The Iron Monkey Deep Six Challenge

Many years ago, StrongFirst Certified Master Instructor Jon Engum published an article using his Deep Six practice that tested an instructor candidate’s readiness to pass the SFG Level I Certification. The plan is simple: 3-5 rounds of a complex composed of the six fundamental kettlebell skills: swing, snatch, clean, military press, squat, and get-up. The […]

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? […]

What You Need to Know About the Lats and Your Front Squat

Whether you do the bodybuilding, weightlifting, or powerlifting rack while front squatting, using your lats to the maximum is key. Once you understand the anatomy and kinesiology of this powerful muscle, you will know why.

The 3 Cleans: The Relationship Between Form and Function

Let's talk about architecture as it relates to the kettlebell clean. Really? Yes, really. Architecture, form, and function are important. The type of kettlebell clean (form) sets the structure for the goal exercise (function).

The Basics of the Barbell Front Squat

The barbell front squat is an effective squat variation, is just plain hard work, and has a carryover to sport and life that cannot be ignored. Here are the essentials you need to know.

Punch the Clock

I think it was Dan John who said something to the effect that “the majority of your training will be a ‘punch the clock’ kind of session.” The younger generation might not be familiar with the expression “punch the clock”—it refers to a time clock where employees had to punch holes into a paper timecard […]

Get Stronger with Odd-load Kettlebell Training

Life is unpredictable. So training that helps us withstand and react to asymmetrical loads and stresses goes a long way in making us more resilient. Kettlebells are perfect tools to help with that—especially when we add specialized odd-load varieties in our training. Not only are these moves great for those without matching doubles, but they are […]

Build a Base of Strength with the 5RM Kettlebell Front Squat Program

Why not give students a motivating win while they’re working on building a foundation of strength? This was my inspiration for creating a 5RM kettlebell front squat program.

Use Goal Cycling to Stay on Target

Have you written down your goals? Great. The next step is to determine how to reach those goals. Some methods will work better than others, for any given person or task. On the other hand, there may be several similarly-effective ways to reach your desired endpoint. Either way, you will have to put in the work […]

How the Front Squat Can Improve Your Clean and Jerk

The dip in the kettlebell jerk and the barbell front squat should be almost identical. This is why a month of front squats will do wonders for your jerk.