mackoflower@123rf.comCategoriesExercises You Should Be Doing rant

Porcelain Post: Results is a Battle of Repetition

NOTE: the term “Porcelain Post” was invented by Brian Patrick Murphy and Pete Dupuis. Without getting into the specifics, it describes a post that can be read in the same time it takes you to go #2.

Huh, I guess that was more specific than I thought.

Enjoy.

Results is a Battle of Repetition

My friend Adam Bornstein has always been a voice of reason for me. He has always referenced the word “repetition” when it comes to manifesting results. Not surprisingly it’s always been something I’ve alluded to as well:

Adam has also always noted that his most successful clients (both in person and distance based) – the ones whom he’d use as a walking advertisement for his services – were the ones who stuck with him for a minimum of 1-3 years.

This is not to suggest that those people who only decided to stick around for a month or two (or nine) didn’t receive any benefit or reach their goals in working with Adam. I’m sure many did, because he’s a rock-star coach.

Rather, his message was to demonstrate a hard truth for many to swallow.

It’s the long-game, and consistency with doing the same things over, and over, and over, and over again that will usually pan out in your favor.

Those people (or clients) who stick to their guns, hold themselves accountable, and make the time to prioritize their health/fitness over the course of many, many weeks/months/better yet, years, are the ones who do very well.

And, honestly, as much as I feel exercise variety is overrated, it’s not even about always doing the monotonous stuff consistently. I do feel learning the basics are important, and taking the time to master them is never a bad thing. The basics should, more often than not, serve as the foundation of any program.

Having said that: I also understand there comes a point and time when some people would rather swallow live bees than perform another Goblet squat.

However, and this is a big however, the more cogent word to focus on in this particular discussion is “stuff.”

Doing “stuff” consistently – whether it’s CrossFit, powerlifting, taking group exercise classes, or pantless Zumba pillow-fighting (<— make it happen Equinox) – and doing it for a very long time, is almost always going to result in some pretty phenomenal things happening.

The key, though, is to START. Stop making excuses, stop reading articles, stop sending emails to fitness pros asking what you should do. Just start. And then, don’t stop. You’ll win the battle.

gajus@123rf.comCategoriesUncategorized

A Fit Pro’s #1 Super Power?

Whether we’re talking about personal trainers, strength & conditioning coaches, physical therapists, athletic trainers, group exercise instructors, yoga & pilates instructors, or, I don’t know, bomb sniffing dolphin trainers1, conventional wisdom tells us that in each example every single one of those professionals would have a strong background in anatomy, kinesiology, exercise physiology, assessment, exercise prescription, exercise execution, manual therapy skills, human movement, and on the 0.001% chance that someone who trains dolphins is actually reading this…mammalogy.

Also, I am assuming one also needs to be a proficient swimmer.

Needless to say, sure, in order to separate yourself from the masses it makes a lot of sense to accumulate a base level of education in myriad of topics to become a bonafide fitness professional. On top of that, other things that come into the foray include (but are not limited to):

  • Interpersonal and communication skills
  • Social and emotional intelligence (empathy)
  • Behavioral and motivational psychology (cough, cough, nudge, nudge…Psych Skills for Fitness Pros Vol I and Vol II is the “go to” source. Check them out HERE).  
  • Nutrition (although, it’s important to respect scope of practice)
  • Active listening
  • Being an voracious proponent of Wu-Tang Wednesdays.

Being well-rounded in all of the above can come across as having some sort of super power given a vast majority of fit pros out there today – especially your run-of-the-mill commercial gym personal trainer – can barely name a rotator cuff muscle let alone have the ability to confidently program for someone who has chronic low-back pain. What’s more, and maybe this is the cantankerous, grumpy, old and bald strength coach –  (waves his invisible cane in the air) “MEH, kids nowadays” – in me talking…

…but I find that more and more young fit pros fail to grasp the one quality that will undoubtedly impress and build unparalleled client rapport.

  • No, it’s not how many letters you have next to your name or how many certifications you have.
  • No, it’s not your ability to quote Zatsiorsky.
  • And, no, it’s not having washboard abs or glutes that can crack adamantium.

The real (and forgotten) super power that separates a sub-par coach from an S-tier coach is…

…adaptability.

Possessing the ability to pivot or change course on the fly when a client shows up to a session late (time constraint), divulges a new injury (jacked up their knee playing pickleball), has an inability to perform a given exercise prescribed (an endless assortment of eye-wash I see on Instagram), or has explosive diarrhea (good luck!) is a true super power.

I have never written a perfect program. Meaning, it’s not uncommon for me to divert to plan B or C or even D in a given session because a client’s shoulder is pissed off. Sometimes, due to extenuating circumstances, I’ll need to scrap an entire program because a client decides they no longer have the same goal(s), or maybe I was overzealous as a coach and overestimated someone’s ability level.

It’s on me to figure it out and to do it quickly.

I truly believe that if you can seamlessly and effortlessly roll with the punches and not get flustered when inevitable curve balls are going to happen, provide a fun and practical training experience (even with the shit hits the fan), and demonstrate to clients that there is almost ALWAYS a way to get a training effect despite perceived road blocks…

…you will be a rock star in their eyes, and build a ton of trust and loyalty moving forward. Like I always say: long-term success in this industry has more to do with what clients you can KEEP around for awhile more than how many new ones you can attract month to month.

saksan@123rf.comCategoriescoaching Program Design

The Hardest Topic to Write About: Program Design

NOTE TO READER: This is a re-post of a blog post I wrote back in 2017. It’s still the shit. 

There aren’t many topics harder to write about than program design.

I mean, I guess we can make a case for Biomolecular Feedback Systems or the intricacies of Mass Spectrometry,2 but in my neck of the woods – health/fitness & increasing people’s general level of badassery – program design can be (and often is) an arduous topic to break down.

It’s often a rabbit hole full of platitudes and people majoring in the minors.

I don’t know how many sets your client should perform. Or reps. And I don’t know if back squats would be a better fit than front squats.

