Zen and the Art of Barbell Training

Recently, a friend asked me what it was like to perform a max-effort lift. The closest parallel I could come up with was my time living and training at a Zen meditation center.

When Tension Is a Beautiful Thing

I am neither discussing different types of headaches, nor the strength properties of a barbell and its ability to resist bending and becoming permanently deformed. I am talking about what your body needs to generate prior to loading it.

How to Properly Program for In-Season Football

The education I received at the Plan Strong seminar helped me design a much better in-season training program for myself that resulted in a better football season.

The 5TRM Back Squat Program

Sometimes it is not appropriate to measure 1RM, but what if your back squat program is based off one? Enter the 5TRM - your five technically perfect rep max. A new program inspired by Plan Strong.

Chuck Taylor Redesign: A Survival Guide

In the Chuck Taylor redesign, Converse changed little of the external appearance, but the new cushioned sole is a soul CRUSHER in our strength-training world.

The 1TRM EV PS Program: Escalating Volume in the Plan Strong Style

Here is a more advanced variation of the 5TRM Back Squat Program, based on the 1TRM and with a volume progression that recalls that of the Plan Strong methodology.

How to Intelligently Define, Determine, and Test Your 1RM

Let's take a more detailed look at the 1RM. Specifically, how you can determine your 1RM based on your training with a lighter weight, what a “1RM” really is, and the best way to test it.

The Subtle But Essential Role of the Triceps Brachii in the Deadlift

The triceps brachii are often overlooked in the deadlift, even by competitive powerlifters. But when engaged properly, they help you generate more strength and power and reduce injury.

300 Seconds: A Guide to Maximizing Your Rest Intervals

This length of time may seem like an eternity, but taking long rest intervals between work sets is one of the keys to building strength.

The Patience of Strength: the Russian Science of Rest Intervals

An Italian food writer launched a “slow food” movement to promote leisurely meals to enjoy the company of friends and even to taste the food. Perhaps we should do the same in strength.