In the most basic terms, Hypertrophy refers to an increase in the size of a muscle. This increase in size is due to multiple factors, the most important of which are an increase in the size/number of the contractile elements…
Pull-up Pyramids The Pull-up Pyramid is an effective method for building work capacity and strength in the upper body. I was introduced to pull-up pyramids by Hall of Fame Wrestling Coach Matt Morris. He developed the system and has used…
Weighted Pull-ups and Weighted Dip are arguably the most effective exercises for developing functional upper body strength. The following is a brief explanation of several training methods that can be applied to Weighted Pull-ups and Weighted Dips. "Four Week Progressive…
Circuits The term "Circuit" typically refers to a training method including 5-12 exercises, completed in succession with little to no rest. Circuits can be completed by performing a prescribed number of reps with each exercise for a predetermined number of…
Giant Sets Complete four or more exercises consectivley with no rest between exercises. Giant sets are typically comprised of exercises focused on a single muscle group, this differentiates them from circuits which typically work a variety of muscle groups. Examples:…
Cumulative Sets Select a weight that you can complete for 8-12 reps, in good form and at a controlled tempo. Begin the workout by completing one rep at your selected weight, followed by a :10 rest. Next, complete 2 reps…
The functional fitness movement was to some degree a backlash against the commercialization of fitness. The fitness industry was dominated by large corporate gyms who had moved increasingly towards machines and away from an integrated modalities approach to training. In…
Previous articles have focused primarily on workouts based on completing prescribed distances. This time, we'll take a look at workouts based on prescribed time domains. Links to Previous Articles: 9 Conditioning Workouts for the Sled More Fun with Sleds Measuring…
More Fun with Sleds Some sports (and professions) require athletes to switch quickly between strength-based and endurance-based tasks. One way to address this demand in training is to blur the lines between strength and conditioning. This can be accomplished…
The “Upper-Body Squat” The Pullover was the first machine that Arthur Jones built of what would become fitness giant “Nautilus Inc” (he sold the first one in 1970). He claimed that up until the point, it was impossible to isolate…