This Week on Straight to the Bar

I'm constantly amazed at just how much my training is influenced by the people on this site. Whether you're looking for a new piece of equipment, an unusual exercise variation or just an idea of how others approach things, you'll enjoy these :

• Checklists and Complex Problems
  By Adam Stoffa
  How do you solve a complex problem like 'Improving Physical Performance'? Over to Adam.
  
• My Visit to Nashville Kettlebell House of Hardstyle.
  By Mike 'The Machine' Bruce
  Mike swings by Dave 'Iron Tamer' Whitley's new training facility. Nice one.
  

Ready to add your own opinion, workout log or training article? Just head over to the Forums, Training Logs, or swing by the Article Submissions page. They're fantastic ways to share your ideas.

NB : if you enjoy the articles, show the authors your appreciation by voting (using the Like, Digg and Retweet icons). Cheers.

Video : Speed, Quickness, Reactive Drills for Athletes

How do you train for speed and reaction times? Over to Smitty.

Coming Events

Twitterchat 73 - Training with Clubs

I absolutely love leverage training, especially with clubs. Superb things.

This week we're taking a close look at the Club Training world - everything from 'what they are' to the many, many great ways to put them to work. Helping us get a handle on these great tools is none other than StrongerGrip's Ryan Pitts (@strongergrip), certainly no slouch when it comes to a dose of club work himself. Fantastic.


Details -

Who : Strength-training fans
Topic : Training with Clubs
When : Wed Jul 7, 9pm EDT (1am UTC)
How : Include #sbgym in your tweets.

To see when it's on in your timezone, head over to the twitterchat calendar.

Quick update on last week's twitterchat : Thanks once again to Karsten Jensen (@CoachKarsten) and everyone else who took part in the discussion on Periodization. Some superb ideas in there.

For those who missed out on the conversation, I'd love to hear your thoughts. How are you making use of periodisation in your own training? Which form are you currently putting to work?

Reading : Supertraining (6th Edition)

Several great books were mentioned during last week's discussion on Periodisation, including the superb Supertraining. During the week I was fortunate enough to get my hands on the latest incarnation (6th edition), which looks very promising indeed.

Really looking forward to diving in.

Exercise of the Week : Kettlebell Juggling for Two

Now here's my idea of a good time - grab your training partner and toss a kettlebell their way.

Kettlebell Juggling for Two.

This Week on Straight to the Bar

I'm constantly amazed at just how much my training is influenced by the people on this site. Whether you're looking for a new piece of equipment, an unusual exercise variation or just an idea of how others approach things, you'll enjoy these :

• My friend The Human Vice.
  Nice piece on a seriously strong guy - Pat 'The Human Vice' Povalitis.
  
• The Magnificent Seven
  There have been some truly incredible articles on this site over the years; here are a handful of favourites. 7, to be exact.
  

Ready to add your own opinion, workout log or training article? Just head over to the Forums, Training Logs, or swing by the Article Submissions page. They're fantastic ways to share your ideas.

NB : if you enjoy the articles, show the authors your appreciation by voting (using the Like, Digg and Retweet icons). Cheers.

Video : AntiGravity Obstacle Course

If you've ever thought about building your own obstacle course, here are a few ideas. Nice one.

Coming Events

Twitterchat 72 - Periodisation (or Periodization if you prefer)

I'm fascinated by the various ways in which people adapt their training in order to suit long-term goals. Everything from a specific challenge or competition to a simple 'I want to pull x lbs by the end of the year'. Good stuff.

This week we're taking a look at one of the many kinds of physical preparation available, Periodisation - itself having a variety of uses and implementations. Helping us peek into this fascinating world is Strength Coach and 'Trainer of Trainers' Karsten Jensen (@CoachKarsten), himself a long-time adherent to a structured, cycled training approach.

Should be a fantastic discussion.


Details -

Who : Strength-training fans
Topic : Periodisation
When : Wed Jun 30, 9pm EDT (1am UTC)
How : Include #sbgym in your tweets.

To see when it's on in your timezone, head over to the twitterchat calendar.

Quick update on last week's twitterchat : Following the discussion on Training Whilst Travelling there have been a number of superb videos showing various DIY and travel-ready pieces of equipment.

Of these, my favourite is the setup shown in this video - an inexpensive suspension training system which is perfect for both indoor and outdoor sessions while you're on-the-road. Nice one.

