Recently, Wright State University (WSU) introduced two new weightlifting programs in hopes more can receive the benefits of strength training.
Women on Weights (WOW) and Learn to Lift (L2L) look to shed light on the importance of strength training while also building gym confidence for all fitness levels.
“L2L provides all the tools and training necessary for someone to confidently create their own strength training schedule according to their specific goals,” said Kara Donbrock, the program manager of Fitness and Wellness at WSU. “WOW creates a safe place for women to meet and strength train together.”
WOW is led by Allyson Whittaker, a student and personal trainer at WSU. On top of creating a safe place for women, the program also looks to debunk the myths of the fitness industry and build community. It’s held Tuesdays and Thursdays, with one session in the evening and one in the afternoon on each day.
Blake Martin, a personal trainer and student at WSU, leads L2L in hopes to teach those new to the gym how to use exercise equipment safely and effectively.
Advice for Starting Weightlifting Programs
For campus rec professionals interested in offering similar weightlifting experiences in their facilities, Donbrock said it all starts with asking questions.
“My advice for other rec professionals wanting to start programs similar is to send a survey to their community asking questions regarding what days and times work best for them, lifting programs they would like to see at the facility, and topics they would like covered when learning to lift,” said Donbrock. “It is about creating an event that best suits the community’s schedules and needs.”
Even more than that, it’s creating a welcoming environment in something that can be quite scary for people to try. “It is also important to use positive, inviting language because lifting often intimidates people, understandably,” said Donbrock.
Image courtesy of WSU
