Strength in numbers

Strength training program takes off at school

The weight room at Clear Lake High School is busy these days-- and not just during the winter months when the weather limits outdoor activities.  The school district is in its second year of developing an all-school strength training program that all students can be involved in all year round.  

According to Middle School and High School Activities Director Dale Ludwig, the purpose of the program is to provide structure to programs both in and out of a student’s sport season.  It also encourages use of the weight room by students who may not be involved in any sport, but who are interested in fitness or getting instruction in what could become a life-long exercise option.

“The guideline is that when a student is in-season they will participate in a program that involves speed, agility, strength and conditioning with his or her team.  When a student is not in-season, the school is providing a structured off-season program to help the student maintain and develop in those areas.  The purpose of the program is to provide an opportunity and a service for all of our student-athletes not only in-season, but out-of-season.  It will also help us bring continuity to our strength and conditioning program from season to season and better utilize our weight room facilities.”

The program is being led by Jesse Collins, a Certified Strength and Conditioning Coach.  Collins earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Exercise Science from Central College in Pella, Iowa, and earned his Master’s in Physical Education from Florida State University.  Collins worked as a strength coach at Florida State with its baseball and football teams for five years.  He also helped with the swimming and diving team and golf teams during that time.  Prior to working at Florida State, Collins interned with the Iowa football team as strength and conditioning coach.  He has worked with 40 or more Major League baseball players and NFL players over the years, as well.

Heading into its second year, Collins said he and the students and coaches he has been working with are seeing results.

In fact, the success of Clear Lake’s football, basketball, wrestling and even baseball programs was likely boosted by time spent in the weight room working on strength - Read More Via e-Edition