Lee alumnus goes viral for at-home themed workouts
Photo courtesy of Lee University Office of Public Relations.
Known to his students as “Coach Wood,” Lee alum Aaron Wood is creating online workout videos to help keep students entertained and active while at home.
“Regardless of where you live, I can be your PE teacher,” said Wood.
After graduating from Lee in 2013 and obtaining his master’s degree at Arkansas State University, Wood now works as a physical education teacher at Hixson Elementary School. In response to COVID-19 and the closure of schools in Hamilton County, Wood began making interactive and themed videos for his students.
“Being active helps with learning and also just makes us just feel better,” said Wood. “We are all stuck inside, and if we are lazy and don’t do anything, then that’s not gonna help with our attitudes. We gotta stay positive, and exercise helps with that.”
Wood started with just making videos for his students, but after his videos began gaining attention and more views, he now has the opportunity to encourage everyone to stay active.
“Coach Wood is positive, creative and energetic,” said Meredith Woods, a parent and consistent follower of Wood’s videos. “I have recommended his videos to many of my friends that are parents and shared his story on Instagram. I love what he is doing.”
Wood releases new content Monday through Friday to his YouTube channel. With his total view count surpassing 289,000, he has amassed a following from all over the globe.
“I found coach Wood via Instagram … One of his videos popped up, and I took a look at his profile,” said Pennfield High School softball coach Collins Molly. “I loved that he was a fellow PE teacher. No matter the grade level, I love following and supporting colleagues. Plus, it can always spark ideas.”
The future of Wood’s videos beyond COVID-19 has not yet been decided, but he is currently focusing on continuing to generate new content each week. Wood’s videos can be found here.
