EHS weight room receives $72,000 upgrade
Students at Ephrata High School use the new pieces of fitness equipment. This is the first major renovation to the weight room since 2013.
COURTESY PHOTO/EPHRATA SCHOOL DISTRICT
EPHRATA – The Ephrata High School weight room has undergone transformation, thanks to a $72,000 grant from the Paul Lauzier Foundation. Sixteen brand-new fitness equipment have been installed, expanding the school's facilities and providing students with an enhanced workout experience.
The recent upgrade, which marks the first major renovation in approximately 12 years, includes four treadmills, two ellipticals, two spin bikes, two StairMasters and essential strength training machines, like a leg press, lat pull-down, leg/hamstring extension, power lungers and glute/hamstring machines.
These additions were acquired through BSN Sports and represent a commitment to student health, fitness and performance.
Rick Walter, EHS physical education and weights teacher, expressed his enthusiasm for the upgrade.
“This new equipment really expands what’s available for our kids,” Walter said. “The addition of cardio machines is especially important — it allows students recovering from injuries to stay active and participate in class in a safe, effective way.”
The upgraded weight room is expected to provide students and athletes with a wider variety of fitness opportunities.
"These upgrades will give students and athletes access to equipment they previously didn’t have, like treadmills and ellipticals," Walter said. "This expanded access supports more diverse workouts, helps with injury recovery, and allows more students to participate in ways that meet their individual needs."
In addition to promoting fitness, the new machines will aid in enhancing students’ athletic performance.
“Upgraded athletic equipment helps students perform better by allowing them to train more effectively, safely and consistently,” Walter said. “With access to modern machines, they can target specific muscle groups, improve strength and endurance, and engage in cross-training that supports overall fitness.”
Students have already begun to appreciate the new facilities, with many expressing excitement about trying out the various machines, according to Walter.
“Everything is being used and incorporated into daily routines," Walter said. "But many students are drawn to the treadmills and StairMasters after lifting."