So what is the Pagel weight room? Is it just for serious athletes? What if I don’t know how to use the machines? Just like you, I had some of these questions before talking with Coach Asanovich, the Minnetonka Strength and Conditioning coach.

First and foremost, the weight room is available for ALL STUDENTS. You don’t have to be a varsity athlete, incredibly fit, or the next Ironman Champion to greatly benefit from this fantastic facility. Any student can sign up on the district website to take part in a 9-week after-school conditioning program. The next session begins December 2nd and runs through February 21st. Since resting between workout sessions is essential, most students lift 2 or 3 times per week. The $40 fee funds equipment maintenance and ensures that students using the weight room are committed to show up and work out. Faithful, intense training is the only way to achieve desired results.

Coach Asanovich explains that the strength-training program has 4 main goals: to be prudent, productive, practical, and purposeful. A prudent program means the room is safe. Before beginning the strength program, Coach Asanovich teaches students how to properly use all the equipment. Productivity and practicality mean students make the most of their exercise time: it’s the quality, not the quantity of exercise that makes a difference. Practical strength training means the workout

plan is intense and works to develop muscles. Finally, a purposeful program is useful for students. Weight training is the form of exercise that gives the most physiological “bang for your buck.” While running, playing sports, or doing cardio workouts are all great ways to stay in shape, consistent weight training is the most effective in the long run. It burns fat and increases bone mineral density, guarding against conditions like osteoporosis (an ailment involving brittle bones).

If you’re looking for a way to take care of your body this winter, check out the Tonka strength training program! (As an added bonus, dedicated students who give a high intensity effort can earn a varsity letter!)