https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-sA1r3H2W1o&feature=emb_title

Jumps, Carries & Calisthenics | Manasquan Strength & Conditioning https://t.co/SkofNiKz0h

Yesterday I had a convo with 3 kids I started working w/ in middle school. They are now freshman and sophomores.

3 of them did a Sumo Deadlift yesterday for 2 x 2 reps.

But......

— Zach Even - Esh (@ZEvenEsh) November 3, 2020

They mentioned how some of their teammates who used to train with us a few years ago were disappointed, because they were not back squatting, deadlifting, etc.

Well, when you build athletes up SAFELY & with age appropriate training, you must build a FOUNDATION.

— Zach Even - Esh (@ZEvenEsh) November 3, 2020

I train our younger athletes through the model of what is done with many Russian & European athletes. This way, by the time they reach mid teen years, they have built a tremendous foundation BOTH physically AND emotionally.

— Zach Even - Esh (@ZEvenEsh) November 3, 2020

Now, they are prepared to Squat, Clean, Bench, etc. YES, some of our middle school athletes perform LIGHT trap bar deads, LIGHT front squats, LIGHT benching but that is the MINORITY of what they do.

I use basic gymnastics, med balls, kettlebells, sleds, bands, movement & PLAY.

— Zach Even - Esh (@ZEvenEsh) November 3, 2020

Think about it. 3 of those kids just Pulled 315 EASY. That would NOT be safe or appropriate had they not been built with the proper foundation.

As a Coach, I do what is BEST for the Kids, NOT what someone says is Best or to pump business.

— Zach Even - Esh (@ZEvenEsh) November 3, 2020

I plan for LONG term success & longevity of the body so the athlete can compete at the highest level vs burning out or being injured constantly through high school.

Uneducated Coaches / Parents, etc simply do NOT want this long term approach.

— Zach Even - Esh (@ZEvenEsh) November 3, 2020

I don't care who the best 12 or 15 yr old athlete is. I want to see kids getting college scholarships and continuing through college.

— Zach Even - Esh (@ZEvenEsh) November 3, 2020

If you're a Coach and you "lose kids" because they want to Deadlift and Back Squat yet those kids are NOT ready, then DO THE RIGHT THING.

Let other places do as they wish. Your goal and number one job as a Coach is "Do No Harm". Train these kids the right way. Period.

Live The Code 365,

Z

The Underground Strength Coach Cert