The answer to any programming question will always be “it depends.”3

Did Tony Just Say Program Design is Dumb and Useless?

Um, no.

What kind of coach would I be if I said that?

Of course it’s important. I’d also be remiss if I didn’t say it’s imperative for any personal trainer or coach to be competent in that area and to, you know…have skills.

A particular set of skills.

Skills that make you a nightmare for excess subcutaneous fat and sub-par deadlift technique.

^^^^ See what I just did there? ^^^^

There aren’t many things more simultaneously rewarding and frustrating than writing training programs for people

Emotions can range form “yep, I nailed it, my client will be in the next Olympics” to “fuck my life, I suck. What’s a dumbbell again?“

Moreover, if we were to be honest, and if we really think about it, nothing is more hypothetical than writing programs for people.

It’s all a guessing game.

I’m serious, I can think of several things less hypothetical than writing programs for people:

  • A Sasquatch.
  • A 14 hour orgasm.
  • Lightsabers.
  • A good Mark Wahlberg movie in the past 20 years.

Sets, reps, which exercise to do, and in what order?…it all falls under the umbrella of “I think this will work.“

“I’m pretty sure this person should trap bar deadlift instead of using a straight bar.”

“11 reps. No, wait, 7.

“Shit, did I leave the oven on?”

I mean, hopefully your guesses aren’t coming from left field and made with some modicum of expertise catered to the goals, needs, and experience level of each client/athlete you work with.

There are a multitude of factors to consider when writing a program. There’s no such thing as a one-size fits all approach.

It’s something entire books take 500+ pages to explain and people get fancy degrees in and stuff.

One of my all-time favs: Christian Thibaudeau’s Black Book of Training Secrets

I am not going to get into the nitty-gritty of program design in this little ol’ post. I’ll peel back that onion at a later date. But there are several tenets or principles of program design that are widely accepted across the board.

Including but not limited to:

Periodization

The organization of the training process. More to the point: It’s the planned variation in training volume and intensity over the course of a training program

This can be accomplished using Micro, Meso, or Macro Cycles:

  • Micro – Usually one-week in length
  • Meso – Usually 2-8 weeks in length, and often the most utilized.
  • Macro – Usually one-year in length (typically reserved for competitive athletes and/or SuperHeroes.

Mesocycles (2-8 week blocks) are the most common and can often be broken down into specific categories:

1. Doing Stuff. Or, What Uppity Strength Coaches Call General Physical Preparedness (GPP)

This is a phase where most people will start and it entails improving things like ROM of a particular muscle, flexibility, strengthening of weak muscle groups, addressing movement quality deficits, and using it as an opportunity to teach proper technique on certain exercises and drills.

2. Specific Physical Preparation (SPP)

My good friend, Joe Dowdell, often says this is where the bulk of the general population – particularly those who work with personal trainers – will stay.

This phase can have one of two focuses:

  • Accumulation – where the main stressor is volume (strength endurance, hypertrophy, etc)
  • Intensification – where the main stressor is intensity (Max Strength, Relative Strength, Speed Strength, Strength-Speed, etc)

3. Specific Training Phase

This is most often reserved for athletes and honing in on the specific demands of their sport of choice. Everything from exercise selection, speed of movement, energy-system work is specific to the sport.

4. Competitive Phase

In short, this covers IN-SEASON training. When I was at Cressey Sports Performance how we programmed for a baseball player during his IN-season training drastically differed from his OFF-season, mostly in terms of training frequency and intensity.

Types of Periodization

Giving credit where it’s due, the bulk of these descriptions are taken from Joe Dowdell’s Program Design Manual.

[NOTE: Sorry, good luck finding it. You’ll have better odds at finding The Invisible Book of Invisibility.]

1. Sequential Method (Linear)

This method uses specific intervals of time in order to develop a singular goal or strength quality.

This is where many beginner clients will start (as well as those who are injured).

  • Long Linear Method – Beginners live here. As weeks pass, volume decreases as intensity increases. The concept of “do more work each week” is hammered home here.
  • Short Linear Method – Uses 1-3 weeks and tries to fix the shortcomings of long-linear approach. Is a way to prevent de-training of strength qualities.

You can also think of this method as NSCA Essentials 101:

Preparation —> Hypertrophy —> Strength —> Power —> Competition —> Active Rest

The pitfall, unfortunately, is that this approach isn’t optimal for more advanced lifters/athletes as it’s tough to train multiple qualities at once.

2. Undulation Method

This is a very popular method and one I use often with my own clients. This is where you perform several different workouts in a repeating cycle, focusing on a different rep-range, exercises, or both.

A classic example is something like this:

Day #1 = “Heavy” Day; where all exercises are performed with low(er) repetitions (3-5) using heavier loads.

Day #2 = “Medium” Day; where all exercises are performed with more traditional “hypertrophy” styled rep-ranges (8-12)

Day #3 = “Light” Day; where all exercises are performed with high(er) reps (15+), tickles optional.

The above approach can be a considered “Daily Undulation.” You can also implement a weekly undulated approach, where the training stress fluctuates weekly.

All in all it’s a nice way to keep training fresh and allows trainees some variety.

3. Concurrent Method

This method allows for training multiple qualities at the same time in a given time period. The most common examples of this method is Westside Barbell and CrossFit.

Westside Barbell = Max Effort Method, Repetition Method, Dynamic Effort Method.

CrossFit = Wall Balls, Kipping Pull-Ups, Double Overs, and Running Over Your Left Arm with a Prius for AMRAP. Dope.

4. Conjugate Method

This is a variant of Concurrent programming. Here, you’re still training multiple qualities but with an emphasis on ONE goal while maintaining all others with a minimal volume.

5. Block Periodization

This is described as a linear series of blocks that focus on several abilities at once. For high-level athletes and competitors this seems to be the preferred approach.

