The Ten Commandments of SFG Level I Kettlebell Cert Prep

Back in a weird and wild world known as 2001, a man known affectionately by his growing list of die-hard followers as “The Evil Russian” had a novel idea: Why not put together a fitness certification that actually required you to prove that you were…you know…fit? Tests of strength, stamina, and real-world physical abilities took […]

Box Clever—How to Unlock your Range of Motion

Serious strength is best built on a solid foundation of fundamental compound lifts, such as deadlifts, squats, and pressing. To ensure safety and maximize the benefits, that strength needs to be accessible across the movement’s full range of motion. Since not everyone starts off with perfect mobility, here’s a simple strategy to make you stronger […]

Podcast Episode #13: Dr. Kelly Starrett

 StrongFirst Podcast Episode #13 Summary Dr. Kelly Starrett talks with Craig Marker about strength, conditioning, and moving well. Dr. Starrett is a coach, physical therapist, author, speaker, and blogger, as well as the owner of San Francisco Crossfit and MobilityWOD.com. Show Notes 01:15 – Dr. Starrett talks about his early work and his relationship […]

Breaking Parallel in the Squat: Why You Shouldn’t Avoid It and How to Achieve It

It remains a point of contention—is squatting bad for your knees? Is it safer to squat no lower than parallel? Or are these merely myths, perpetuated by trainers who simply don't know how to properly establish a comfortable, full-depth squat pattern for those who struggle with it?

Stability for Greater Strength Gains

When is the last time you actually tested your stability? It might be time to re-assess. It only takes a moment, and if you happen to discover a deficiency there, some simple corrections will significantly improve your overall strength.

Mobility for a Stronger Barbell Front Rack

Brett Jones, StrongFirst Director of Education, has a saying, “I can be talked into just about anything.” Brett is referring to your individual context for doing something—the reason WHY you choose to do what you are doing.  The same question can be applied to your barbell front squat training:  Why are you doing front squats? […]

Podcast Episode #21: Dr. Stu McGill

Dr. Stu McGill joins the show for a second time to talk about breathing and when to use what kind of breathing. Dr. McGill also talks to your host Craig Marker about picking up odd objects, wedging, and getting strong with power breathing.

Podcast Episode #11: Pavel Macek

StrongFirst Podcast Episode #11 Summary In this episode of the StrongFirst Podcast, your host Craig Marker talks with Pavel Macek, Senior StrongFirst instructor, StrongFirst Accredited Gym Owner, trainer of high-level MMA fighters, developer of the new StrongFirst Resilient workshop, and historian of strength culture. Show Notes 01:28 – Pavel shares his background in strength, martial […]

Should Kettlebells be Used in the Clinic? (Considerations and Applications for Clinicians)

If you are a physical therapist—or a patient of one—this is an absolutely crucial read. It covers a lot of ground with regard to effective and responsible patient rehab utilizing StrongFirst kettlebell principles, so be sure to bookmark it for later reference.

Flexible Steel and StrongFirst: Announcing a Partnership

Flexible Steel is a necessary and valuable piece of the training puzzle, a piece people are frequently missing. Imagine the joy of owning the effortless flexibility of a child, while also possessing the strength of an adult.