Inaugural recCenter Youth Bench Press Planned

Simon Ababou, fitness director for the Lititz recCenter, has noticed a change in the ages of individuals using the fitness center. "More youths are using the fitness center and the strength training area," said Ababou, who has noted close to 50 students at a time in the area. "Free weights are a trend."

In keeping with the popularity of free weights and to encourage youths to train safely, Ababou conceived of the inaugural Youth Bench Press Competition for area students ages 14 to 18. The event will be held on Saturday, Oct. 22, with weigh-in from 8:30 to 9:15 a.m., and lifting starting at 9:20 a.m. To keep the competition fair, students will be divided into categories determined by the amount of weight lifted divided by the contestant's bodyweight. The best of three successful lifts will determine the lifter's performance. Three male and three female winners will receive trophies.

Ababou has created a list of rules, which include allowable clothing, the type of grip that may be used on the bench press, and how judging and determining the winner will be governed. "These guidelines and rules show (contestants) how to bench press properly," explained Ababou. "We want to show (participants) how to compete with each other and have fun," he added, noting that he hopes to see as many as 25 students take part.

According to Ababou, the three most popular weight-training exercises are bench pressing, squats, and deadlifts. "If I have success with this (bench press competition), I might add a squat competition in the winter and a deadlift in the spring," mused Ababou.

There is a nominal fee to take part in the competition, which is discounted for rec center members. Youths who are interested in competing may contact Ababou at simonababou@lititzrec.com or call 717-626-5069, ext. 239.