Who Am I? Carl Raghavan, SSC | March 27, 2024 It’s not just a kickass Jackie Chan movie. Who am I? There are 5 types of trainees (credit to Andy Baker here, who brought this idea to my attention). Lifters, closet bodybuilders, pros/athletes, “Don’t weaken,” and special pops. However, there’s a little more than meets the eye here: it’s not about simply putting everyone neatly into a box... Continue reading
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
