Alexander Tian, or Alex as he is known to most, is a sophomore studying at The Boston University Sargent College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences. In his free time, he enjoys working out at the BU Fitness and Recreation Center.
Tian prefers to work out early in the morning, leaving his dorm at 6am every Sunday.
On the way to the gym, he munches on a plain, wholewheat bagel.
Tian begins to warm up by doing a few bench press exercises.
Steel disk weights are attached at each end of a steel bar and the weights are secured via a clamp.
Spotters are often helpful when lifting weights. Here, Sam Lee is acting as a spotter, prepared to help in case something goes wrong.
Weightlifting is a sport where barbells are lifted competitively or as an exercise. In order for a move to be considered weightlifting, the barbell must begin on the floor.
Weightlifting belts are often used to protect the spine.
Liquid chalk is used to improve grip.
Tian and his friend Simon Huang work together to add weights to the barbell.
Tian and Huang bond over music their music tastes and preferred workout playlists.
Today, Tian will be deadlifting. This where the loaded barbell is lifted to hip-level before being placed back down on the ground.
Tian moves to lift 405lbs as Simon Huang sits back to watch
Tian successfully deadlifts 405lbs.
In between sets, Tian sits on some weights as he takes time to recover.
In between sets, Tian sits on some weights as he takes time to recover.
To finish the workout, Tian lifts some dumbbells while concentrating on his form.
After a long workout session, Tian stands in front of the mirror and has some fun flexing his muscles.
Tian leaves Boston University’s Fitness and Recreation Center after a long morning of lifting weights.
Following the workout, Tian fuels his body with food from Boston University’s West Campus Dining Hall.
