Staying Fit is More than a Job for Teacher Mrs. Johnson

Physical Education teacher Mrs. Erica Johnson practice what she preaches when it comes to staying fit.

After a day on her feet as a teacher, Johnson spends her nights coaching and training for one of the most intense fitness programs out there — Crossfit, an exercise regimen made up of high-intensity movements that reflect the best aspects of gymnastics, weightlifting, running, rowing and other sports.

“I generally train two times a day, four hours, five days a week,” Mrs. Johnson said. She also coaches Crossfit five days a week.

The former Temple University Rugby player is in such good shape that she was able to do over 300 push-ups in the Veteran’s Day contest.

Because she is so into fitness, teaching physical education is the perfect job, she said.

“It allows me to stay active, and also teach kids how to move and have fun while exercising.”  

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Some students find it inspiring to have such an in-shape physical education teacher at the school.

 “When she taught us for the Thanksgiving Run we did before break, it was great to see her doing exercise with us,” Freshman Tanner McCafferty said.

The Turkey Trot is held annually during gym classes right before Thanksgiving vacation. The challenging course includes running and many more exercises that students must complete to burn some calories before the big Thanksgiving meal.

Mrs. Johnson said her biggest piece of advice to anyone who wants to get fit is to just take everything in a little bit at a time.

“Don’t overwhelm yourself,” she said. “Anyone can get healthy with enough support and will-power.”