By: MMACHS Staff
On A Day afternoons you'll find a unique workout happening in the MMACHS fitness center. Leading students through burpees and pull-ups is science teacher Arn Allemand, a 20+ year veteran of the school whose knowledge extends well beyond the lectures he delivers in his Biology classes.
"I have been participating in CrossFit since 2016 and coaching since 2018 working with athletes from 6-70 years old." he says, "The thing that I appreciate most about this form of training is that it prepares me for literally anything I may want to do by helping to develop strength, coordination, endurance, mobility, and a strong sense of what my body can and cannot do."
When the opportunity opened up in the schedule to give MMACHS students a chance to learn about this increasingly popular form of working out, Mr. Allemand jumped at it. Not only because of his passion for the practice, but also because of what it can do for future health professionals.
"Historically CrossFit was a method of physical training embraced by first responders and service personnel to prepare for the rigors of their job."
But you don't need to be planning for a career as an EMT to enjoy the class.
"Our students come to the class with a variety of goals, some have a desire to improve fitness for sports & activities." Allemand says, "Others want an opportunity for a brain break and/or recognize the importance of physical activity in academic success, while some just want abs."
Junior Dylan Elkington likes that the class gives him a chance to disconnect from the academic rigor of MMACHS, and focus on a different aspect of his well-being.
"I think so far it has probably been my favorite class" he says, "It's a total decompress class. It's more physically challenging than mentally challenging."
"It's really been helping me with dance." says junior Halle Nielsen, demonstrating how the benefits of the class have manifested in other aspects of her life.
Mr. Allemand hopes more students have an opportunity to see what the class can do for them both inside and outside of the classroom.
"Our students should choose this class because it's fun to be fit and research supports the connection between fitness and academics. It's also a healthy method of stress relief and by doing it during the school day you have time after school to enjoy the things you love." Students at our school have chosen a path of service and a commitment to help others in need...having the physical ability to do this is vital to your success and the success of your patients.
Whatever their reasons for joining, students will certainly be more prepared physically and mentally for challenges both in and out of the classroom.
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