Posts in "Exercise Technique"

Everything and Nothing Causes Low Back Pain

The topic of low back pain (LBP) – how to assess it, diagnose it, and how to treat it – can be a controversial one. I italicized the word “can” because I don’t feel it’s all that controversial. Cauliflower as an option for pizza crust or Zach being chosen as the bachelor on the current season of… Read more

Should You Use Straps When Deadlifting?

Lifting Straps. Yes, No, Maybe So? Starring at the barbell on the floor I couldn’t help but think to myself, “holy shit that’s a lot of weight.” Also, “I hope I don’t shit my spleen.” The year: 2004. The place: Albany, NY, at some random Golds Gym. I was visiting my sister and her family… Read more

The Real vs. BS Hip Flexor Stretch

I firmly believe static stretching is often over-prescribed; an easy default recommendation for some fitness professionals too lazy to dig a little deeper. “Tight” hamstrings? Go stretch those bad boys. “Tight” hip flexors? Better go stretch! Bad hair day? Yup, you need to stretch. SPOILER ALERT: 👇👇 this is not the correct way to stretch your… Read more

Textbook Technique and Why it Doesn’t Exist

It’s not lost on me that the title of this post will raise some eyebrows. The title shouldn’t be taken too literally, because I do feel there are ideal approaches, methodologies, and “rules” to consider when coaching any lift in the weight room. That said, when it comes to exercise technique (or human movement in… Read more

The Bar Every Gym Should Have: Safety Squat Bar

When Dean Somerset & I created the Complete Shoulder & Hip Blueprint and the (Even More) Complete Shoulder and Hip Blueprint (both currently on sale for the next 72 hours at 40% off their regular price…wink wink, nudge nudge) our goal was to provide a resource for people to better connect the dots between assessment… Read more

2 Side Plank Drills to Perform That Don’t Have the Words Side Plank In Them

I’m not here to hate on the side plank. Truth be told: It’s a rare occurrence that I start working with someone and (s)he can perform it well. It’s a staple exercise with myriad benefits in both rehab and traditional strength training to target the core musculature – particularly the obliques. Too, it’s also no… Read more

1-Minute Deadlift Tip: Connect the Barbell to Your Lats

Connect the Barbell to Your Lats Admittedly, this seems a bit strange to say given we have two HANDS to grab onto the barbell with. However the LATS are a key player in “connecting” us to the barbell during deadlifts. It ensures more full-body tension, but also hands (👈 HA, see what I did there?)… Read more

Top 3 Single Leg Exercises For Yoked Ass Legs

Coincidentally enough I choose the picture for today’s guest post before actually reading it.  Oops, a minor editorial mistake. You see, as you’ll learn below, placing a barbell on your back during single leg exercises – while not a wrong strategy to partake – does have a distinct disadvantage. HINT: More load isn’t always the… Read more