Getting Ready For : SELECTED!

There's an enormous stack of training books & DVDs sitting beside my desk here (it's amazing just how much arrived while I was in Townsville), and I'm diving into it at every available opportunity. There's some great stuff in there.

Among them is Josh Henkin's new SELECTED! DVD, which outlines a series of workouts based on those used with US Army Special Forces candidates. I have to say, it looks fantastic.

Full review shortly; in the meantime, swing by Josh's site and check it out. Good stuff.

NB : as I mentioned above, there's a stack of great material here. If you're interested in reviewing any of it, drop me a line or grab me on twitter. Look forward to it.

Exercise of the Week : Kettlebell Snatch

Here's a brief tutorial on a kettlebell staple - The Snatch. Good stuff.

This Week on Straight to the Bar

I'm constantly amazed at just how much my training is influenced by the people on this site. Whether you're looking for a new piece of equipment, an unusual exercise variation or just an idea of how others approach things, you'll enjoy these :

• Rob's Training Log
  Rob Sinnott
  Hard and heavy.
  
• Deven's Training Log
  Deven
  The serious training continues.
  

Ready to add your own opinion, workout log or training article? Just head over to the Forums, Training Logs, or swing by the Article Submissions page. They're fantastic ways to share your ideas.

NB : if you enjoy the articles, show the authors your appreciation by voting (using the Like, Digg and Retweet icons). Cheers.

Video : Sandbag TGU Variation

Here's a subtle variation of the Turkish Get-Up. Note that Josh is using a sandbag here, but the same idea applies to whichever form of resistance you're using. Good stuff.

Deal of the Week : %30 Discount on StrongerGrip Thick-Handled Clubs

These are awesome.

I love a dose of club training, and the StrongerGrip thick-handled clubs are a clear favourite. Challenging, loadable and beautifully made. Brilliant things.

As a bonus for readers of this newsletter, Ryan has agreed to offer a discount on these superb training tools. The first 20 people to order one of the StrongerGrip thick handle grip clubs will receive a tasty %30 discount - just enter STTB at checkout.

Perfect.

NB : thanks to everyone who grabbed one of the StrongerGrip Monster Sledges we offered a couple of weeks ago. Based on the rate that they disappeared, well, get in quick.

Coming Events

Twitterchat 71 : Training Whilst Travelling

As I've been on-the-road for the past two weeks (just got back this evening), I've been doing a lot of thinking & experimenting on this : the best way to train while you're travelling.

This week will be be an open discussion on this very subject, with a few key questions at its core - how do you train when you're on-the-road? Is it a matter of maintaining strength, seeing what's available, or simply taking a break?

How about diet; nice and strict, make a few allowances, or just eat whatever's available?

Should be a good one.

NB : a huge thanks to the guest moderator for the past two discussions - The Fight Geek (@thefightgeek). Much appreciated.


Details -

Who : Strength-training fans
Topic : Training Whilst Travelling
When : Wed Jun 23, 9pm EDT (1am UTC)
How : Include #sbgym in your tweets.

To see when it's on in your timezone, head over to the twitterchat calendar.

Getting Ready For : Ultimate Forearm Training for Baseball

As I mentioned briefly above, I just got back this evening and am preparing to dive into a pile of training-related books and DVDs over the next few days.

One of these is Jedd Johnson's new one - Ultimate Forearm Training for Baseball - which looks fantastic. Full review shortly.

Exercise of the Week : Inverted Rope Climb

Looking for a challenge? How about some Inverted Rope Climbing. Good fun.

This Week on Straight to the Bar

I'm constantly amazed at just how much my training is influenced by the people on this site. Whether you're looking for a new piece of equipment, an unusual exercise variation or just an idea of how others approach things, you'll enjoy these :

• Rob's Training Log
  Rob Sinnott
  Hard and heavy.
  
• Deven's Training Log
  Deven
  The serious training continues.
  

Ready to add your own opinion, workout log or training article? Just head over to the Forums, Training Logs, or swing by the Article Submissions page. They're fantastic ways to share your ideas.

NB : if you enjoy the articles, show the authors your appreciation by voting (using the Like, Digg and Retweet icons). Cheers.

Video : Parkour Marathon

How does a 1,000 mile Parkour Ultramarathon sound? Incredible.