With this method there’s one dominant quality being emphasized (maximal strength for example) with a secondary focus on a different quality (muscle hypertrophy, bringing sexy back), all using a sequence of meso-cycles:

Accumulation (4 weeks) – develop basic abilities such as general aerobic endurance, muscle strength, movement quality, etc.

Transformation/Intensification (4 weeks ) – develop specific abilities like anaerobic endurance, specialized muscular endurance, and event specific technique.

Realization (2 weeks) – pre-competition, which typically emphasizes maximum speed and recovery prior to event. Otherwise known as “you’re now ready to go rip shit up.”

The Training Hour Pie

Mike Boyle speaks to this often. If you have a finite amount of time with a client or athlete – say 60-90 minutes – it’s important to structure each training session to fit the goals and needs of the person and prioritize a certain percentage of the pie accordingly.

That’s the meat-and-potatoes of (good) program design.

Most programs, day-to-day, breakdown as follows:

  • Soft Tissue Work – 5-10 minutes
  • Mobility Work/Dynamic Warm -Up – 5-10 minutes
  • CNS, Reactive, or Speed Work – 10-15 minutes (jumps, skipping, agility, plyometric, OLY Lifts)
  • Strength Training – 30-40 minutes
  • Energy System Work – 10 minutes
  • Recovery & Regeneration – 5-10 minutes.
  • WU-TANG! – optional (but not really)

There will be fluctuations in how much time you allot to what component person-to-person. Some may need to spend more dedicated time on tissue quality, while others may need to up their conditioning.

However, it’s well accepted that most training sessions should follow this “flow,” and it’s your job as the coach to figure out the details.

All of This to Say

When I’m asked to speak to undergrads or young fitness professionals I often balk at the idea of discussing program design. I refrain from writing about it, too. They all want the answer, the big idea, the overarching thesis.

It’s impossible to do.

It’s all talk.

Stop talking.

Don’t get me wrong, the talking is important. It behooves any aspiring fitness professional to have a base understanding of anatomy, physiology, exercise science, and biomechanics and to talk things out.

To speculate, pontificate, question, maybe proselytize.

It’s also important to, you know, read books. I’d never say otherwise.

via GIPHY

But it’s also important to consider that reading, talking and pontificating – while part of the “Turning Pro” process – doesn’t in any way, shape, or form suggest mastery.

Action does.

I’d argue the best way to write effective programs is through experience and letting yourself marinate in trial-and-error.

It’s not necessarily about how many books you read, seminars on the topic you go to, or how many “Masterminds” you attend. That’s all well and good and does matter. But having the guts to finally break the inertia of inaction, to finally stop talking, and to finally put things into action (often failing miserably)…that’s when things get interesting.

And when the not sucking begins.

Categoriescoaching personal training

Looking to Hire a Personal Trainer? Here’s a Short List of Things to Consider

Hiring a personal trainer is a big deal. Maybe not as big of a deal as purchasing a home or a new car (in terms of the initial monetary investment at least), but when you really think about it…
 
…it’s arguably a more important investment because it’s an investment in YOU. Hiring a coach to guide you, show you the ropes, and help you achieve your health/fitness goals (whether it’s to simply feel better, work around an injury, prepare for a competitive season, or be able to deadlift a bulldozer) in the safest and most time efficient way possible can be tricky.
 
I mean, there are A LOT of gyms (and personal trainers) out there; so how do you decide to pick one over another? Where do you even begin?
 

Here Are a Few Simple (and admittedly anecdotal) Guidelines to Consider:

 

1. Are They Certified?

 
 
Tony Gentilcore, CSCS, PhD in General Badassery
 
Some certifications are better than others (and they’re are some I like better than others), but the “gold standard” certifications to look for are ones through the NSCA, NASM, ACE, and Show Up Fitness CPT. Ensuring that whomever you hire has gone through (and passed) some formal education as it pertains to anatomy, physiology, and basic programming is important to consider.
 

2. Can They Concisely Describe What It Is They Do?

 
Watch out for word vomit. Once someone starts describing themselves as a “transformation guru” or, I don’t know, a “body architect,”  you have my full permission to queue up an eye roll parade.
 
They’re a personal trainer or strength & conditioning coach. Or just coach.
 
That’s it. I often find that when someone slaps on some nebulous title to what it is they do…they’re likely compensating for something.
 
Which segues to…
 

3. Do They Offer a Thorough “Assessment” or “Intake” Session?

 
 
Any quality trainer will go out of his or her’s way to take you through a proper assessment to better ascertain your current fitness level, discuss injury history & goals, and to consider any “speed bumps” that would prevent you from beginning a fitness routine.
 
If they don’t…run. If you can’t run, walk. If you can’t walk, in-line lunge (<—- sorry, FMS joke) your way in the opposite direction.
 

4. Do They Seem Like a Personable Person to Hang Out With?

 
Sure, you want to hire someone who is knowledgeable, gets results, and places a premium on continuing education, but if having a 10-15 minute initial conversation with them is more painful than walking over broken glass, imagine what an hour will be like?
 
Some of the most successful coaches I know are just awesome people to hang out with and have superior interpersonal skills. It sounds cheesy, but it matters. Part of what builds consistency with a trainer (and hence, a routine) is the fact you enjoy spending time with them.
 
Are there myriad other things to consider? Yes, of course. Asking them to provide client testimonials (or even connecting you to current clients so you can ask them what their experiences have been like) would be a good idea. Do they dress professionally? I know this may come across as me being a bit of a curmudgeon, but nothing says “don’t hire me” than someone wearing a cut-off t-shirt. 
 
Lastly, don’t be timid to do a little reconnaissance on anyone you’re considering hiring by checking out their social media. If they’re feed is more about being a performative asshat (me, me, meeeeeeee), showcasing their physical attributes (you know exactly what I mean) than it is about educating or showcasing their clients then I’d question their experience and expertise.
 
NOTE: I am not saying people can’t have fun, show off their personality, or demonstrate how their pecs or glutes can cut diamonds. But when that’s the ONLY thing they’re doing on their feed that’s a red flag if you ask me.
 
