Gym’ll fix exam stresses

Jun 13 2008 by Barry Ellams, Chester Chronicle

TWO Chester schoolgirls are beating exam stress by taking to the gym.

Teens Amy Venables and Lucy Hallmark work out up to four times a week to keep brain and body in tip top condition.

Both aged 16, they’ve been regulars at the Northgate Arena for three years.

Amy, of Garth Drive, Chester, and Lucy from Hoole Road, Hoole, have even taken study books with them to revise while warming up on exercise bikes or treadmills.

The Upton High School pupils agree their exercise routines help performance back in the classroom.

“Fitness does help maintain concentration and helps keep your energy levels high. We’ve both been coming to the Northgate since we were 13. It keeps you focused and helps with studies and some of the sports we do outside of school,” said Amy, a member of Chester Netball Club.

Lucy, who’s also a member of a dance troupe, added: “Exercise also helps you to feel good about yourself which is an added bonus.”

Northgate’s Steve Edwards paid tribute to the teenagers’ dedication.

“The girls have been coming to the Arena for three years and are still as determined as they were when they first began. It’s great to see them maintaining their routines.”