Lift Big by Bracing, Not Arching
As far as current fitness debates are concerned the argument over which is better for long-term progress in the gym – bracing vs. arching – is right on par with people arguing over whether or not a potato is considered “Paleo, (1),” whether or not high- rep Olympic lifting (ALA: CrossFit) has any efficacy (2), or figuring out which is smarter: Tracy Anderson or a ham sandwich (3)?
- Um, it’s a freaking potato! It grows in the ground. Newsflash: That broccoli you’re eating didn’t exist in the Paleolithic era, and I know for a fact Gronk and his friends didn’t crush “Paleo” chocolate brownies back in the day you uppity douche.
- Sorry, but I’d trust a coach who advocates high-rep Olympic lifting about as much as I’d trust Formula One racer you drives a Prius.
- Come on, do we really need to debate this one?
Nevertheless, the growing dichotomy between bracing and arching – especially as it relates to hoisting heavy loads and how it parlays into optimal performance – has gained steamed within the last few years.
As a coach and as someone who trains a wide array of athletes and clients for newbie status all the way up into the professional ranks, and as someone who’s job it is to keep people healthy for the long haul, I can say that I tend to lean more towards the camp who advocates bracing.
In my latest article for T-Nation I explain why.
Comments for This Entry
josh
Tony, this article was excellent and lead me to read some other stuff on breathing and bracing. I realized that I've been doing both poorly for a long time. Thanks this and your blog. Keep up the great work!November 7, 2013 at 4:58 pm |
TonyGentilcore
Glad it helped Josh!November 8, 2013 at 9:07 am |
Luke Doolittle
Love this article. And I've found that the focus on the ribcage / spinal organization is great for highlighting genuine mobility issues, particularly if you use in conjunction with the front squat.November 8, 2013 at 5:52 pm |
Chris
Hey Tony, when you're writing for T-Nation do you pick the incredibly veiny pictures of muscly dudes or do they do that for you? haha :PNovember 12, 2013 at 11:14 pm |
TonyGentilcore
Nope, that's not me.November 14, 2013 at 7:48 am |