Also, if they’re into Emily in Paris I’d view that as a unhirable offense.
 
Just my two cents. 
champlifezy@123rf.comCategoriesAssessment

Assessment: Can Your Clients Actually Do What You Want Them to Do?

There’s a lot that needs to be taken into consideration when assessing a new client.

Their unique injury history (past and present), goal(s), training experience, time constraints, equipment availability, even their favorite 90’s tv teen drama (if it’s not Party of Five we can’t be friends)…

…all are taken into account and cross-pollinated with my educational background and experience to ascertain, to the best of my ability, what will be the best course of action to get said individual from Point A4to Point B5 this means becoming  in the most time efficient and and safe manner possible.

The assessment, at least from my perspective, is an amalgamation of muscle testing, movement screens, table work, and good ol’ fashioned investigative work to see whether or not something shakes free or if any “red flags” exist.

But more importantly, the assessment is a splendid opportunity to set the tone, prove to someone that they’re not “broken,” and to help them find their TRAINABLE MENU.

In short, I often joke that my assessment can be described as follows:

“Can the person standing in front of me do stuff?”

via GIPHY

There’s only so much muscle testing, table work, looking at range of motion, and “hmmm’ing” and “ahhhh’ing” any one individual can tolerate before (s)he wants to jump through a pane glass window.

To that end, I prefer to make my assessments more palatable by getting the person standing/sitting in front of me more involved in the process and providing the “facade” (for lack of a better term) that they’re being taken through a pseudo training session.

By having him or her MOVE during their assessment I accomplish a few things:

1) I don’t come across as a creepoid by just staring at them for 60 minutes and stroking my beard (even though I don’t have one).

2) I get waaaaaaay more information in terms of movement ability, compensation patterns (if any) that exist, and whether or not certain positions (or loads) exacerbate their symptoms.

Active vs. Passive Assessment

One simple way to do all the above is to differentiate between one’s ability to actively perform a specific movement pattern and to passively do it.

My colleague, Luke Worthington, who’s my co-presenter in the Strategic Strength Workshop, states things very succinctly: 

“What can THEY do?” = Active Assessment

“What can I do FOR them?” = Passive assessment.

Lets take the squat as an example.

When you watch someone perform a standard bodyweight (or loaded) squat you’re bound to see a bevy of things go awry.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s not always a shit show.

Every so often I’ll work with someone for the first time, they’ll demonstrate a well executed squat, and I’ll break down crying like the first time I watched the series finale of Andor.

However, if I’m being honest, this doesn’t happen often.6

Generally speaking there’s always something weird or wonky or twingey whenever I watch someone squat

No one is perfect.

But to that point, I think it’s imperative to differentiate between someone’s ACTIVE ability to do something and their PASSIVE ability to do it.

Watch someone squat and it’s likely you’ll see any one of the following (if not a combination):

  • Knee valgus
  • Excessive rounding of the spine
  • Excessive pronation of the feet
  • Loss of balance
  • A perceived lack of depth (<— which is arbitrary, but if there’s a lot of “effort” to get to a certain depth or it’s just really, really shallow, then that is important to note).

And when we do see any of the above we have a nasty habit of assuming that said individual is dysfunctional, and subsequently end up over corrective exercising them to death.

Fast forward three months (and a cornucopia of hip mobility and ankle dorsiflexion drills) and there’s been little, if any, improvement.

via GIPHY

To repeat: Watch someone squat (actively).

That will give you a ton of information.

But don’t stop there; especially if you find they’re having trouble with it.

You should also test them PASSIVELY.

 

Oftentimes, when you add this extra layer of assessment, in a way that’s less aggressive and provides a bit more stability to the system – FYI: HERE‘s another way to do it in a quadruped position – you’ll find that they CAN do what you’re asking them to do.

Why Is This Important?

In the video above I’m taking my training partner, Justin, through a basic (passive) hip scour/hip flexion screen. If he were a client this would follow an active squat assessment.

I’d want to see if his ACTIVE  movement (he’s doing the work) matched his PASSIVE (I’m doing the work). From there I’d want to compare the gap that exists between the two.

I want that gap to be as narrow as possible.

If his active squat was poor yet I re-assessed passively and saw an improvement – I.e., that he could, indeed, access more ROM – then I can surmise with a high degree of certainty that he doesn’t have a micro-penis he is likely not dealing with something more nefarious, like a bony block or musculature issue.

In this scenario I can do my job as a coach.

I can implement the appropriate “correctives” and/or exercise progressions/regressions to help him learn to squat.

His body showed me he can do it passively, so I need to show it how to do it actively.

If, however, there was no improvement when testing him passively, then:

It’s not my job.

1) I’d still work within my scope and train him within the ROM that’s pain free and that he can control.

2) However, I’d also refer out for more diagnostic testing or manual therapy to compliment his iron work.

Take Home Points

  • The assessment shouldn’t be used as a tool to point out every…single…dysfunction someone has.
  • Besides, what presents as “dysfunctional” actively may just be the body turning on the emergency brakes.
  • Also look at PASSIVE movement.
  • Try to narrow the gap between active ROM and passive.
  • If more ROM is present passively, then do what you do best…coach!
  • If ROM is poor (or pain exists) actively AND passively, you may want to consider referring out.
  • I don’t know, it could just be me, but Groutfits make my butt look amazing.
lightfieldstudios@123rf.comCategoriespersonal training Program Design Strength Training

The Art of the Indicator Set

The 21st century has graced us with a bevy of technological advances:

  • High-speed internet.
  • Telescopes that now treat us to images of Black Holes
  • Nanotechnology to help improve manufacturing, healthcare, climate change, and agriculture.
  • Pizza crust made out of cauliflower.

The health/fitness sector has also benefitted. Trainers have the ability to work with clients from all over the world in real-time. We also have the capability to measure things like bar speed and heart rate variability via applications on our phone; all of which provide data to help us gauge our “readiness” to train on any given day.

But seriously, cauliflower is now used to make pizza crust! Even more miraculous is that it doesn’t taste like sawdust.