Over to Johnny 'Sticky' Budden.

Coming Events

Twitterchat 70 - Underground Strength & Fitness (Part II)

What's your own training area like - a room in your house, a local hardcore gym, a rented garage perhaps?

This week Kira Robert Clarke - better known as The Fight Geek - continues the discussion on Underground Strength and Fitness, taking a close look at the 5 types of 'Underground' gyms. Good stuff.

NB : As I'm still enjoying the endless beaches and crystal-clear waters of northern Queensland, Kira (@thefightgeek). will once again be the guest moderator for this one. Fantastic.


Details -

Who : Strength-training fans
Topic : Underground Strength and Fitness
When : Wed Jun 16, 9pm EDT (1am UTC)
How : include #sbgym in your tweets.

To see when it's on in your timezone, head over to the twitterchat calendar.

Getting Ready For : Ultimate Forearm Training for Baseball

As I mentioned briefly above, I'm still on-the-road for another week; and stockpiling a number of training-related books for the return.

One of these is Jedd Johnson's new one - Ultimate Forearm Training for Baseball - which looks fantastic. Full review in a bit over a week.

Exercise of the Week : Burpee Bonanza

Love the humble burpee? Try these variations. Good fun.

NB : looking for more? Have a go at these.

Enjoy.

This Week on Straight to the Bar

I'm constantly amazed at just how much my training is influenced by the people on this site. Whether you're looking for a new piece of equipment, an unusual exercise variation or just an idea of how others approach things, you'll enjoy these :

• Evolution of Sandbag Training
  Josh Henkin
  This is a fantastic series (part I, II) on both the 'why' and 'how' of sandbag training.

  Enjoy.
  



• Summer Freak Program - Arms
  Rob Sinnott
  The serious training continues.

  Good stuff.
  

Ready to add your own opinion, workout log or training article? Just head over to the Forums, Training Logs, or swing by the Article Submissions page. They're fantastic ways to share your ideas.

NB : if you enjoy the articles, show the authors your appreciation by voting (using the Like, Digg and Retweet icons). Cheers.

Video : Mason Doherty - Pull-up Variations

Love pull-ups - on a bar, tree branch, wall - whatever's available. Mason Doherty demonstrates several variations of this great exercise.

Enjoy.

Deal of the Week : %20 Discount on StrongerGrip Monster Sledge

I love hammer work.

Adam Glass first put me on to the StrongerGrip grip tools a couple of years ago now (cheers Adam), and it's abundantly clear that they're built by someone who actually trains with them. Not only are they exceedingly tough (virtually indestructible, really); they feel 'right' when you're training with them.

Beautiful things.

When Ryan created the larger, loadable line of sledgehammers - particularly the Monster Sledge - I can't tell you how excited I was. Whether you use it for strength or conditioning work, if you enjoy a solid dose of hammer work, the Monster Sledge is ideal.

Up to 50lb of shot-loading sledgehammer goodness. Perfect.

NB : want to save some cash? How does a 20% discount sound?

When you're grabbing your Monster Sledge, enter the coupon code 'STTBMS' at checkout. The first 15 purchasers will receive a tasty %20 discount.

Beautiful.

Coming Events

Twitterchat 69 - Managing Training Complexity

A couple of questions for all the coaches and trainers out there - what type of information do you provide to new clients, and in what form? How do you tackle the subtle variations between requirements?

This week we're taking a look at the many approaches to Managing Training Complexity, from both the trainer's and client's point of view. Addressing the needs of everyone involved in the most efficient way possible.

Helping us navigate this fascinating area is none other than SEE's Adam Stoffa, a man who defines both inspiration and creativity. Fantastic.

NB : As I'll be on-the-road (doing a little family history research) during the discussion, I've arranged a guest moderator for this one. Get ready for the enigmatic Fight Geek (@thefightgeek).
Details -

Who : Strength-training fans
Topic : Managing Training Complexity
When : Wed Jun 9, 9pm EDT (1am UTC)
How : include #sbgym in your tweets.

To see when it's on in your timezone, head over to the twitterchat calendar.

See you there.

Quick update on last week's twitterchat : Following the discussion on Fitness & Health Gadgets there have been several new devices and services noted; particularly iPhone and iPad applications.

