Hello everyone, I would like to introduce our weightlifting club president, Bat Galvan-Mora, who has been lifting for 4 years. Our vice presidents, Blankenship and Bagley, are responsible for managing the club’s finances and have a background in accounting. Our officer, Arturo Perez, is responsible for coordinating workouts. They’ll work to ensure that our club is a supportive and motivating environment for all members to achieve their fitness goals.
Who is the target audience for the weightlifting club?
Bat Galvan-Mora: Our weightlifting club is open to everyone, regardless of age, gender, or fitness level. We welcome beginners who are new to weightlifting as well as experienced lifters looking to improve their skills. Our goal is to create an inclusive environment where anyone can feel comfortable and supported in their fitness journey.
What are the goals of the weightlifting club?
Bat: The primary goals of our weightlifting club are to promote physical fitness, educate members on proper lifting techniques, and foster a sense of community. We aim to help members achieve their personal fitness goals, whether that’s building strength, improving athletic performance, or simply staying active and healthy.
Why should someone join a weightlifting club?
Bat: Joining a weightlifting club offers numerous benefits. Members gain access to expert coaching, personalized training programs, and a supportive community of like-minded individuals. It’s a great way to stay motivated, learn new skills, and make new friends. Plus, weightlifting has many health benefits, including increased muscle mass, improved bone density, and enhanced overall fitness.
What equipment is necessary for participation in the weightlifting club?
Bat: For participation in the weightlifting club, basic equipment includes barbells, weight plates, dumbbells, and kettlebells. Additionally, we have squat racks, benches, and lifting platforms. Members are encouraged to bring their own lifting belts, gloves, and shoes if they prefer, but we also provide some of these items for those who need them.
What types of training programs are offered by the weightlifting club?
Bat: Our weightlifting club offers a variety of training programs to suit different goals. We have a focus on foundational techniques and safety, introductions to more complex lifts and routines, and open space for our competitive lifters.
How does the weightlifting club foster community among its members?
Bat: We foster community among our members through regular meet days, group warm-ups, and friendly competitions. We encourage members to support and motivate each other, both in and out of the gym.
An old acquaintance of mine sparked my interest in weightlifting. When I was a sophomore, I would frequently pass the weightlifting promotion posters in the corridors until he introduced me to the club, which is when I discovered my love for lifting weights. My area of expertise is deadlifting, which is my favorite activity and the first thing I ever learned. I will never let it go. To reach my deadlifting PR of 255 conventional deadlifts, I would gradually increase my weight by lifting something I’m accustomed to, such as 185 or 205 Conv deadlift, and simply working out my legs along with other exercises that support and maintain the muscle. Even if it was light, I would keep doing it because it would help my body adjust to it. I was lifting weights to reduce my body weight. At the start of my junior year, I weighed 210 pounds, so I finally decided to continue focusing on what I enjoy most: finding a new diet and being committed to my journey of lifting weights and improving my own body in terms of muscle growth. I’ve always had trouble with binge eating, but after a lot of discipline and perseverance, I was able to drop 47 pounds in total—from 210.6 to 163.3 pounds. I still intend to drop a little bit more weight for my fitness adventure; I’m almost at my 150-pound target, but lifting weights helped me figure out how to improve my diet and muscle growth so that I could reduce that much weight in just a year and three months in the healthiest way possible.
Weightlifting can be a truly empowering journey for both women and men, but there are some differences that make each experience unique. For women, weightlifting often comes with the challenge of overcoming societal stereotypes and misconceptions about strength and femininity. Women may face doubts about becoming “too bulky” or not fitting traditional beauty standards. However, embracing weightlifting can be incredibly liberating, allowing women to redefine their own standards of beauty and strength. Physiologically, women typically have a higher percentage of body fat and less muscle mass compared to men, which can influence how they approach training and their progress. Women might need to focus more on building muscle mass and strength while also considering factors like hormonal fluctuations that can affect energy levels and recovery. But beyond the physical differences, weightlifting for women can be a powerful statement of self-confidence and resilience. It’s about breaking barriers, pushing limits, and discovering just how strong and capable you truly are. Each lift, each rep, is a testament to your dedication and perseverance. So, embrace the journey, celebrate your progress, and let weightlifting be a source of empowerment and inspiration in your life.
Lastly, to start with the strongest man, me/Arturo Perez, the reporter leader and officer of the weightlifting club. I’m very passionate about the club, staying active, and gaining and losing weight. I’m addicted to working out since I’m a major gym rat/night owl. Currently, I go to Planet Fitness. (I pay $15 a month.)
Here’s my Q&A about my passion for heavy weights:
What is your primary motivation for weightlifting?
Arturo Perez: Cutting and strength.
How often do you train each week?
Arturo: 5 times a week for about 4-5 hours each session.
What are your favorite exercises or lifts?
Arturo: Bench lifting.
How do you manage soreness after training?
Arturo: I sleep it off.
Do you follow a specific diet or nutrition plan? If so, what does it entail?
Arturo: I’m mostly a chicken and rice guy at home.
What role does technique play in your lifting routine?
Arturo: In bench lifts, I always set up my bench and bar to my liking.
Have you ever competed in weightlifting competitions? If yes, how was the experience?
Arturo: N/A, no experience in that.
How do you stay motivated during tough training sessions?
Arturo: Just techno phonk music and negative reinforcements.
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in weightlifting?
Arturo: Start slow and then advance gradually.
How do you balance weightlifting with other aspects of your life (work, family, etc.)?
Arturo: It helps with work and carrying basic heavy objects.