Technology surely is great.

However, when it comes to ascertaining one’s readiness to train I tend to lean more toward the anti-app route, and instead rely on what I call “INDICTOR SETS.”

What the Heck Is An Indicator Set?

The easiest way to explain is via some anecdotal observances.

I was walking to my gym to train the other day where the plan was to show up, warm-up, crank a little Mobb Deep over the stereo, get angry enough to want to fight a tornado, and work up to a heavy(ish) triple on my deadlift (535 lb).

On paper it looked like a done deal.

But once I started warming up, things didn’t go quite as planned:

135 x 5

225 x 5

315 x 3

405 x 1 (didn’t feel horrible, but didn’t feel great)

455 x 1 (INDICATOR SET)

An indicator set basically lets me know whether or not I have “it” that day.

For instance, in the previous two weeks, 455 lbs (which is ~70% of my 1RM) literally flew up. Based on “feel” of my bar speed, and how effortless the set felt, I knew I could make a run for a high 500’s pull.

Put another way, I gave myself the green light to go for it, and I did.

Conversely, 455 felt like absolute garbage the other day.

It felt slow off the ground. And it felt even slower at lockout, which I normally never have any issues with.  The indication was: “Tony, if you attempt to go any higher you’ll run the risk of shitting your spine.”

So, I did the smart thing and called it.

I re-racked the plates, turned the page, and did my accessory work:  DB reverse lunges, a little pouting in the corner, and some pull-throughs.

via GIPHY

Listen, it’s not a perfect system, nor is it anything remotely scientific. To be as transparent as possible: I am not anti-technology. But I am anti-technology to the point that many (not all) people tend to miss the forest for the trees when it comes to their readiness to workout.

If their Apple watch indicates a modicum of fatigue they’ll shut that shit down faster than you can say, well, apple.

Just because your watch says you should avoid training on any given day doesn’t necessarily mean you have to. Besides, I’m not entirely sold on the reliability of those apps anyway. I’ve had clients walk into a session feeling like a million bucks only to have their watch tell them danger, danger, DANGER, and to not even look at a barbell.

On the flip side, I’ve also had clients show up feeling like they made out with a petri dish, only to warm-up, move around a little, and then feel like Leonidas leading the Spartans to battle.

via GIPHY

Indicator sets help you learn to FEEL whether or not you’ve got the juice on any given day. In short: It’s a form of auto-regulation that helps you to not have to rely on some algorithm.

Plus, it’ll save you a few hundred dollars…😙

At least in this scenario you’ll have some tangible, performance-based evidence to help you gauge things. Muscle fatigue is one thing and tends to be easier for many people to use as a metric.

If you’re overly sore you can feel that and tweak your programming accordingly. CNS (or nervous system) fatigue is a bit more nebulous and harder to pinpoint, or even feel for that matter.

Indicator sets help you with the latter.

To that end, I encourage you to start utilizing indicator sets as part of your warm-up on the days you know you’re going to be pushing the envelop. 

Pick a weight during your warm-up that you can use to “gauge” where you’re at that particular day. This number should be heavy enough to be challenging, but one you KNOW you can perform fast and with immaculate technique.

(this will likely be around 80% of your 1 rep-max)

Trust me.  The whole mindset of lift heavy or go home – while admirable – isn’t always the best approach.

khoamartin@123rf.comCategoriescoaching Program Design Strength Training

3 Ways to Improve Your Deadlift Without Deadlifting

For the sake of brevity, this post assumes you can perform a deadlift – trap bar, straight bar, a bag of groceries of the ground, a person, whatever – without shitting your spine.

If you can’t, go seek out a reputable fitness professional to show you how. Or, you can always check out THIS Cliff Notes version I helped author not too long ago.

Much like if someone wants to get better at writing they should, you know, write; or if they want to get better at cooking souffles they should practice cooking souffles; or if they want to master the art of not getting laid, they should attend Star Trek conventions….

…if you want to get better at deadlifitng, you should deadlift.

The more you (purposely) practice something the better you’ll get at it. I understand it’s stating the obvious, but it can’t be repeated enough.

There are many moving parts to executing a pristine deadlift, and oftentimes it bodes in our favor to include exercises, drills, and/or movements that compliment the lift or, more germane to the conversation, address a technique flaw or general weakness.

Below are a handful of quick-n-dirty suggestions that may (or may not) apply to you and help increase your deadlift badassery.

1) Deadstart Squats

 

This is one of my favorite deadlift accessory movements for a few reasons:

  • When set up to match your hip position for the deadlift it offers a ton of carryover in terms of both mechanics and musculature targeted.
  • The deadlift is (mostly) a concentric movement. The Deadstart Squat, too, is (mostly) a concentric movement.
  • For people who struggle with keeping their chest up (preventing their upper back from rounding) during the deadlift, this will be a challenge. NOTE: I’d likely revert to a FRONT squat hold for those who really struggle with back position here. Front squat position is also a better option for those who lack the requisite shoulder mobility (external rotation) to perform well. Another great option is using the Safety-squat or Yoke bar.
  • Great option for training power/explosiveness.
  • Because I said so.

As far as sets/reps there are two approaches I like, both of which gravitate more towards the low(er) end of the spectrum.

One (3-5)

Here, reps will stay in the 3-5 (25ish total reps) range using 60-75% of 1RM. A 4-week macro-cycle may look something like this:

Week 1: 5×5 @ 65% 1RM, 90s rest

Week 2: 6×4 @ 70% 1RM, 90s rest

Week 3: 8×3 @ 75% 1RM, 90s rest

Week 4: 3×5 @ 60% 1RM, 90s rest

Idea is to stay tight throughout duration of set. You should always come to a complete stop on the pins, however you shouldn’t relax

Two (Singles)

I love this option as I feel it offers the most carryover to my deadlift.

