Pump it up!

Men and women from all branches gathered from around the KMC for the biannual Bench Press Competition. The event was hosted by the Ramstein Southside Fitness Center, with each individual participating for the coveted title.

Congratulations to Tech. Sgt. Roderick Johnson, 721st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, for winning overall in the men’s division and to Sandi Griffin for taking the female category during this year’s second biannual bench press competition.

“Sometimes it doesn’t matter if you’re huge or buff, it all depends on how much you can lift,” said Tech. Sgt. Dwayne Haynes, 786th Force Support Squadron. “This event gives something for people to work for … and the winner gets a trophy.”

During the competition, participants are separated into respective weight
classes.

Regardless of their class, each participant is given three chances to display their bench-press abilities. The participants select their first weight and can choose to stay at the same weight or lift more in the second and third rounds.

Employees at the fitness center were ready and prepared for the event.

“Spotters are standing ready, so when the event starts you can get on the bench, keep it safe and do your best,” Hayes said.

Training was also a big step in competing in the event.

“People come in at all hours, mostly to train for individual competitions,” said Airman 1st Class Johnathon Hannon, 786th FSS fitness apprentice. “We are here to give advice; we’ve been properly trained on the equipment and how it should be used, or a modified use that would enhance a workout.”

In the event of a tie in the same weight class, the referee will look at each participant’s three lifts. The one with the most weight in the other attempts will be granted the winner.

As the event concluded, trophies were distributed and congratulations were heard all around.