I've been squatting since age 13. I'm 5'10" and according to the fallacy, I should be 5'1" since squats "stunt your growth." I've done 50 sets of Squats in a day and didn't get rhabdo or need to go to the hospital. I've squatted 315 for 22 reps on my 22nd birthday and squatted 225 for 50 reps. Squats are good for the body AND the soul. But, as we get older and accumulate mileage of iron on the body, it's important to switch up those Squats. Use variations of the squat to work … [Read more...]
Hotel Gyms, Prison Strength Equipment & Inspiration
I heard the stories of this gym. Supposedly, it was quite the sight to see. At least that's what everyone was saying, so naturally, I HAD to see if there was A Gym God inside a hotel. It was Saturday around 10 AM and Marty Gallagher has just finished his presentation. I was fired UP and sitting down was the last thing my mind and body would dare conform to do. I changed into my gym shorts and hit the elevator to the 6th floor. What I saw was beautiful..... … [Read more...]
Tire Flip Instruction – Strongman Training Technique
After our recent Lift STRONG fundraiser, benefiting Leukemia & Lymphoma Foundation, I saw how countless athletes had NO clue how to properly flip the tire, especially the heavier, 600 lb tire. Even the guys who were built like brick shit houses were often found wrestling the 600 lb tire. Learning HOW to use your strength is critical if you want to be successful as an athlete. This is what we call "functional strength" - can your gym strength be used to apply OUTSIDE the gym. When I say … [Read more...]
The John Welbourn Sandbag Challenge
What happens when a former NFL, 311 lb BEAST challenges you? You step up and go BEAST mode.... and then quickly realize BEAST is what I will always be chasing.... Stay tuned for Part II. And, stay tuned for the results as to whether or not I was successful at getting John Welbourn to travel to NJ. Challenge for YOU: Video yourself shouldering a 130 lb sandbag for 30 reps. If you can beat 2 minutes, 17 seconds, I'll hook you up with The Underground Strength System. Like all good things in … [Read more...]
Monday Motivation: Tribute to The Underground
Here's an e mail / video I received a few days ago. Check out this kid's story and his video, it blows me away! Hey Zach, My name is Vince and I have been following the Underground Training Methods for about a year now and am extremely happy with my results. I just wanted to make this video as a thank-you for all of the information that you put out for all of us undergrounders as well as inspiring me to change the way I train and build my own underground gym in my home! Hopefully it … [Read more...]
Underground T Shirt Inspiration Contest Winner(s)!!
Damn, this was FREAKING TOUGH!! First, I want to thank ALL the BEASTS who submitted their videos. They were truly amazing, seeing how many of you train outdoors, in your garage, at playgrounds, in basements and without the rules yet still kicking ass. The Videos have fired me UP as well as fired up many people around the world!!! The videos submitted for Underground contests in the past were often very cut and dry, you saw them, and you knew which ones were THE most inspiring. Well, this … [Read more...]
Old School Strongman Sandbag Workout, Part II
Here is Part II of my Old School Strength Inspired Sandbag Workout. Part I, was inspired by The Mighty Hermann Goerner. Part II, still inspired by Hermann Goerner but also inspired by Coach Ethan Reeve. Coach Reeve told me about a workout he did several years ago when I was down in North Carolina to speak at The NC State Strength Coaches Clinic. He did 100 D Ball sandball shouldering reps for BEST time. Coach Reeve was performing "Density Training" back in the early 70's when he was a … [Read more...]
Old School Sandbag Workout for BAD MoFos, Density Style
About one year ago you may remember me posting a video and article inspired by the Great Strongman, Hermann Goerner and I gave a little taste of his Kettlebell Chain. Well, now things are the same AND different..... Enter The Sandbag Chain..... NOT for the weak of mind or heart, check it and get after it. Check the Video below... Coach Reeve and many of the strongmen from the 1800s and early 1900s have inspired me to lift in some very unique and non conforming ways. My Question for … [Read more...]
Overhead Lifting Mayhem & Shoulder Health
I have a SERIOUS passion for all types of lifting, but, I especially LOVE throwing weights overhead, ALL types of weights. Remember, I'm a SOUL Lifter, rules need NOT apply. Discriminate against NOTHING that makes you stronger. In this Video I timed myself against an array of training tools to clean and press overhead. The variety keeps you from getting bored and each overhead press is slightly different than the next. Your mind must stay focused to handle the details of each … [Read more...]
Sandbag Complexes and Home Gym Workouts
Lots of people often ask for my recommendation on how to set up a home gym, especially when limited on space, funds and time. Well, as you can see, I just cranked out some nasty Sandbag Complexes with The Underground Sandbag. Being in a new home myself AND not being close to my gym I'll be setting up a nasty corner of Underground Equipment by simply using a Russian Kettlebell and The Underground Sandbag. In my office you'll find a Power Wheel, Jump Stretch Band and some Grip Training … [Read more...]