Northern Bedford County High School Unveils New Weight Room

Students engaged in workouts in the state-of-the-art weight room at Northern Bedford County High School.

News Summary

Northern Bedford County High School has launched a new weight room valued at $1 million, enhancing student wellness and athletic performance. Funded partially by the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund, this facility marks a significant upgrade from the previous weight room, featuring advanced equipment for all students, not just athletes. The new setup encourages greater participation in fitness programs, including dedicated resources for improving women’s athletics, backed by community support and collaboration.

Northern Bedford County, PA – Northern Bedford County High School has unveiled a new weight room facility valued at $1 million, marking a significant investment in student wellness and athletic performance. This state-of-the-art facility was funded in part by the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund, aimed at addressing the educational impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Unlike the previous facility, which was restricted in capacity, the new weight room is designed to benefit all students, not just members of the football team.

The initiative for this new weight room was led by former athletic director Jeff Batzel, with collaborative support from various board members and community members, including Mike Cottle and Chris Sipes. Officially opened in November, the facility features cutting-edge equipment valued at $300,000, emphasizing a commitment to improving student fitness.

Previously, the high school’s weight room was severely limited in size and functionality, akin to a large walk-in closet. The old space contained only two squat racks and two benches, which severely restricted training capabilities. In stark contrast, the new facility is equipped with ten complete squat racks, an array of free weights, and specialized cardiovascular machines, including treadmills, stationary bikes, and ellipticals. This renovation creates a more efficient and accessible workout environment for all students.

Seniors such as Justice Suter remarked on the positive changes brought about by the new weight room. The increased availability of equipment has significantly improved students’ confidence and their workout capabilities. With no concerns about equipment shortages, they can engage in more effective training sessions. This facility also provides expanded opportunities beyond just weight training, with additional resources to promote overall physical health.

A notable feature of the new weight room is the inclusion of an artificial intelligence training system known as Volt. This system offers personalized workout plans for students, helping to guide them through their fitness routines and ensuring they maximize their training potential.

Access to the weight room is not limited to specific teams; it is available during physical education classes and throughout the school day, providing numerous opportunities for student engagement in physical fitness activities. Principal Shawn Cerully noted that the welcoming and less intimidating atmosphere of the new facility contributes to increased participation in fitness programs among students.

Furthermore, the facility is considered a crucial step toward enhancing women’s athletics at Northern Bedford County High School. The new weight room aims to not only improve girls’ involvement in sports but also support their performance in various athletic programs through dedicated strength training resources.

Coaches and school officials have expressed pride in the community’s support and investment in the school infrastructure, which has led to significant advancements in student wellness and athletic performance. This new facility serves as a testament to the commitment to fostering a strong, inclusive athletic culture within the school, ultimately benefiting the entire student body.