It’s sixth period weight training at Issaquah High School, but don’t expect sweaty shirtless boys to take turns trying to prove their brawn or stereotyped testosterone-fueled teasing.

Don’t even expect to find men, because this class is all women and it’s all about encouragement.

“It’s a lot more chill,” said senior Jayden Russell. “If the boys were in the class, they’d be showing off for the girls.”

Russell has always been interested in weight training, but didn’t sign up until she heard there was going to be one for women, she said. “I would be too embarrassed to be weak in front of the guys.”

In the expertly equipped weight room, with views of the stadium and surrounding mountains, girls take turns pressing iron.

Teacher Buddy Bland started the class with a few instructions and a few challenges; chief among them was to do a pull-up.

Girls took turns helping hold classmates up while they attempted the chin-ups.

“Fight it, you just fight it,” he said, encouraging one student.

The girl’s whole-hearted attempt was half-successful, but the classmates applauded her struggle.

“We all push each other and motivate each other to try harder,” said junior Anne Roberson.

For some it’s harder than for others.

Junior Shannon Henegham decided to push herself harder in the class by setting goals to break all three of the women’s weight-lifting records.

Girls are often better early lifters, because they’re typically more flexible and have better posture.

“I want them to be able to walk into a gym and do a workout,” Bland said. “I want them to feel like they belong.”

The biggest challenge for Bland is to convince girls that they are stronger than they think, whereas with men they start with too much weight.

Bland got the idea for the class two years ago, when new ballet and yoga classes drew all the women away from the weight training classes.

He knew a lot of women were interested in the class, but uncomfortable being surrounded by so many boys, he said. “It eliminated the worry of having to look good for the guys.”

He got approval to list the class this fall. It was popular enough that he almost had enough for two sections.

“It makes you healthier and it makes you stronger,” Roberson said. “It’s a really positive environment.”