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 :
Gem From The Vault :

• Gem From The Vault : Starting Your Fitness Journey - 10 Things to Consider
  Scott Andrew Bird | Follow @scottbird
  Ready to transform yourself? Perfect.

  
  



• Looking At : Jan 13, 2019
  Scott Andrew Bird | Follow @scottbird
  What's been going on this week? Quite a lot actually.

  
  

Over to you. I'd love to hear what you think : leave your comments on the above articles, and share them with your friends/colleagues/clients and so on.

NB : If you're keen to do a little fitness writing and would like to submit your own piece for Straight to the Bar, get in touch.

Video : The Easiest Way To Get Stronger On The Bench Press (Omar Isuf)

Nice one.

Gymchat 278 - TBA

We're still finalising the details for this week's discussion. I'll post them on the blog (and Twitter, Google+ etc) shortly.

In the meantime, take a look at some of the previous episodes of the show - (there's an example below, and a full list here). And if you've got any questions or comments on the various topics discussed, we'd love to hear them. Just leave a note below the video.

Kirk Fontaine.

NB : if you'd like to take part in a future episode - either as an interviewee, or as a guest host - just drop us a line. Love hearing how everyone else trains.

Tip of the Week: Fix Your Feet

Each week we publish a number of tips and techniques via Twitter, the blog; and now the newsletter. Wherever you are, there's always a way to improve what you're doing.

This tip is from Josh Hewett's excellent 'Bulletproof Your Body' series. The real benefits of including your feet in your training.

Over to Josh :

You need to gradually strengthen your feet and slowly introduce them to greater range of motion. Walking barefoot on soft sand or grass is a great way to start... plus it feels good! If you have access to a beach or a well manicured lawn, slowly progress from walking barefoot for a few minutes at a time and working up to a longer duration, before introducing any more challenging barefoot activities.

For walking on solid surfaces such as concrete, I suggest you wear appropriate footwear that will provide minimal support while still allowing for greater natural movement of your feet.

Good stuff. Note that this is only a snippet from the full piece - swing by Josh' blog for the entire article [.pdf]. A great read.

Checking Out : The Matrix PowerWatch II (Smart Watch)

This is the second generation of the Matrix PowerWatch - a health + fitness-tracking smartwatch which charges automatically as you put it to work (via your body's 'spare' heat and any ambient light).

And yes, it connects to existing health services like Apple Health and Google Fit. Very keen to try one out.

A spot of video :

The Matrix PowerWatch II.

Rather than trying to explain how it works, here it is in action :

Good stuff Bret, looks great.

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 :

• Gem From The Vault : Straight to the Grip Contest Part V - The No-sets
  'Napalm' Jedd Johnson | Follow @jeddjohnson
  What do you do when you're not allowed to pre-close the gripper?

  
  

• Looking At : Jan 6, 2019
  Scott Andrew Bird | Follow @scottbird
  What's been going on this week? Quite a lot actually.

  
  

Over to you. I'd love to hear what you think : leave your comments on the above articles, and share them with your friends/colleagues/clients and so on.

NB : If you're keen to do a little fitness writing and would like to submit your own piece for Straight to the Bar, get in touch.

Video : Beginner Ab Workout (5 Minutes!)

Just getting started in the world of fitness? This is a great routine to add.

Gymchat 278 - TBA

We're still finalising the details for this week's discussion. I'll post them on the blog (and Twitter, Google+ etc) shortly.

In the meantime, take a look at some of the previous episodes of the show - (there's an example below, and a full list here). And if you've got any questions or comments on the various topics discussed, we'd love to hear them. Just leave a note below the video.

Maik Wiedenbach.

NB : if you'd like to take part in a future episode - either as an interviewee, or as a guest host - just drop us a line. Love hearing how everyone else trains.

Tip of the Week: Knee Rehabilitation Progression

Each week we publish a number of tips and techniques via Twitter, Google+, the blog; and now the newsletter. Wherever you are, there's always a way to improve what you're doing.