With so many fantastic apps appearing all the time, I'd love to know - which is your favourite?

NB : If you'd like to be a guest on a future twitterchat, let me know. It's great to hear how other people are training.

Getting Ready For : The Flexible Periodization Method

As I mentioned briefly above, I'll be on-the-road for the next couple of weeks; and am taking several training-related books to keep me off the streets at night.

One of these is Karsten Jensen's new one - The Flexible Periodization Method - which looks fantastic. Full review in a fortnight or so.

Exercise of the Week : Sledgehammer Vertical Tyre Slam

Looking for a few ways to put your sledgehammer to work? Here's a great one - the Vertical Tyre (or Tire) Slam. Good fun.

This Week on Straight to the Bar

I'm constantly amazed at just how much my training is influenced by the people on this site. Whether you're looking for a new piece of equipment, an unusual exercise variation or just an idea of how others approach things, you'll enjoy these :

• Diesel Steel Bending Basics
  Jedd 'Napalm' Johnson
  If you've ever seen someone bend a nail, bolt, or that wrench that should've been thrown away ages ago; you'll appreciate just how impressive it can be.

  Fortunately, it's much easier to get started than you may realise. Here's how.



• Summer Freak Program - Deload Week
  Rob Sinnott
  The serious training continues.

  Good stuff.
  

Ready to add your own opinion, workout log or training article? Just head over to the Forums, Training Logs, or swing by the Article Submissions page. They're fantastic ways to share your ideas.

NB : if you enjoy the articles, show the authors your appreciation by voting (using the Like, Digg and Retweet icons). Cheers.

Video : TredSled Sprints

Sprints on a treadmill? Yep - it's the TredSled.

Deal of the Week : %15 Discount on Ultimate Sandbag 'Strength' Package

I love sandbag training.

If you've ever thought about giving it a run, here's the perfect opportunity. Head over to buyultimatesandbag.com and grab one of the Ultimate Sandbag 'Strength' packages (2 x 35lb filler bags, 'Challenge Your Core' DVD, 'Rapid Results' Wall Map, USB t-shirt and Trainer Community Membership), and enter the coupon code 'bar' at checkout. The first 20 purchasers will receive a tasty %15 discount.

Seriously, if you've ever though about trying a little sandbag work, this is a fantastic way to get going.

NB : The discounted kits won't exactly be hanging around. If you're keen to save a dollar or three, get in early.

Coming Events

Twitterchat 68 - Fitness and Health Gadgets

I'm fascinated by fitness and health gadgets of all descriptions - they perfectly combine my strength-training and technology passions. Superb things.

This week we're taking a look at the many kinds of Fitness and Health Gadgets available, and how to use them in your training - for tracking your workouts, measuring bodyfat, analysing your blood and so on. Everything for keeping you performing at your peak in the gym, on the mat and during the competition. Fantastic.

Details -

Who : Strength-training fans
Topic : Fitness and Health Gadgets
When : Wed Jun 2, 9pm EDT (1am UTC)
How : include #sbgym in your tweets.

To see when it's on in your timezone, head over to the twitterchat calendar.

See you there.

Quick update on last week's twitterchat : Following the discussion on Protein there's been a stack of information flowing on the various protein sources (including both foods and supplements), whey vs casein (and the various mixes), milk consumption and so on.

Everyone's different, and your overall diet and training goals play enormous roles here. For everyone that asked though, my own approach is : 'real' foods the vast majority of the time (I follow a slightly modified Paleo diet) and a protein shake immediately after workouts. That combination seems to work well, in my case at least.

How about you - what's your own approach to protein consumption?

NB : If you'd like to be a guest on a future twitterchat, let me know. It's great to hear how other people are training.

Product Review : Ultimate Warrior Workouts - Fitness Secrets of the Martial Arts

A few weeks ago I mentioned Martin Rooney's latest offering, Ultimate Warrior Workouts. And as Fight Geek points out, it's absolutely superb.

Read on.

Exercise of the Week : Sandbag Get Up

These are superb (and much harder than they look, incidentally - give 'em a shot) - the sandbag version of the Turkish Get-up. Love 'em.

This Week on Straight to the Bar

I'm constantly amazed at just how much my training is influenced by the people on this site. Whether you're looking for a new piece of equipment, an unusual exercise variation or just an idea of how others approach things, you'll enjoy these :

• Jaw Lifting : What, Why and How
  Ryan Pitts
  How to get started with this wonderful feat.
  
