Fitness community prepares for “Day of the Deadlift”

Kyle Knox

Gila River Indian News

The Tribal Recreation and Wellness (TRW) began hosting numerous strength training programs in Sept., focusing on deadlifting. The activities are all in preparation for its annual Day of the Deadlift (DOTD) event on Oct. 14. The event will return in-person after a two-year pause due to the pandemic.

Throughout Sept., TRW hosted workshops, seminars, and deadlift parties to help novice weight lifters familiarize themselves with the exercise. Their goal is to encourage more Community members to learn about the movement so they can participate safely in this year’s DOTD. 

All the events drew many weight lifters and brought many new lifters from the Community. 

“It’s pretty amazing what you can accomplish and lift when you really start training and it’s great to see how many people are coming out to these events,” said Javonni Molina, TRW Fitness Instructor. 

Molina hosted a deadlift party Thurs. Sept. 8 at the District 3 Multipurpose Building gymnasium. Twenty power lifters, male and female, participated in testing their strength among encouraging trainers. This party was modeled like the actual DOTD and allowed her and the new fitness staff to practice how the DOTD will occur since it will be their first time hosting this year. 

Fourteen-year-old Kaylani Lyons, District 4, was the top female participant that evening, lifting a total of 365 pounds. She is planning on participating at the DOTD so this was an excellent opportunity to experience the TRW weights. 

“I felt really good, it was fun tonight and that’s what it’s all about,” said Lyons. She is an avid weight lifter and even holds a few state records for her accomplishments. While it is a competition, she likes how encouraging everyone was at the party.

This year’s DOTD will take place Friday, Oct. 14, starting at 6 p.m. at the Sacaton Fairgrounds. Registration is limited to 70 participants and is now open until Sept. 30 or until filled. For more information on TRW activities or to register, contact TRW at (520) 562-2026 or by emailing wellness.center@gric.nsn.us