Gallery • 7 Photos

Dan Parker

There are 15 unique weight machines that students can use to build and define specific muscle groups. There are three treadmills, two elliptical machines, and two bikes that students can use to burn calories.  For weightlifting there are two bench presses, two squat cages, and several barbells for squatting and dead-lifting. There is also a range of dumbbells and other free weights that can be used for a wide variety of exercises.

For the past ten years Tyrone Area High School has offered students and staff a well-appointed fitness center to help students and staff build muscle and burn calories. 

The fitness room is open for students to use during the school day during their gym period. It is also open to students and staff and after school on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm.

“The fitness room is an alternative for students who don’t like the activities we do in the gym or prefer to weight train and do cardio,” said physical education teacher Tom Coleman. “This year, more than any other, we’ve seen greater numbers of kids going to the weight room.” 

The fitness center opened during the 2007-2008 school year. The room was designed by TAHS teachers Steve Everhart and Tom Coleman.

There are 15 unique weight machines that students can use to build and define specific muscle groups. There are three treadmills, two elliptical machines, and two bikes that students can use to burn calories. 

For weightlifting there are two bench presses, two squat cages, and several barbells for squatting and dead-lifting. There is also a range of dumbbells and other free weights that can be used for a wide variety of exercises.

Many phys ed students appreciate having the option to use the fitness room instead of participating in team sports activities.

“It’s nice having an alternative for gym. Being able to choose makes the class much more enjoyable. There are also so many different things you can do in the weight room, you’ll never get bored,” said senior Ebonee Rice.

Also, the room is available to varsity athletes and other students after school.

“Its cool that athletes are able to use the weight room in the off season. With the variation of equipment and convenient location, I’m able to stay in shape and get big gains,” said senior Brent McNeel.

Everhart, who  manages the weight room, said that there may be future extensions and additions to the fitness program as a whole.

“There was a plan last year to add an entirely new 15,000 square foot facility at the track—a large chunk of which could be used for an amazing fitness facility. While the size is still open for debate, the project will not happen for a year or two at least. I know that Coach Franco and other sports’ coaches would like to see more “weight room” and less “other space” designated as part of that 15,000 SF, but that is up to Mr. Good and the school board.”

Nonetheless, Mr. Everhart still likes to see students using what we do have.

“Personally, I like seeing kids take ownership of their athletic and personal successes and overall confidence. It’s also rewarding for me to see kids breaking through goals they never thought they’d be able to achieve before they started working out.  Since I’m 55 years old, I’m beyond setting personal records, so I get more amped when I can help kids set their own.”