• Deven's Training Log
  Deven
  Back work - good fun.
  

Ready to add your own opinion, workout log or training article? Just head over to the Forums, Training Logs, or swing by the Article Submissions page. They're fantastic ways to share your ideas.

NB : if you enjoy the articles, show the authors your appreciation by voting (using the Like, Digg and Retweet icons). Cheers.

Video : Kettlebell Juggling Faceoff

Another great clip from the Atomic Athletic Great Black Swamp Olde-Time Strongman Picnic. Logan Christopher and Andrew Durniat go head-to-head.

Training With : Battle Ropes

A few weeks ago we mentioned the Battle Ropes from MBody Strength - fantastic things.

I've been using them for a couple of days now (mainly for the pull-up and kettlebell swing variations seen in the video), and I have to say, I love them. A proper review shortly, but for now, definitely check them out.

Superb.

Coming Events

Twitterchat 67 - Protein

Protein : what is it, how much do you really need, how do you make sure you're getting enough?

This week we're taking a look at the many forms of Protein, how they relate to your training and your health overall. Helping to guide us through this fascinating world is Ty from The Protein Review. Fantastic.

Details -

Who : Strength-training fans
Topic : Protein
When : Wed May 26, 9pm EDT (1am UTC)
How : include #sbgym in your tweets.

To see when it's on in your timezone, head over to the twitterchat calendar.

See you there.

Quick update on last week's twitterchat : Following the discussion on Resistance Bands there's been a stack of information flowing on which bands to use, and how.

I personally favour the Iron Woody bands (which I freely admit, were the first ones I ever used; though I've since tested several others), and I've also heard great things about the Jump Stretch bands, and those from EliteFTS. Whichever ones you use, there are some great ways to use them. There are a few ideas here.

How about you - which bands do you use personally, and why?

NB : If you'd like to be a guest on a future twitterchat, let me know. It's great to hear how other people are training.

Product Review : KAOS Sports Bra

Although I'm well-placed to offer comments on much of the KAOS Komfort workout clothing range (it's great stuff, incidentally), I'm not exactly qualified to review products such as their sports bras.

Over to GoodyGirl77.

Exercise of the Week : Band Pull-Aparts

There were a number of superb resistance band exercises mentioned during the discussion last week, including the wonderfully simple Band Pull-Aparts. A great way to finish a serious yoke session.

This Week on Straight to the Bar

I'm constantly amazed at just how much my training is influenced by the people on this site. Whether you're looking for a new piece of equipment, an unusual exercise variation or just an idea of how others approach things, you'll enjoy these :

• Josh Hanagarne's Training Log
  Z-Health, Kettlebells and Bending. A great mix.
  
• Rob's Training Log
  Rob Sinnott
  More training goodness. Hard and heavy.
  

Ready to add your own opinion, workout log or training article? Just head over to the Forums, Training Logs, or swing by the Article Submissions page. They're fantastic ways to share your ideas.

NB : if you enjoy the articles, show the authors your appreciation by voting (using the Like, Digg and Retweet icons). Cheers.

Video : Underground Strength & Fitness

The Fight Geek is currently putting together a short course for Adult Education on training 'underground style'; here's the Keynote presentation which accompanies part 1.

Enjoy.

Training With : TRX Suspension Trainer

As I'm about to spend a bit of time on-the-road (doing a little family history research), I'm currently assembling a training-when-travelling kit. A kettlebell, a band or two and of course the TRX.

If you've never tried suspension training, here's an overview. No matter where you are, just hook it up and go.

Perfect.

Coming Events

Twitterchat 66 - Resistance Bands : Bands are superb things, for adjusting the strength curve of various exercises or use by themselves. Love them.

This week we're taking a look at the many, many ways to include Resistance Bands in your training - what to use, how to attach them and of course, hundreds of ways to put them to work. In the home gym, a commercial facility or on-the-road.

Fantastic.


Details -

Who : Strength-training fans
Topic : Resistance Bands
When : Wed May 19, 9pm EST (1am UTC)
How : include #sbgym in your tweets.

To see when it's on in your timezone, head over to the twitterchat calendar.

See you there.

