This morning I was drinking my morning shake, which I have 2 – 3 mornings out of the week, other days, I go with “real” food.

My wife asked me if I was going to work out today, I told her I would, after cranking out some computer work, I planned on hitting the backyard for some kettlebell training, and then she asked if the gym was open.

Indeed it was, but only for  select few who were invited to train on Saturdays in preparation for Joe DeFranco’s strongman contest. Joe never invited outsiders into his competition except for our athletes, which was last year.

My wife encouraged me to meet up with the crew to train with them, little did she know what we were actually doing, and when I arrived today, I was ready for battle.

As the Coach, I am expected to lead from the front, I expect this from myself and my athletes expect this as well.

I know that my athletes have been trained in ways I wish I knew of, and now, many of them are stronger than me, bigger than me, leaner and meaner than me. Regardless, I will be ready for battle, with little sleep and no perfect anythings, it was “Go time.”

Our plans to train outside were quickly shuffled as the rain began to pour down with no let down in sight.

I quickly adapted and adjusted and set up our workout as such:

1) farmer walk dead lifts: 1 x 5, 1 x 3

2) 600 lb tire flip: x 3 reps (flip, run to other side, repeat, etc.)

3) log bar clean and press: 1 x 5, 1 x 30 seconds, 1 x 5 heaviest weight

4) double Kettlebell cleans w/88′s: 1 x 5 reps – my psyche shot me to 10 easy reps!

5) glute ham raise 1 x 12

6) 45 degree back XT w/60 lbs 1 x 12

I finished with some heavy arm work for biceps and triceps. Getting the guns stronger is more important than many people care to admit or understand.

Strong triceps will push up your log bar military press, the biceps endure a lot of strain when performing farmer walks and when wrestling with a tractor tire. All angles must be covered.

Heavy abdominal training will be included during the week.

Note the low number of sets. Less can be more, when less is enough. More is not always better. We aim to train with the minimal amount of volume giving the maximum return. Some thrive on more volume and they are given free reign to do so. Psychologically, some of these Gladiators need the extra volume.

This workout reminded me of the battles I encountered every workout when I was competing as a bodybuilder. My training partner was a wrestler, I was natural, he was not. Mentally, I refused to back down. I knew this would make up for my lack of physical advantages, and, although natural, my intensity would often times nauseate my training partner and others who trained with me.

As you can see, the mind will be your most powerful weapon.

Don’t ever lose your edge, engage yourself in activities that keep you leading from the front.

In Strength,

–Z–

P.S. – A style of training too much for others, this may be just what you need, and just what you’re looking for. Check it out at http://undergroundstrengthmanual.com

Share and Enjoy