Because I’m only performing one-rep, I can place a premium on getting as tight as humanly possible and being as explosive AF. In addition I can go a little heavier in weight here (70-85% of 1RM)

A 4-week macrocycle may look something like this:

Week 1: 12×1 @ 70% 1RM, 30s rest

Week 2: 10×1 @ 75% 1RM, 30s rest

Week 3: 8×1 @ 80% 1RM, 60s rest

Week 4: 6×1 @ 85% 1RM, 60s rest

2) RKC Plank

I don’t know about you, but this is what I look like whenever someone brags to me about how (s)he can hold a two-minute plank:

via GIPHY

You might as well be bragging to me about how you can point out the color red or, I don’t know, walk in a straight line.

Besides, you know and I know if you’re holding a plank that long it (probably) looks like garbage.

NOTE: This is not to insinuate I’m against the plank or find zero value in it.

Au contraire.

Without going too far down the rabbit hole of spinal mechanics, prone (and side) planks (and how long someone can perform them) are a legitimate assessment tool and are staples in terms of low back rehab and performance.

Teaching the RKC Plank offers a quick primer on how to 1) perform the plank right and 2) allow people a window to appreciate what it really feels like to get and maintain full-body tension.

 

The RKC Plank is all about building context.

More specifically it’s about appreciating full-body tension. If someone can’t understand (or feel) what this means while lying on the floor…how in the hell are they going to understand it standing up while attempting to pick up a heavy object off the floor?

Trust me, when done right, 10s will feel like torture.

3) Straight-Arm Band Pulldowns

 

The idea is pretty simple (and effective).

Prior to each set of deadlifts you perform a set of 5-10 repetitions of band pulldowns (holding each rep for a 3-5s count).

This serves a few functions:

  • It allows the trainee to prime or feel his or her’s lats firing. Setting your lats (and subsequently posteriorly tilting your scapulae) as part of your DL set-up will help with leverages and moment arms getting you closer to the barbell. Greg Nuckols does a fantastic job at explaining things more thoroughly and nerdely HERE.
  • Offhandedly, it also helps with anterior core engagement, which in turn aids with rib position. Less rib flare = less lumbar extension = more stable position to lift a metric shit-ton of weight.

Closing Thoughts

None of the above are revolutionary ideas or are going to win be any fitness writing Pulitzers. However, they are exercises/drills I use myself (and with my own clients/athletes) and have found they provide a lot of benefit.

Give them a try yourself and let me know your thoughts/experiences.

andron19821982@123rf.comCategoriesbusiness

5 Things You Can Do Today to Retain Clients

I’ll be the first to admit I’m not the most savvy business person.

I likely wouldn’t be able to tell you my P & L breakdown for the month of December, I probably wouldn’t be able to tell you how many sessions I completed that month either, and I assuredly, still, would need a few seconds to remember which is better:

  • Being in the red?
  • Being in the black?7

I’m not entirely inept, though.

I’m no Pat Rigsby or Pete Dupuis, but when it comes to the “x’s” and “o’s” of (fitness) business acumen I’d put myself in the same vein as the show Severence.

Pretty okay, not great.

And with that I want to share FIVE “things” you can do TODAY to help you retain more clients.

 

No Diggidy, No Doubt

1. Stop Selling/Pushing/Requiring Packages

I understand this won’t resonate or apply to those coaches/trainers who work out of a commercial gym setting, but for all others reading hear me out. This is something I adopted from my time at Cressey Sports Performance and a concept CSP business director, Pete Dupuis, has championed for years.

Not many things are going to make someone pump the brakes on hiring you as their coach more than you asking/requiring a massive amount of money out of the gate.

You: “That was an excellent assessment, I think we’ll be able to get a lot accomplished if we can work together.”

Client: “I agree. How much will it cost to get started?”

You: “I require six months in advance, and you have to share your Netflix account with me.”

via GIPHY

Not many people are going to do cartwheels and take out their checkbook when they hear something like that.

It’s daunting and absurd.

Instead, offer a monthly rate.

  1. It’s way less intimidating.
  2. It forces you to EARN their business every month.

2. Know the WHY.

This quote should explain things:

3. People LOVE to Hear Their Name

I learned this subtle trick from my friends at Mark Fisher Fitness.

The coaching staff there have a rule:

“Each client must hear his or her’s name a minimum of three times during any given session.”

It ensures to the client that YOU’RE present and validates you’re paying attention to THEM.

  • “Great to see you today Matt Damon. Go a head and warm-up and lets get to work.”
  • “Hey, Matt Damon, that set of squats looked amazing.”
  • “Matt Damon, have I ever told you you’re the wind beneath my wings?”

It’s a brilliant if not altogether underutilized tactic.

4. Maybe Consider An After Hours Fight Club?

Kidding.

Or not.

I don’t know.

Maybe it’d be popular?

No, it’s not. I’m totally kidding.8

4. Little Things Matter

This is going to be the most cliche piece of advice I’m going to give.

Call your mother.

Seriously, stop being a jerk.

Also, don’t discount the power of a hand-written note or card. Every client of mine receives a Birthday card of some sort every year. Here’s this year’s iteration: In it I’ll write a little sumthin, sumthin and also include a $10-$15 gift card to a local coffee shop or movie theater.

Clients love it, and there’s little doubt in my mind that this teeny-tiny gesture produces an immense ROI that bodes in my favor.

Likewise, if I haven’t seen a client in a while, or he or she has fallen off the grid, I’ll send them a “wildcard” care saying something to the effect of “Hey, where TF have you been? You too good for me? YOU THINK YOU’RE BETTER THAN ME?!?!”

One of two things usually happens:

1. They come back.

2. I’m handed a restraining order.

5. Just Do Your Job

Smiling (without being obnoxious or creepy about it), showing up on time, providing feedback and a fun, inviting environment, showing empathy (albeit not refraining from offering tough love when needed), and writing programs based on your CLIENT’s ability level and your CLIENT’s needs and your CLIENT’s goals doesn’t require a fancy algorithm or a bevy of letters next to your name.

It’s called doing your job.

