Results matching “log”

Monday, 28 Jun 2010 - Issues

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 :
  • Mike 'The Machine' BruceMy friend The Human Vice.
    Nice piece on a seriously strong guy - Pat 'The Human Vice' Povalitis.
  • Scott Andrew BirdThe 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.



Monday, 21 Jun 2010 - Issues

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 :

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.



Monday, 14 Jun 2010 - Issues

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 :

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.

Monday, 7 Jun 2010 - Issues

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 :

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.



Results! That is the one thing that all of us care about, whether as a coach, athlete, or fitness enthusiast. This is a large reason that so many people have turned away from the supposed "high-tech" training tools and have sought out some of the time tested training that the strongest humans in the world used. This has given rise to grip training, stones, logs, kettlebells, extreme bodyweight training, and most recently sandbag training.
As a strength coach for the past fifteen years I have found myself in a similar position as many who want to find the fastest ways to strength. This led me down the road of examining many different training methods, and one that has always intrigued me was sandbags.

For years sandbags were used by athletic programs that simply could not afford to supply large amounts of athletes with strength training tools. Tell an athlete they have to lift a sandbag and they already know it is going to be more difficult than a bar or dumbbell, their heads sink as they know they are just flat out hard! Yet, even if something is difficult, it doesn't automatically make it beneficial.

I found it intriguing that sandbags had no definitive system of training. It appears that EVERYTHING from medicine balls, body weight, to kettlebells have a system of training. Having a system is important in developing meaning behind training and exercises, without it things remain random and training is stagnant and without purpose.

Why sandbags? Having competed in team sports for over a decade, and iron sports such as Strongman and Olympic lifting, I found sandbags provided some unique benefits for all types of athletes.

The Bridge into Strongman

Having lifted stones, logs, and lots of odd implements, sandbags still remain one of the most challenging implements to train with because of the constantly shifting load that makes sandbags so difficult. I first used sandbags when access to standard Strongman tools were impossible. It just seemed obvious that sandbags hit the body in a different way than your standard weight room tools, it was as though sandbags hit all our weak links. Then when I actually got to train with Strongman tools and events, nothing compared with the challenge that lifting heavy sandbags provided on the back, hips, arms, legs, and abs...YES, truly the whole body! There seemed to be something there that could be more applicable to people beyond Strongman, but what was it?

Strongman is known for lifting odd objects, but the angles and movements that could be created even go beyond the standard Strongman protocols. One of my greatest disappointments with the renewed excitement of sandbag training is the lack of innovation people are using in their training.

Olympic Lifting Excuses

Hang around strength coaches long enough and you will undoubtedly get into the "should or should not" Olympic lift argument. For those that are typically in the "do not" camp, it is the fact that Olympic lifting is a very specific sport and technique is challenging to pick up. Some coaches are fearful they will spend more time teaching technique than receive the benefit of Olympic lifting.

Sandbags remove that concern as cleaning, jerking, and other Olympic "style" lifts can be performed quite easily so more time is spent training than practicing. Some may argue that kettlebells do the same, however, kettlebells are different as they typically don't hold true to the triple extension that occurs in Olympic lifting which is what makes it such a powerful training tool for athletes. Sandbags do hold true to the triple extension and offer more variety in exercises that can be created that can replicate the unpredictable nature of sport itself. We now can not only perform the standard pulls and explosive exercises but perform them in rotation and other angles that happens in many sports!

Following on from his highly successful first book, Training for Warriors, Martin Rooney has delivered another informative and useful training resource for fighters - Ultimate Warrior Workouts.

The premise of the book is simple - Martin set out out on a world-wide trek to investigate and document the strength and conditioning practices of the most influential martial arts that are used in MMA. He travelled to the birthplaces of these martial arts and trained his ass off with their elite practitioners. Great idea, huh?


The fight-styles that Martin focuses on in the book are BJJ, Muay Thai, Wrestling, Boxing, Kickboxing, Judo, Sambo and Karate. It's easy to see the logic behind these choices - the first four are obvious--techniques from these disciplines make up the majority of the MMA technical syllabus. And the later four have been used successfully by a number of MMA champions.

With this book Martin set himself a number of goals ...


  1. To record and preserve the physical training techniques of MMA's component martial arts for future fighters.

  2. To briefly outline the history and philosophies associated with each martial art.

  3. To demonstrate specific training exercises that are used by their top practitioners.

  4. To provide strength and conditioning benchmarks specifically tailored to the needs of fighters.

  5. To outline a comprehensive training program to help fighters achieve (and surpass) these benchmarks.


Did he achieve all of these goals? Yes :)

Now rather than go into a detailed account of the structure and content of Ultimate Warrior Workouts, I'll take a look at my four favorite features of the book - the Warrior Challenges, style-specific exercises, exercise variations and partner drills.

Warrior Challenges

An underlying premise of Ultimate Warrior Workouts is that there are certain levels of fitness and specific physical requirements for each martial art. With that in mind, Martin provides a set of exercise tests, that he calls 'Warrior Challenges'. Along with these challenges, he outlines a set of benchmarks that can be used to rate your strength and fitness progress. Each challenge has ten levels (starting at minimal physical requirements up to elite level status). The challenges themselves revolve around various bodyweight exercises done for time along with three max strength exercises (deadlift, bench press and weighted pull-up). So the goal is to achieve 10th level status on all the challenges, and consequently develop a 'well rounded' strength and conditioning base to power your specific fighting skill-set.

Each challenge 'favors' a particular martial art. Taken as a whole, the full set of Warrior Challenges provide a simple and effective way to pinpoint the 'gaps' in a MMA fighter's strength and conditioning. For example, I'm into Muay Thai, so it's no surprise that I scored very highly on one of the challenges geared towards muay thai conditioning (a speed kicking drill). However, when it came to a more BJJ-oriented challenge, I scored MUCH lower. No prizes for guessing what I'll be emphasizing in my training over the next few months, eh?

I actually think portraying strength and fitness benchmarks as 'Warrior Challenges' was a stroke of genius. A fighter is a highly competitive animal. By issuing a 'Warriors Challenge', Martin Rooney is basically waving a red flag at a bull. Challenges motivate fighters! So bringing measurable and graduated strength and fitness challenges into the gym is a great strategy to keep fighters motivated and hungry for training :)

Style-based Exercises

Another great feature of the book is the insiders-look at how other martial art styles' train! As mentioned, I come from a Muay Thai background, so I was familiar with most of the exercises Martin outlined in the Muay Thai section. However, I've had very little exposure to wrestling or Sambo, so I was fascinated to read about the exercises and strategies utilized by them.

Indeed, a key lesson we can learn from this book - and Martin's whole approach to training - is to be willing and open to learn from others. Fighters must be willing to learn from other fighters, other styles, and other training methods. Does that mean boxers should implement every exercise a kickboxer uses? Or a BJJ fighter should utilize every training tool a muay thai fighter uses? No. But we should be open to learn from others, and be prepared to adopt and adapt any relevant concepts, strategies, tools or exercises that can potentially enhance our own training.

Monday, 31 May 2010 - Issues

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 :

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.



Monday, 24 May 2010 - Issues

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 :

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

Battle Ropes: GrippersA 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.

Iron Woody BandsQuick 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.



Monday, 17 May 2010 - Issues

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 :

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


Fitness Anywhere VideoAs 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.

Russian Kettlebell 125x125Quick 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.



Monday, 10 May 2010 - Issues

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 :

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.



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