Weightlifting is an additional course taught by Mr. Alonso offered to juniors and seniors at Willow Glen High School to earn PE credits. The class gives students the opportunity to learn new skills in the weightroom, such as handling the equipment properly and safely. A survey was sent out to those taking the course in order to discover why students choose the class, as well as why it is so widely enjoyed.
For many, Weightlifting is an opportunity to make up credits earned in PE 2 sophomore year. As Rae Maraschin (‘25) puts it, the class tends to be a “more suitable option,” especially for those with an interest in building strength and lifting weights. While some believe that the 20 credit requirement pushes students to focus on health and fitness, others say it may impede on their schedule and ability to earn credits in other areas. One Junior suggests that 10 credits may be a more just requirement. He argues that while it’s important to take PE at least once during highschool, students who prioritize academics may wish to dedicate their time to other subjects. Another anonymous Junior shares how struggles with mental health may affect one’s PE experience; she says “it isn’t fair to push students over their limits just to gain graduation.”
A typical day in Weightlifting begins with a warm up and stretching. Students then transition to a compound movement consisting of a barbell lift. According to Luis Ayala (‘26), students do squats and shoulder press on Tuesdays, then bench press and cleans on Thursdays. On Mondays, Mr. Alonso assigns different workouts to help students build strength. The class continues with accessory workouts to get the students “hearts pumping and blood flowing”, as one Senior states. Usual additional workouts consist of dumbbell and bodyweight movements, as well as core exercises. The class ends with a cooldown before students move on to their next period.
Students enjoy the class for various reasons, as one student says, it’s a chill class where they can lift weights and relax with their friends. Another student expressed the desire to get stronger. Typically, students like that they can go at their own pace without any pressure of over exerting themselves, that’s what makes it fun. Others enjoy the class because they can spend time with their friends while working out. Overall, students enjoy the class because of its friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to learn new skills.