This tip is from Josh Hewett's excellent 'Bulletproof Your Body' series. The 'right' way to fix your knees after surgery.

Over to Josh :

Good stuff. Note that this is only a snippet from the full piece - swing by Josh' blog for the entire article. A great read.

Checking Out : DIY Gym Equipment Guide (Catalyst Athletics)

The Catalyst Athletics DIY Gym Equipment Guide.

As you may know, I'm a huge fan of DIY Gym Equipment - whether for financial reasons, or just that you like building things (often both).

This ebook details the plans for constructing just a few of the items you may want in the home gym. Everything from racks & benches to storage for the 'bells & plates.

The Catalyst Athletics DIY Gym Equipment Guide.

Rather than trying to explain how it works, here it is in action :

Good stuff Bret, looks great.

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 :

• Gem From The Vault : The Zercher Squat
  Scott Andrew Bird | Follow @scottbird
  Superb exercise.

  
  

• Looking At : Dec 30, 2018
  Scott Andrew Bird | Follow @scottbird
  What's been going on this week? Quite a lot actually.

  
  

Over to you. I'd love to hear what you think : leave your comments on the above articles, and share them with your friends/colleagues/clients and so on.

NB : If you're keen to do a little fitness writing and would like to submit your own piece for Straight to the Bar, get in touch.

Video : Fitness Goals For 2019

At this time of year, a lot of us take the opportunity to set a few fitness-related goals for the coming 12 months. If you're not quite sure where to start, check out this video.

Some great suggestions.

Gymchat 278 - TBA

We're still finalising the details for this week's discussion. I'll post them on the blog (and Twitter, Google+ etc) shortly.

In the meantime, take a look at some of the previous episodes of the show - (there's an example below, and a full list here). And if you've got any questions or comments on the various topics discussed, we'd love to hear them. Just leave a note below the video.

Troy Pesola.

NB : if you'd like to take part in a future episode - either as an interviewee, or as a guest host - just drop us a line. Love hearing how everyone else trains.

Tip of the Week: Fix Your Feet

Each week we publish a number of tips and techniques via Twitter, Google+, the blog; and now the newsletter. Wherever you are, there's always a way to improve what you're doing.

This tip is from Josh Hewett's excellent 'Bulletproof Your Body' series. The real benefits of including your feet in your training.

Over to Josh :

You need to gradually strengthen your feet and slowly introduce them to greater range of motion. Walking barefoot on soft sand or grass is a great way to start... plus it feels good! If you have access to a beach or a well manicured lawn, slowly progress from walking barefoot for a few minutes at a time and working up to a longer duration, before introducing any more challenging barefoot activities.

For walking on solid surfaces such as concrete, I suggest you wear appropriate footwear that will provide minimal support while still allowing for greater natural movement of your feet.

Good stuff. Note that this is only a snippet from the full piece - swing by Josh' blog for the entire article [.pdf]. A great read.

Checking Out : Roidmi P8S (Air Purifier)

The Roidmi P8S is an air purifier, designed specifically for use in small, enclosed areas(cars in particular). If you spend a fair bit of time on the road, it's ideal.

A spot of video :

Look forward to testing it out. The Roidmi P8S.

Rather than trying to explain how it works, here it is in action :

Good stuff Bret, looks great.

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 :

• The Future of Fitness : Health & Fitness Predictions for 2019
  Scott Andrew Bird | Follow @scottbird
  A few thoughts.

  
  

• Looking At : Dec 23, 2018
  Scott Andrew Bird | Follow @scottbird
  What's been going on this week? Quite a lot actually.

  
  

Over to you. I'd love to hear what you think : leave your comments on the above articles, and share them with your friends/colleagues/clients and so on.

NB : If you're keen to do a little fitness writing and would like to submit your own piece for Straight to the Bar, get in touch.

Video : Santa's Christmas Fitness Transformation

Merry Christmas.

Gymchat 278 - TBA

We're still finalising the details for this week's discussion. I'll post them on the blog (and Twitter, Google+ etc) shortly.

