HEALTH IS THE PRIZE

 By Bobby Eichner

Adolescence is a time where many struggle with body dysmorphia, weight issues, and perception.  Many teens and young children in today's cruel world  are criticized for the way they look by their peers and are constantly being body shamed.  This leads to over 60 million Americans having eating disorders.  As a direct result of these disorders, one death every 62 minutes and the highest mortality rate of any mental illness occurs, according to the The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders.

Aside from eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia, obesity is plaguing our society as fast food is becoming more and more accessible to minors substituting for wholesome food.  In New York City, for instance, there is a McDonalds within a mile radius at all times.  Prices at fast food franchises often drive families to non-nutritional food rather than more expensive nutritional food.  According to personal trainer Gaudi Rosa, “The average family cannot afford to eat healthy everyday on the average salary for New York.”

As these epidemics root themselves across the nation, students from all walks of life and sizes are banning together to live healthier lifestyles in order to steer clear from the line of sight of bullies.  Many are doing this by acquiring monthly gym memberships, becoming active athletes in their school districts, or crushing bad eating habits at the source.  Here in Washingtonville, there are several gyms in the vicinity.  Perhaps one of the most sought after establishments is Santer Fitness, owned by Washingtonville alumni, Matthew Santer. 

Located at 3 Locust Street,  Santer Fitness is only a short drive from the center of town making it easily accessible to most residents.  The gym features a full dance and fitness studio, locker rooms, various lifting equipment, treadmills, ellipticals, step machines, and stationary bikes.  In addition, the gym boasts extremely knowledgeable personal trainers who are always willing to answer questions and offer valuable advice.  There truly is something for everyone at Santer Fitness.

Not only does this family owned gym provide a way for many young teens and adults to live a healthier lifestyle, it can also occupy their time with a healthy habit.  “Instead of sitting at home wasting my life away, I found an interest in becoming a happier and stronger version of myself,” explained senior Ian lynch. Living a healthier lifestyle can “mentally make you happier while building up a confidence and self-esteem that wasn't existent before,” WHS student and bodybuilder Neftali Gomez expressed.  

Matt Santer, a former Washingtonville High School baseball player, knows the impact that sports can have on students and is no stranger to giving back to his former high school.  He established connections with the school and runs a fitness camp for football and lacrosse players where agility, strength, and hand-eye coordination is improved upon. 

Healthy habits start in the early ages of life.  As 77% of adults are overweight and ⅓ of children are obese,” according to the National Center for Obesity, Americans need to come together as a whole to combat unhealthy eating habits today.