Quick update on last week's twitterchat : Following the discussion on Kettlebell Training for Athletes there's been a stack of information flowing on which kettlebells to use, and why.

Without wishing to start any arguments, I personally feel most comfortable using the Dragon Door 'bells. If you're looking to pick up a new kettlebell or two, you'll find details of the Dragon Door products and many others listed here.

How about you - which kettlebells do you use personally, and why?

NB : If you'd like to be a guest on a future twitterchat, let me know. It's great to hear how other people are training.

Inspiration : Images of Strength

You may have noticed that there are quite a few new photos in the 'Images of Strength' collection in the Straight to the Bar sidebar. Photos of various athletes and strongmen; training, competing and performing. Good stuff.

Now it's your turn. I'm looking for several new images to add to this area, showing the fantastic strength-training community in all aspects of training and competition. And - if you're a professional Strongman/Strongwoman - performing.

If you'd like to strut your stuff in front of an incredible audience, just add your photos to the SttB Flickr Group. I'll copy them directly to the Images of Strength collection.

Cheers for that. The best of these images (and by 'best', I mean the ones I like the most) will appear randomly in the Images of Strength collection. It's a great way to get in front of a fantastic strength-training community.

Reading : Active Recovery Training

I've added another ebook to the list given to newsletter subscribers - Ty's Active Recovery Training.

As a thank-you to everyone who's already here, a complimentary copy. Enjoy.

Exercise of the Week : Rafter Pull-ups

Looking for a dose of grip work with your pull-ups? Have a go at these - much, much harder than they look. Love 'em.

NB : I love chinning work, and there is an almost endless list of ways to vary this simple exercise. If you're after a bit of variety, try the climbers', band-resisted and gorilla varieties (combination of chin-up and hanging knee raise). Good fun.

This Week on Straight to the Bar

I'm constantly amazed at just how much my training is influenced by the people on this site. Whether you're looking for a new piece of equipment, an unusual exercise variation or just an idea of how others approach things, you'll enjoy these :

• Bodyweight Training
  Various authors
  There have been some very interesting bodyweight exercises posted recently, including the superb Med Ball Pushup Switch. Take a look.
  
• Rob's Training Log
  Rob Sinnott
  Ready to train heavy? Great.
  

Ready to add your own opinion, workout log or training article? Just head over to the Forums, Training Logs, or swing by the Article Submissions page. They're fantastic ways to share your ideas.

NB : if you enjoy the articles, show the authors your appreciation by voting (using the Like, Digg and Retweet icons). Cheers.

Video : Can Bursting

Chris Rider demonstrates a spot of Can Bursting, a strength feat seldom seen yet always impressive. Love it.

Coming Events

Twitterchat 65 - Kettlebell Training for Athletes : Whether you're building strength, enjoying a little conditioning work or simply using them as convenient weights with handles - kettlebells are fantastic training tools.

This week we're taking a look at Kettlebell Training for Athletes - discussing the many, many ways to put kettlebells to work so they'll help you on the mat, platform, or sporting field. Helping us to navigate this fascinating world is Kettlebell Training Academy's Ajamu Bernard (@dakbellguy). Fantastic.


Details -

Who : Strength-training fans
Topic : Kettlebell Training for Athletes
When : Wed May 12, 9pm EDT (1am UTC)
How : include #sbgym in your tweets.

To see when it's on in your timezone, head over to the twitterchat calendar.

See you there.

Quick update on last week's twitterchat : Following the discussion on Performance-Enhancing Supplements I've received a stack of feedback on the topic of creatine. Cheers for all of that - very much appreciated.

Tony has put together a brief overview page here; explaining what it is, how it's used, which form he recommends and so on. If you're at all curious, it's a great place to start.

NB : If you'd like to be a guest on a future twitterchat, let me know. It's great to hear how other people are training.

Deal of the Week : 'Got Yoke?' T-shirt

For everyone that's been asking - it's finally happened. The new 'Got Yoke' t-shirts have arrived.

These contain some fantastic moisture management features, as well as featuring a distinctive design by Rory Hickman. It really is a perfect combination.

You'll find the order page here, or you can email me privately for bulk purchases. Cheers.

Watching : A-Z Climbing Podcast

Although I've been a fan of podcasts for years now, it's only in the last 12 months or so that I've focused on the 'video only' variety. And this week, I was lucky enough to stumble upon several training-related podcasts that are well worth a look.

