YMCA to offer ‘linebacker training’

YMCA fitness news

The YMCA of Van Wert County is excited to announce that it now offers linebacker training or “metabolic devastation” classes with YMCA Trainer Kory Hesseling. The class will take place on the following Saturdays: March 16, 23, 30, and April 6.

The 40-minute sessions will focus on high intensity cardio interspersed with strength training and would be suitable for any athlete trying to get into peak cardiovascular shape and increase overall large muscle group strength. Cost for all four sessions is $25 for members and $35 for non-members.

Linebacker training originated at West Point military academy and was used as a way for linemen to shed weight, yet add strength. Many university sports, such as the Florida State University men’s basketball program, use linebacker training as a way to prepare their athletes for the rigors of college level competition.

Hesseling learned how to implement linebacker training while studying for his exercise science degree at the University of Toledo. Toledo athletics uses this type of training in several of their athletic areas.

“The point of linebacker training is to move between a high intensity one-minute cardio such as sprinting on a treadmill or elliptical machine, then moving directly into a large muscle group movement,” Hesseling said. “We work the large muscle group, such as shoulders, for 12 repetitions, and we use the negative part of the motion to build strength; those repetitions are to failure, where the muscle is completely fatigued and the individual cannot do another repetition. The cycle is repeated with cardio and incorporating other large muscle groups for 30 minutes.”

The sessions will be conducted in groups of four people, so space is limited. Class times are 8:30-9:10 a.m., 9:15-9:55 a.m., and 10-10:40 a.m. and classes must be filled from the earliest time to the latest time. The training is for anyone in grades 9-12 and is available to individuals who would like to try this type of exercise regimen to add some intensity and variety to their workout.

“Any athlete can benefit from this type of training, from football and soccer players to basketball participants,” said YMCA Wellness Director Julie Schaufelberger. “It would also make a very challenging workout for those who are already fit and want to be pushed a little more and change up their routine.”

For more Information about this and other programs available at the Van Wert YMCA call 419.238.0443 or visit the YM’s website at www.vwymca.org. The YMCA of Van Wert County is partially funded by the Van Wert County Foundation and United Way of Van Wert County.