Pushups, sprints and squats — staples of high-intensity interval training — aren’t typical conditions of probation terms. But for the past 12 weeks, they have been an integral part of an unlikely journey for three teenage boys, each charged with nonviolent gun offenses in Baton Rouge.

For two hours every Saturday, the three met at Gus Young Park for intensive group therapy, mentorship discussions and, of course, sweat.

“Our focus is on using physical fitness as a tool to bridge the gap in conversation and just getting the guys comfortable overall,” said Michael Blakes, a strength and conditioning coach at Glen Oaks Magnet High School and co-founder of Sweating N Spirit, a nonprofit that helps youngsters with physical fitness and career development.

Blakes and his business partner, Denni

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