Students are finding mental resilience while building physical strength in Garfield Park Academy’s Therapeutic Training Program (TTP). The program builds on research that uses resistance training and mindfulness to support healing and resilience for those who have experienced trauma. Resistance training—using weights such as barbells, dumbbells, and weight machines—stresses muscles and causes them to adapt by getting stronger, similar to the way aerobic conditioning strengthens the heart.
The impact of resistance training on emotional challenges is an emerging area of exercise science; new research is showing the mental health benefits of strength training to combat depression and anxiety. In addition, participation in exercise and fitness routines in school has been shown to increase teen self-esteem, increase grades, and lower bullying rates.
“We are helping students find reserves of strength they did not know they have. We emphasize a body-positive outlook, but as much as it might change them physically, the program seeks to transform students on the inside.” -Renee Edwards, Social Worker
The program is offered in addition to Garfield Park Academy’s yoga program and mindfulness programs. It was created to combat the isolating and dividing nature of trauma and give students another vehicle for wellness and resilience. Students learn exercise routines and benefit from psychoeducation around the positive impacts of exercise and healing.
