Primal Training Jim Steel | September 27, 2023 Basic, raw strength has always appealed to me, a sort of casual super-strength that someone who is really “raw strong” can display without needing a bunch of stuff to help them. I always thought that it would be super cool to be able to walk into any gym wearing a shirt, shorts, and shoes, and lift heavy weights. No straps, wraps, sleeves, or belt needed. Continue reading
Pulling Mechanics: Hip Position Mark Rippetoe | September 20, 2023 The mechanics of pulling a barbell off the floor have been discussed rather thoroughly in the Blue Book...[including] the difference between snatches, cleans, and heavy deadlifts. There are profound mechanical differences between the lifts that involve balance, back angle, and acceleration, and as a result the three lifts produce different training effects. It behooves the coach to understand these things so that training the pull can be accomplished efficiently. Continue reading
Fear in Barbell Training (and How to Overcome it) Steve Ross, SSC | September 13, 2023 Sooner or later, a time will come when the weight on your back becomes terrifying – and the fear of failure or even injury can be paralyzing. I've seen lifters literally freeze on the platform, re-rack a heavy bar, and not attempt a rep they aren't sure they can complete. Continue reading
The Value of Apprenticeship Steve Ross, SSC | September 06, 2023 As a personal trainer in an industry-standard machine-based gym, it takes a long time to a build a barbell clientele on your own, and most trainers will never get to a sufficient number. When you start as an apprentice at a Starting Strength facility and the clients are already there, all you have to do is show up and learn. Continue reading
The Inappropriate Use of the Rack Pull Mark Rippetoe | August 30, 2023 I have noticed an increasingly common problem in barbell gyms, that I attribute primarily to laziness. Yes, the rack pull exercise is easier to do than the full pull off the floor. Yes, it's easier to get into a good lumbar extension... Continue reading