And it’s amazing how that alone will make all the difference in the world.

vectorfusionart@123rf.comCategoriesAssessment Corrective Exercise

The Power of Test, Re-Test: How to Supercharge and Add Value to Your Assessment

I often speak on the importance of the test/re-test concept with regards to assessment.

It’s nothing fancy or elaborate.

You test something – whether it be range of motion or maybe a strength discrepancy – implement a “corrective” modality if something’s deemed out of whack, and then re-rest that shit to see if it worked.

If it did….you’re Gandalf.9

If not…#awwwwwkward.

The test/re-test approach helps set the tone for any future “corrective” strategies or programming considerations you’ll do as a coach or trainer.

In addition, and something I’d argue is equally as important, it also provides an added layer of value to the assessment.

If you’re able to demonstrate to someone a significant change or improvement in ROM or reduction in pain/discomfort by implementing a drill or two, and it’s something they’ve been struggling with despite countless interactions with other fitness professionals, what’s the likelihood they’ll bust out their checkbook or Bitcoin wallets (<—depending on their level of geekery)?

I suspect highly likely.

It demonstrates a perceived level of “mastery” and knowledge-base towards the assesser (you) and, in a roundabout, reverse psychology kind-of-way, delves into the “pain center” of the assessee (athlete/client).

In this example it can refer to literal pain such as a banged up shoulder, knee, or lower back. But it can also speak to pain in the figurative sense too. Someone who’s frustrated and “had it up to here!” that they can’t lose weight, or maybe an athlete who was cut from their high-school team would have a degree of “pain” that would incentivize them to take action.

Show someone success or a clear path of action, however little, and they’re putty in your hands.

Of course this assumes you’re not some shady shyster who tries to up-sell the benefits of some super-secret concurrent, 47-week, Eastern-Bloc training program you copied from Muscle & Fitness or, I don’t know, organic raspberry ketones laced with mermaid placenta.

People who promote and use smoke-and-mirror tactics are the worst.

But lets get back to the topic at hand.

Test/Re-Test

One of the main screens I use with my athletes and clients is their ability to lift or elevate their arms above their heads.

Shoulder flexion is important for everyone, not just overhead athletes and CrossFitters.

If someone lacks shoulder flexion, and they’re an athlete, it’s going to affect their performance. A baseball pitcher may be “stuck” in gross shoulder depression, which in turn will have ramifications on scapular positioning and kinematics, which in turn will result in faulty mechanics and compensatory issues up and down the kinetic chain.

Conversely, regular ol’ Hank from accounting, who likes to hit the gym hard after work, if he lacks shoulder flexion, he too could have numerous issues arise ranging from shoulder and elbow pain to lower back shenanigans.

Shoulder flexion – and the ability to do it – is a big deal in my opinion. And it’s a screen that should be a high-priority in any fitness professionals assessment protocol.

So lets say I’m working with someone who lacks shoulder flexion. I test it both actively (standing, picture above) and passively (on a training table).

I surmise that it’s limited and that it may be feeding into why a particular person’s shoulder has been bothering him or her.

I can use the test/re-test approach to see if I can nudge an improvement.

Now, as I’ve learned from many people much smarter than myself – Mike Reinold, Sue Falsone, Dr. Evan Osar, Dr. Stuart McGill, Papa Smurf, etc – you shouldn’t rely on any ONE screen/corrective.

Everyone is different, and what works for one person might not even scratch the surface for another.

With regards to addressing (lack of) shoulder flexion10, there are a handful of “go to” strategies I like to use.

And then it’s just a matter of seeing which one sticks.

1) Encouraging a Better Position

In order to elevate the humerus (arm) above your head, the scapulae (shoulder blade) needs to do three things:

  • Upwardly rotate
  • Posteriorly tilt
  • Protract

The ability to do so is vastly correlated with the thorax. Those who are super kyphotic (ultra rounded upper back) will have a hard time elevating their arms overhead. Often, the simple “fix” here is to foam roll the upper back and work on more t-spine extension and you’ll almost always see an improvement.

Bench T-Spine Extension

 

Side Lying Windmill

 

But what about the opposite? Those who are stuck in more “gross” extension and downward rotation?

I.e., the bulk of athletes and meatheads.

Here the shoulder blades can be seemingly “glued” down.

In that case some positional breathing drills to “un-glue” the shoulder blades (and to encourage more 3D or 360 degree expansion of the ribcage/thorax) would be highly advantageous.

All 4s Belly-Breathing

 

It’s amazing what a few minutes of this drill can do with improving shoulder flexion ROM, without having to yank or pull or “smash” anything.

2) Allow the Shoulder Blades to Move

Some people simply don’t know how to allow their shoulder blades to move. A prime example is this past weekend.

An attendee who’s a personal trainer – but also competes in figure – mentioned how her shoulders (especially her left) had been bothering her for eons, and she couldn’t figure out why.

We had her perform this drill.

1-Arm Quadruped Protraction

 

In reality, both protraction and retraction are occurring, but many people have a hard time with the former.

The idea here is to learn to gain movement from the shoulder blade itself and not via the t-spine.

Here’s another angle (because, triceps):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eyNFNxqFlSc

 

After a few “passes” with this drill, she saw an immediate improvement in her ROM. What’s more, the following day when she showed up for Day #2, the first thing out of her mouth was “my shoulder feels amazing today.”

That’s a win.

3) Pin and Go

Another route to take is to have the person foam roll their lats. Not many people do this, and there’s a reason why: It’s un-pleasant.

I’ll have the person spend a good 30 seconds or so on each side and then have them stand up and perform a simple SMR drill using a lacrosse ball against a wall.

They’ll “pin” the teres minor down (basically, find the tender spot behind their shoulder and hold it there) and then work into upward rotation.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9OiGt_O1FvY

 

Another five or so passes here, and I’ll re-test.

Many times I’ll see a marked improvement in their shoulder flexion.

Caveat

NONE of this is to insinuate that anything mentioned above will work for everyone. The idea is to understand that it’s important to “test” a number of modalities and then re-test to see if you find an improvement.