In the meantime, take a look at some of the previous episodes of the show - (there's an example below, and a full list here). And if you've got any questions or comments on the various topics discussed, we'd love to hear them. Just leave a note below the video.

Kirk Fontaine.

NB : if you'd like to take part in a future episode - either as an interviewee, or as a guest host - just drop us a line. Love hearing how everyone else trains.

Tip of the Week: Stretching Causes Weakness

Each week we publish a number of tips and techniques via Twitter, Google+, the blog; and now the newsletter. Wherever you are, there's always a way to improve what you're doing.

This tip is from Josh Hewett's excellent 'Bulletproof Your Body' series. The impact of stretching on both strength and injury.

Over to Josh :

Exercise physiologists have concluded that passive stretching not only has no effect on preventing injuries, but it can actually make you even more likely to get hurt. But I didn't take their word on it... I've experienced the effects of passive vs. active stretching first hand. I've also worked with biomechanics specialists who use Applied Kinesiology muscle testing as a reproducible way to measure muscle strength and responsiveness. They demonstrated that in almost every case a passive stretch is performed the muscles will test weak after. On the other hand, active isometric exercise will improve muscle activation.

Good stuff. Note that this is only a snippet from the full piece - swing by Josh' blog for the entire article. A great read.

Checking Out : Snore Circle (Anti-Snoring Muscle Stimulator)

The Snore Circle (and this is the 5th generation of the device) is a device which attaches to the neck, listens for snoring and opens the airways accordingly. The video will show you what I mean :

I don't snore personally, but would love to hear your feedback if you do - and test out this particular device. Get in touch.

Snore Circle.

Rather than trying to explain how it works, here it is in action :

Good stuff Bret, looks great.

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 :

• Athlete's Guide to Injury Recovery
  Alex Eriksson | Follow @anabolic_health
  Managing pain and hastening the process, naturally.

  
  

• Looking At : Dec 16, 2018
  Scott Andrew Bird | Follow @scottbird
  What's been going on this week? Quite a lot actually.

  
  

Over to you. I'd love to hear what you think : leave your comments on the above articles, and share them with your friends/colleagues/clients and so on.

NB : If you're keen to do a little fitness writing and would like to submit your own piece for Straight to the Bar, get in touch.

Video : Lean vs Strong (Omar Isuf)

Can you ever be too lean? If you care primarily about strength, yes.

Gymchat 278 - TBA

We're still finalising the details for this week's discussion. I'll post them on the blog (and Twitter, Google+ etc) shortly.

In the meantime, take a look at some of the previous episodes of the show - (there's an example below, and a full list here). And if you've got any questions or comments on the various topics discussed, we'd love to hear them. Just leave a note below the video.

Matt Hunt.

NB : if you'd like to take part in a future episode - either as an interviewee, or as a guest host - just drop us a line. Love hearing how everyone else trains.

Tip of the Week: Setting a Gripper

Each week we publish a number of tips and techniques via Twitter, Google+, the blog; and now the newsletter. Wherever you are, there's always a way to improve what you're doing.

This tip comes to us from the incredible Jedd 'Napalm' Johnson, and takes the form of a superb video. Enjoy.

Incidentally, if you want to learn more techniques like this, check out Jedd's own The Grip Authority.

Fantastic site.

Checking Out : Dinosaur Strength and Power Courses (PDFs)

Dinosaur Strength and Power Courses.

The list has just grown a little longer with the Dinosaur Strength and Power Courses - a series of short courses over on Brooks Kubik's site.

You'll find them here :

Dinosaur Strength and Power Courses.

Rather than trying to explain how it works, here it is in action :

Good stuff Bret, looks great.

You don't have to be a genius to know that injuries often go with exercise activities. And so, if you've been spending much time training or competing as of late, you might as well learn how to handle injuries if they do happen.

Specifically, you must familiarize yourself with the various ways of managing pain and facilitating recovery--particularly those that are natural, as they're generally cheap and non-invasive. 

