Stroll into a gym and you’re much more likely to hear “How much do you bench?” rather than “How’s your range of motion?” Over the years and after much trial and error, I learned the easiest method to touch our toes over the course of time. I’m pleased to teach you today. When I began weight training as a teenager, flexibility never entered my mind; I just wanted to be bigger … [Read more...]
“The Jackie” Crossfit Workout
I just completed my 5 x 5 workout with a new twist, and I’m anxious to share the results. As you might remember, I recently decided to press the pause button on my squats after my right hip started cursing like an inebriated seaman. It’s been about a calendar week since I last dropped my hips back with any significant quantity of weight bearing down on my shoulders. Instead, … [Read more...]
Dumbbell Snatch (with Sample Routine)
I love the dumbbell snatch. It’s one of the exercises I perform simply because enjoy it. I dig the sensation of moving the weight fast and the sting when my feet hit the floor. Lucky for me, the dumbbell snatch translated perfectly to baseball. Picture Andrelton Simmons going from an athletic position to leaping up to, well, snatch a bullet line drive. Notice the … [Read more...]
Bench Press – the Best Upper Body Exercise
The bench press is the most essential upper body move for overall strength, power and muscular development. It has also inspired the world's most ridiculous question: Man, how much can you bench? This query is both embarrassing and meaningful. The amount of weight an athlete can move off of his or her chest translates directly to sport. For non-athletes concerned mostly … [Read more...]
Overcoming Injuries and the Best Upper Body Workouts
When an injury robs us of our ability to train the way we are accustomed to, there is nearly always an alternative. After an injury left me unable to perform my usual routine, I focused on the best upper body workouts to keep myself fit and strong. Watching Richard Sherman on crutches during the final minutes of the Super Bowl reminded me of the September night in 2005 when … [Read more...]