If you do, you’re likely barking up the right tree which will make your corrective approach and subsequent strength training more successful.

If you don’t, well, my bad…..;o)

microgen@123rf.comCategoriesExercise Technique Program Design Strength Training

Are Compound Movements Actually Making You Stronger?

NOTE FROM TG: It’s Christmas. So, I’m out. But, I figured this would be an opportune time to repurpose some old content.

1) If you didn’t read this the first time I posted it all I have to say is “pfffffft, whatever.”

2) If you did, you’re cool. And, share it……;o)

Understandably, the title of this post suggests some nefarious agenda where my goal is to spend the next few minutes explaining why we’ve had it all wrong the entire time.

“You mean to tell us, Tony, there’s a chance compound movements don’t make people stronger?”

“What’s next: telling us water isn’t wet, the Earth isn’t round, you’ve been busting our balls the entire time and kipping pull-ups are, in fact, one of your favorite exercises?”

Relax. Deep breaths.

Just so people don’t think I’ve lost my marbles or are already tapping away on their keyboard drafting their hate mail before actually reading what I have to say below….the short answer to the title of this post is:

“Yes, I do feel compound (multi-joint) movements – think: deadlift, squat, bench press, rows, overhead pressing – make people into beasts, and should lay the foundation for any well-rounded strength training program.”

However, I fear many trainees (and coaches) often fall into the same trap where we’re programmed into thinking compound movements, and only compound movements, should be utilized 100% of the time…no exceptions.

A thousand years of no gainz and incessant internet trolling to the person caught using the leg curl machine or, the horror, performs a few sets of tricep kickbacks.

Shut Up

No, really…shut up.

Of COURSE compound movements make you strong(er). If you want to get strong, it only makes sense to perform those movements which will allow you to use the most weight and force the body into a state of adaptation to get strong.

Granted a lot of other things need to fall into place in order for “strong” to happen. Just because you place a barbell on your back and meander up and down doesn’t mean you’re the second coming of Ed Coan.

Technique, frequency of training, addressing weaknesses, technique, and technique consistent progressive overload all need to be taken into consideration.

What’s more, if strength is the goal – particularly with the big 3 – compound/multi-joint movements performed in low(er) rep ranges (1-5) is kind of important.

Why?

Cliff Notes Version:  Lifting maximal weight has a number of effects:

1. Maximal number of motor units are recruited.

2. Fastest MU’s are activated (high-threshold motor units).

3. The discharge frequency (rate coding) is increased.

4. Activity is synchronous – both inter and intra-muscularly.

5. Potential for future hypertrophy gains (especially when you revert back to a “hypertrophy” specific training phase).

6.  While some argue whether or not the research is efficacious – it goes both ways – lifting heavy things helps to increase serum Testosterone levels.

7.  Girls will want to hang out with you (<=== it’s science).

But It’s Not All PRs and Butterfly Kisses

While all the above is true, focusing solely on compound movements (and lifting maximal weight all the time) does have its pitfalls.

1). There’s an inherent likelihood of increased wear and tear on the joints over time (Yes, even with “good” technique).

2). Compound movements = produce/accumulate more fatigue (particularly neural fatigue). And if it’s not managed appropriately, one may see a decrease in strength/performance over time.

And finally, something not many people consider:

3). We’re Really Good at Compensating.

You may have noticed that I drilled the idea of “technique” earlier. It’s that important.

As a coach I find many people are unable to express their true fitness/strength level due to faulty joint positions (misalignment, such as excessive lumbar extension/APT), and, honestly, not “earning the right” to increase load.

I.e., they haven’t performed enough reps at “x” weight in order to go up.

To that end, drilling technique – and respecting each individual’s anthropometry – is always going to be of paramount importance.

 

Due to our ability to compensate well, the likelihood you’re leaving poundages in the tank are very high.

As well, when we start talking accessory movements, I’m always in the camp which takes the approach they should generally be used to address some form of technique flaw or weakness with the main lift in question.

For Example

If someone is struggling with their deadlifts off the floor – meaning, they’re super slow – some viable accessory movements to address this would be:

1). Limiting tap-n-go reps (bouncing off the floor).

2). Deficit pulls (2-3″ elevated) to generate more quadricep recruitment.

3). More squat variations such as Safety Squat Bar squats and front squats (again, to generate more quadricep recruitment).

4). Anderson Squat – performed from a deadstart, emulating one’s deadlift stance.

 

Note: Notice my hip placement above. When I was pulling conventional style (the video is four years old) this variation of Anderson squat very much mirrored my deadlift stance, which carried over well.

Back To My Point

Oh yeah, my point.

Listen, it’s okay to perform isolation work or more bodybuilding-specific exercises. A more “hybrid” approach – strength and hypertrophy – is going to bode well for most people anyways.

Case in point: my bench press sucks. There are days where I’d rather wash my face with broken glass than bench press.

One of the things my coach has been implementing into my programs of late is more isolation work to address muscular issues.

Think about it: expressing strength is (mostly) about generating force. Hoisting big weights helps in this regard. However, a bigger muscle – almost always – is going to produce more force than a smaller one.

Indeed, I’ve been hammering away at my bench press technique – even implementing accessory movements like paused bench presses and Spoto Presses to address my weaknesses.

 

But guess what? Lately – for the past two blocks of training – I’ve been performing a TON of dumbbell chest flyes. You know, those “wimpy” things guys use to train their chest cleavage.

I feel so dirty admitting it.11

Funnily enough my bench press has seen it’s best jump in a while since incorporating more isolation type work for the pecs and triceps.

Too, my DL has gone up since tossing in some leg extensions; and I have to assume the chest flyes play a role too…;o)

Read: It’s not only about compound movements. Don’t be so dogmatic.

True, they serve as the staple for any strength-based program…but try not to neglect the importance of choosing the correct accessory work – even if it’s isolation exercises – to compliment your goals.

The internet will forgive you.