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In a podcast interview with Tom Campitelli about his journey to becoming a Starting Strength Coach, you mention that as someone gets stronger, he naturally becomes an informal coach because others begin to approach him for training suggestions. I’m wired as a coach by upbringing and personality, and would love to help others get stronger, but I am also convinced that someone who knows a little is often more dangerous than someone who knows nothing. Based on comments you’ve made, it seems you agree.
In your experience, how much training does someone need under his belt before he becomes useful in offering advice to others, and is there any way to accelerate or optimize this process (e.g., by studying certain things)?
I'd say that when you have finished a novice progression you're in a position to report on your findings. That's more help that most people ever have a chance to obtain.
I am a 28 year old Marine veteran (proud to have served and humbled by the company I kept) who recently began the Starting Strength program with my wife. With the gains we have seen mentally and physically in our time we feel like strength training is our new ancient Chinese secret. It is beyond effective, especially when compared with other popular and previously attempted workout programs, systems and services. In retrospect, even our gains during our time spent with Crossfit in its various iterations over the years boiled down to barbell training with progressively more challenging weights.
On a personal level, though, strength training has helped me manage my PTSD and other service connected disabilities on an amazing level. Getting under the bar awakens that warrior spirit that my transition to the civilian world squelched, and gives me new purpose and clear targets to aim for. I feel, deeply, like many more veterans and disabled veterans (actually, EVERYONE) could benefit greatly from the power and personal improvement that comes from strength training; however, I am currently a novice at best.
I do not expect easy answers, but rather a critique of my current course and any suggestions you might offer.
Maintenance and Training: A Focused Pedantic Rebuttal to Rippetoe –Jonathon Sullivan
The New Fitness Industry –Mark Rippetoe
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