Kicking things off (many more sites, newsletters and podcasts in this forum thread) is a podcast with an interesting twist - AZ Climbing. 26 climbing-focussed videos, one for each letter of the alphabet. Covering the many varieties of indoor and outdoor work.

Good stuff.

Exercise of the Week : Beaker Bench Press

Back in 2008 we were introduced to the idea of the Kettlebell Beaker - basically a series of bench presses with kettlebells hanging from the bar. There are a number of ways to vary this, and to incorporate the idea in other exercises (Justin Andrushko details several in Band Suspended Weight); and the most common is shown below.

If you're looking for a way to mix things up a bit, give it a shot. Good fun.

This Week on Straight to the Bar

I'm constantly amazed at just how much my training is influenced by the people on this site. Whether you're looking for a new piece of equipment, an unusual exercise variation or just an idea of how others approach things, you'll enjoy these :

• Lift Weights? So What!
  Logan Christopher
  There's a difference between lifting weights and exploring strength. Over to Logan.
  
• Health & Fitness Research
  Various authors
  There's been some fascinating research lately in the world of Health & Fitness - here's just a sample.
  

Ready to add your own opinion, workout log or training article? Just head over to the Forums, Training Logs, or swing by the Article Submissions page. They're fantastic ways to share your ideas.

NB : if you enjoy the articles, show the authors your appreciation by voting (using the Like, Digg and Retweet icons). Cheers.

Video : Battle Ropes

I love rope training, and this video shows just a few ways to put them to work. Good stuff.

Coming Events

Twitterchat 64 - Performance-Enhancing Supplements : Protein, caffeine, creatine - what do you have before, during and after your workout; specifically to squeeze the most out of the work you put in?

This week we're taking a look at Performance-Enhancing Supplements (legal ones of course) - what's currently used, the thinking behind them, and which ones are effective. Whether it's a pre-workout cup of coffee or a dose of HMB.

Helping us to navigate this fascinating world is Food & Fitness' own Anthony Paradis (@foodnfitness). Fantastic.


Details -

Who : Strength-training fans
Topic : Performance-Enhancing Supplements
When : Wed May 5, 9pm EDT (1am UTC)
How : include #sbgym in your tweets.

To see when it's on in your timezone, head over to the twitterchat calendar.

See you there.

Quick update on last week's twitterchat : I've been receiving a stack of positive feedback on the 'Kettlebell Training for Beginners' discussion, and it's greatly appreciated. And particular thanks to Jackie (aka Girlwithnoname) - was a great chat.

NB : If you'd like to be a guest on a future twitterchat, let me know. It's great to hear how other people are training.

Getting Ready For :
Ultimate Warrior Workouts - Fitness Secrets of the Martial Arts

To say I'm looking forward to this is an understatement.

I'll post a full review shortly (the book isn't actually available until tomorrow, but you can pre-order it here). In the meantime, here's a brief description of what's inside :

World-renowned fitness coach Martin Rooney will take you where no warrior has gone before. On an epic international quest, Rooney traveled to top-fight destinations around the globe to study and train under the last living masters in the eight core disciplines of Mixed Martial Arts. More than 1,000 full-color photos reveal hundreds of the original training secrets he discovered along the way, from the slopes of Japan's Mt. Fuji and the beaches of Brazil to the streets of Russia. With nearly fifty varieties of push-ups, dozens of kettlebell exercises, and hundreds of unique training techniques, Ultimate Warrior Workouts also offers:

• A complete six-month workout program
• Cutting-edge nutrition ADVICE and a sample diet plan
• "Warrior Challenges" to assess your fitness level
• The history and philosophy of the arts that comprise mixed martial arts

Fantastic.

Listening To : Endurance

What are you listening to?

I'm a huge fan of audiobooks - it's a fantastic way to increase your 'reading' time, as you can do it whilst doing other things - particularly the descriptions of explorations and discoveries from a range of athletes and adventurers.

Currently I'm re-reading (re-listening to, really) the book Endurance, by Alfred Lansing, which details Ernest Shackleton's incredible 1914 South Pole expedition. A brilliant read.

How about you - what's on your 'books to listen to' list?

Exercise of the Week : Box Jump from Foam

Looking for a challenging way to vary your jump training? Try a few of these. Good fun.