Since its addition to Chamblee Plaza in 2017, Crunch has served as a place of self-improvement and a social space for Chamblee Bulldogs. Due to it being only a short walk away from our school, it’s a common sight to see Chamblee students hitting the gym after school.
A common reason many Chamblee students go to Crunch over other gyms is because their friends work out there.
“I felt like all my friends come here. I used to work out at the YMCA, but I have more friends [at Crunch] so I would rather go there instead,” said Luke Yang (‘28).
Alternatively, some students enjoy lifting weights with friends, but find it more effective to work out alone rather than in a group.
“I usually work out by myself. It’s a good thing to lift when you’ve got a friend or two, but sometimes you can’t be productive when there are other people,” said Anonayo Snigdho (‘26).
People start going to the gym for a variety of reasons; however, some go to boost their confidence.
“I just wanted to get fit in middle school. I was lacking in that department and I was really unhealthy. Since freshman year, I started coming and ever since then, I’m happier and I’m more confident,” said Conor Coy (‘27).
With many students now dual enrolling in college-level classes, they have extra time throughout the day to participate in more activities. One of which is having much more time to go to Crunch.
“Dual enrollment makes lifting a lot easier. Because I have dual enrollment in the morning, I can go to Crunch during that morning period,” said Patrick Shaw (‘26).
Those involved in CHS Sports may find it more difficult to hit the gym with a tighter schedule and not want to exhaust their energy before an important game or meet.
“It all ties together with dual enrollment. Being able to lift in the morning and then being able to go run after school makes it work and balances my schedule a lot better instead of having to stack up a bunch of activities at the end of my day,” said Shaw.
Because Crunch is a public gym, other people do work out there and often give good advice to those who are newer to lifting.
“I don’t talk to the adults that work out there, but I have gotten advice that’s always been helpful. If I’m ever doing a lift and my form isn’t very good, a guy who’s more experienced will come over and help correct my form in a non-judgemental way,” said Shaw.
