Weight Loss for the Lifter Robert Santana, PhD, RD, SSC | March 06, 2024 In a country where nearly half of the population suffers from excess adiposity, it is only reasonable that many of its citizens are interested in reversing this trend. Excess adiposity, or “fatness” as most of us know it, is a complex first world issue that has led many people towards voluntary physical activity, exercise, and training. The interplay between adiposity and strength training is one that is poorly understood in the mainstream culture. Continue reading
Squat Depth Mark Rippetoe | February 28, 2024 The more weight you can squat to the correct depth, the stronger you are. It really is that simple. But when is a “squat” not a squat? When it is not below parallel – at the proper depth and therefore the proper range of motion to satisfy the purpose of the exercise. Partial squats are not squats because they do not work the maximum possible muscle mass through the longest effective range of motion, thus increasing strength. Continue reading
A Lifter's Guide to Travel Carl Raghavan, SSC | February 07, 2024 When I first mentioned my ambitious plan of traveling the world and continuing to train, people instantly doubted me. If you know a little bit about me, you’ll know those are fighting words – especially when my training is at stake. It only fueled my motivation to prove the naysayers wrong and crush all-time PRs. Continue reading
Back Angle and Spinal Position Mark Rippetoe | February 06, 2024 This is a rather fundamental issue for many inexperienced trainees, especially those people who are not gifted athletes with the natural ability to use their bodies optimally. Let's discuss the differences between the two, the reasons why they are important, and how to best clarify the procedures for using the back safely and efficiently under a heavy load. Continue reading
A Better Down, A Better Up Bruce Trout, SSC | January 31, 2024 There are many different errors one might make while pressing the bar, either overhead or from the bench: poor eye gaze direction, too wide or narrow a grip, no leg drive, driving your ass up off the bench, and the list goes on. As coaches, it is our job to see which issues are happening, order them from most to least important, and instruct or “cue” the lifter to success. Continue reading