Student Org Spotlight: Barbell Club
Editor's note: This article was written prior to University of the Sciences' merger with and into Saint Joseph's University and does not reflect the current, combined institution. References to programs, offices, colleges, employees, etc., may be historical information.
The USciences Barbell Club provides a place for students to step away from their academics and join others who are interested in fitness and weightlifting. Barbell Club President Stephen Blanchard, '22 (DPT) shared more about Barbell Club and it’s members.
Describe Barbell Club- what is the purpose or mission?
The purpose of our org is to promote health and fitness across the USciences campus. The organization was designed to create a group of people who are interested in bettering themselves through the ways of physical fitness and weightlifting.
We have a mission to not only create such a community of like-minded people, but also to help educate those who are not as familiar with the process. Since we began as an organization in the Spring of 2018, there have been a number of new members who have benefited from coming to our meetings, working out with us, and learning more about weightlifting.
Why should people join?
People who are interested in weightlifting or learning how to begin weightlifting are perfect candidates as members of the Barbell Club. We host weekly meetings at the ARC after hours on the weekends which gives us the opportunity to utilize all of the gym’s equipment for our own workout and teach those who are less experienced.
It is a great community of people who are dedicated to helping others with the similar goals they may have had when they first began weightlifting
Why did you join Barbell Club?
As a founding member of the organization, I wanted to join to help grow the community of USciences weightlifters and educate those who are interested but do not feel ready to get going on their own, or cannot afford the costs of a personal trainer.
What I like most about this organization is the relationship that members are able to build with one another. We all come for different reasons, but at the end of the day we are all doing the same thing- lifting weights. Whether you are experienced, advanced, or a beginner, you will be welcomed into this organization with open arms and will receive help from any of the members in improving your workout routine and technique.
What are Barbell Club members like?
Our members are typically those who are interested in weightlifting to improve their overall health and strength. When looking for new members, we are looking for people who are genuinely interested in participating in our meetings and events.
What kind of events do you participate in throughout the year?
Aside from our weekly meetings held at the Arc, we also hold an annual Barbell Club Powerlifting Meet. This gives our members the opportunity to demonstrate the strength gains they have made in the past year. Regardless if they want to be a “powerlifter”, this event gives the members an opportunity to see how much they’re grown in a competitive manner that fundraises a person or foundation in need of donation.
Connect with Barbell Club on Instagram @usciencesbarbell