; we all have to start somewhere. If you are a novice lifter and need help perfecting your form or how to adjust the various weight machines to be suitable for you, this class is also for you! 

What is a strength training class? 

Strength training is a class that coaches you on the proper form for traditional weight training exercises so you can lift weights in a safe and injury-free manner. This is the only class that uses free weights (dumbbells, kettlebells, barbells, body bars, weight plates), various equipment (large and small resistance bands, weight benches, EZ curl bars), cable machines to perform various exercises (seated rows, cable curls, chest flys), and adjustable weight machines (glute kickback machine, leg extension, leg press, etc.). 

When the class meets, the instructor runs through a quick warmup for about five minutes before they lead participants through various strength training exercises. Sometimes the lifts are timed rounds with set times for each exercise, or the instructor counts repetitions for each lift. After the instructor rotates through many different lifts and engages all muscle groups, the instructor then leads several minutes of cool down exercises to help participants relax and recover. 

Every class incorporates weightlifting exercises to benefit each major muscle group: deltoid (shoulder), trapezius, biceps and triceps, upper and lower back, chest, quadriceps, calves, hamstrings, glute muscles and core/abdominal muscles.  

Background music helps motivate and energize class members, but the class is not choreographed to the beat.  

When and where does the strength training class meet? 

The weight training class meets twice a week for 50 minutes in the weight room where there are free weights and machine weights for a variety of safe lifting exercises. Bring water and a towel to keep you dry. You may want to take advantage of the towel service that is a perk for our fitness and wellness center members. 

Why do strength training? 

Benefits of the strength training class include improvements to overall muscle tone, muscle growth and posture as you strengthen certain muscle groups. Class participants learn proper form for weightlifting. Members also gain knowledge about how to properly use various types of fitness equipment in a weight room. 

Muscle growth, clinically known as hypertrophy, happens when your body’s muscle fibers thicken and muscle volume physically increases. This corrects muscle weakness and improves your muscle definition and strength as long as you continue the fitness strengthening exercises.  

Strength training is classified as a resistance exercise, rather than an aerobic exercise. Resistance training also causes your body to release endorphins, which help class members have positive thoughts and feelings in addition to the physical benefits. This is why members often report increased feelings of well-being and confidence to go along with improvements to their personal body image.