Training Styles

A glance at the different ways to physically train

Ishaan Pandey, Community Engagement Liaison • December 2, 2024

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Carter Hanley (12) bicep curls a resistance bar at Lifetime Fitness Nov. 19. He started lifting at the beginning of high school and has continued since. “I know I can keep going and keep on progressing,” Hanley said. “I love seeing the results of the work. it’s really satisfying and pays off.” (Lathan Levy)

1. Weightlifting – Lifting weights is a way to improve individual strength and mental health. Weightlifting uses resistance with weights to build muscle by slightly tearing fibers, then allowing them to heal and grow. However, weightlifting isn’t simply picking up weights; it requires a strong mentality and grit. Carter Hanley (12) highlights the mindset needed to progress with weightlifting. “Discipline is key, but patience and persistence are just as important because you’re not going to see results overnight—it takes weeks, months, even years,” Hanley said. “You have to put in the time and effort to see progress.”

Alexandra Tsygankov (12) runs on the track Nov. 18. She has run cross country for the last four years, since her freshman year. “It’s going to be the friendships and the person you grow [into] that’s gonna matter more than anything,” Tsygankov said. (Vincent Hsiao)

2. Running – Running is a simple, yet effective way to improve your physical and mental state. Running builds endurance, strengthens muscles and improves cardiovascular health. Beyond the physical advantages, many run as a source of comfort and community. Alexandra Tsygankov (12) uses running to connect with others and feel better. “At first my mindset was, ‘Oh, I want to do well and see how far I can go athletically,’” Tsygankov said. “But after a little bit, I realized I just want to have fun. For me, It’s more like an outlet, like a second home, where I can be the best version of myself and have fun.”

Seph Zhu (10) performs a pull up in the weight room Nov. 20. His favorite exercise to perform is the pull-up. “It is definitely pull-ups, because I’m good at them, and I think they are pretty fun,” Zhu said. “Also there are a lot of progressions that you could do with pull-ups.” (Olu Falako)

3. Calisthenics – Calisthenics is a way to work out utilizing body weight to build oneself. It’s a versatile way to train and can lead to better coordination and stability, while also helping to build dense muscle. Calisthenics has a progressive system where one can gradually increase the difficulty of the exercise, which comes from mastering the basic movements. Seph Zhu (10) enjoys the training style due to the challenge it provides. “If you’re doing pull ups and you get really good at pull ups, you can start progressing to one arm pull ups or muscle ups,” Zhu said. “There’s a ton of different variations of one exercise.”

About the Contributors

Ishaan Pandey, Community Engagement Liaison

Junior Ishaan Pandey is in his second-year member on Panorama, as the new Community Engagement Liaison. He enjoys challenging himself and trying new things. Ishaan spends his time participating in many extracurriculars, playing Water Polo and exercising.

Vincent Hsiao, Photography Editor in Chief

Vincent Hsiao is in his second year as Photography Editor in Chief for Ladue Publications. Hsiao is a captain on the swim team, and serves as the Public Relations Co-Chair for National Honor Society. Outside of Publications, Hsiao runs his own photography business and freelances for MaxPreps as a sports photographer.

Lathan Levy, Panorama Managing Editor in Chief

Senior Lathan Levy is a managing editor in chief for Ladue Publications. This is his 3rd year on staff. In his free time he enjoys playing lacrosse, taking photos, and eating food.