Get More Vitamin C

Vitamin C is crucial in the production of collagen--the key structural protein of our connective tissues. Having sufficient supply of this micronutrient not only enhances collagen synthesis but also improves tensile strength.

Fight Inflammation

Yes, there's such a thing as a healthy amount of inflammation. After all, the body responds to the presence of swelling by repairing the damage that caused it.

However, prolonged periods of inflammation puts the immune system in high gear. This often leads to even more swelling throughout the injured area, which in turn inhibits healing.

You'll have to make inflammation reduction a priority if you want to ease your pain and speed up your recovery. Cut back on sugar, oil, and processed food as these tend to worsen inflammation. 

Load Up on Protein

Protein is necessary for repairing damaged muscle fibres. 

Supplement your daily intake with one to two extra servings of protein. Better yet, aim to consume at least one gram of protein for every kilogram of body weight. 

Although that may seem difficult, it's often as easy as adding more fish, eggs, low-fat dairy, chicken, or plant proteins to what you usually consume each day. 

Rest Your Injury

People often underestimate how proper rest affects the healing process. Well, resting helps prevent further complications of injuries. It also gives connective tissues time to rebuild and gain strength. 

If you've been following a certain exercise routine before getting injured, just stay off of it as you heal up. You may switch to a less demanding workout to lessen the strain--but only once you're ready.

Try Some Topicals

Natural topical treatments (e.g. menthol, camphor, and capsaicin) provide quick relief whenever you're struggling with pain. These are often just as good as their over-the-counter counterparts. 

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 :

• Gem From The Vault : Visualisation
  Scott Andrew Bird | Follow @scottbird
  See it first.

  
  

• Looking At : Dec 9, 2018
  Scott Andrew Bird | Follow @scottbird
  What's been going on this week? Quite a lot actually.

  
  

Over to you. I'd love to hear what you think : leave your comments on the above articles, and share them with your friends/colleagues/clients and so on.

NB : If you're keen to do a little fitness writing and would like to submit your own piece for Straight to the Bar, get in touch.

Video : Complete Guide To Intermittent Fasting (Thomas DeLauer)

I get a lot of questions on Intermittent Fasting - here's a full guide on how to go about things.

Gymchat 278 - TBA

We're still finalising the details for this week's discussion. I'll post them on the blog (and Twitter, Google+ etc) shortly.

In the meantime, take a look at some of the previous episodes of the show - (there's an example below, and a full list here). And if you've got any questions or comments on the various topics discussed, we'd love to hear them. Just leave a note below the video.

Chas Melichar.

NB : if you'd like to take part in a future episode - either as an interviewee, or as a guest host - just drop us a line. Love hearing how everyone else trains.

Tip of the Week: License Plate Tearing Technique

Each week we publish a number of tips and techniques via Twitter, Google+, the blog; and now the newsletter. Wherever you are, there's always a way to improve what you're doing.

This tip comes to us from performing Strongman Chris Rider, and is from his superb article Tearing A License Plate. Enjoy.

Following a thorough description of the safety requirements for performing this feat (and it really can be a dangerous one, so proceed carefully), comes the basic technique involved. Over to Chris :

Tear it up.

Now that we have ourselves protected, it's time to grab the plate. I personally like to tear plates at chest level, and that is the method I am going to discuss. As a dry run without a plate, place your dominant hand in a hammer style grip. Place the pinky side of that hand just above the bottom of the sternum. Now place the other fist in the same manner below the dominant one so you have the thumb side of the non-dominant and the pinky side of the dominant meeting. Squeeze as hard as you can and push your hands in opposite directions with the top hand going slightly upward and the bottom hand going slightly downward. If you push straight through, the potential for being cut dramatically increases.

Want more? No problem. Head over to the original article, and watch the video below to see it in action. Beautiful.

Checking Out : Fasciawear (Workout Clothing)

Although I'm somewhat skeptical about some of the claims made, I'm still keen to try one out (the deliveries are currently scheduled for March 2019).

Fasciawear.

Rather than trying to explain how it works, here it is in action :

Good stuff Bret, looks great.