Lifting Weights – And Confidence

27 February 2023Emma W, Alexandra ‘23

Scrolling through the course catalogue of sports to choose from at Brentwood, one will find a multitude of choices, such as rowing, rock-climbing, or rugby.

For sports players in their off season, or students who are less athletically-inclined, it can be overwhelming looking through all these options. However, one self-paced, independent course that girls of any fitness level can take shines through: weight training.

Girls’ Weight Training takes place in the top-tier Foote Athletic Centre Strength and Conditioning Gym. For several hours each sports afternoon, the gym is open to girls only in this program so that it can be a safe space to learn. “Weight Training gives girls confidence in the gym, allows us to get comfortable lifting weights, and inspires a lifetime of fitness”, said Maxine P, Alexandra ‘23.

The program is advertised on the Brentwood website to produce well-rounded athletes that know their way around the gym, claiming students “are taught concepts of strength training including such principles as muscular endurance, strength and power, anaerobic vs aerobic fitness and program design”.

For many women, wanting to lift at the gym can be intimidating, since, historically speaking, weightlifting has been a male-dominated sport. However, Maddie B, Mackenzie ‘23, claimed that weight training made her “feel like a strong and powerful woman”. Evidently the environment that coaches Tanya Scheck and Tammie Ramsay have facilitated is a gym full of girls that are empowered to lift weights.

When asked about the program, coach Scheck stated, “Weight Training creates a space for everyone to feel comfortable while learning to lift with proper technique. It is a fun and encouraging environment for everyone to reach their personal fitness goals”.

The Girls’ Weight Training program is just another example of how Brentwood produces strong, empowered women who are not afraid to take up space. The confidence that many girls have found in the Brentwood S&C gym is sure to translate to other areas of their lives.

Emma W, Alexandra ‘23

Where Students Choose To Be