Some high schoolers wake up because they have younger siblings to take to school, some because they can’t fall back asleep, and others it’s a drive and a discipline to get better.
In context it could be called an addiction, but for senior Micah Bender his discipline is the addiction. Bender feeds his day by starting with an early morning workout at World Gym in Springdale.
“I like that it’s a competition with myself trying to get stronger, and do more weight,” he said.
Getting up is only half the battle, because once he is up, it’s all downhill from there.
“Waking up at 6 a.m. can get a little draining at times when I just want to fall back asleep for another hour or so,” said Bender. “But I usually eat a snack and drink my pre-workout shake and I’m good to go.”
Bender has played school sports his entire life, until this year. He has found a new way to cope with his drive at an athletic measure. Something he’s good at, and he likes doing.
“It’s enjoyable, it relieves stress, and keeps me in the great shape I want to be in,” said Bender.
There’s no award recognition for a high schooler who has the self-discipline to get up and work out every morning, but there is peer recognition of Bender’s work ethic.
“It’s amazing the amount of weight this guy can do at the size he is,” said junior Colton Braswell. “He has some work ethic, and you sure can tell.”
Braswell works alongside Bender on most mornings.
“Sometimes it’s tough to keep up with him, but when I do, it feels good,” said Braswell.
Keeping up has been a hard task for some. As many as four different guys have tried his workout and have not come back. But one thing is for sure, Bender will always be there.