Upstream Strength Strategies

“Every system is perfectly designed to get the results it gets.”—Paul Batalden, Medical Expert In his book, Upstream: How to solve problems before they happen, Dan Heath talks about how upstream decisions can have a greater impact on downstream results. He also explains the difference between upstream decisions and preventative measures (being proactive is not […]

What Mastering Your Bodyweight Can Teach You About Lifting Iron

A common path for our students pursuing the StrongFirst Elite designation is to start with the kettlebell instructor certifications before earning the bodyweight and barbell credentials. All four—SFG, SFG II, SFB, and SFL—earn you Elite status. But the path isn’t written in stone. Our principles transcend modalities so you can get stronger whichever way you […]

G-Tox: A Proven Tool for Accelerated Grip Recovery

Tension and relaxation training go hand in hand. During your next training session, try adding this new drill to your fast and loose arsenal to boost performance through accelerated grip recovery.

Strength Training and the Benefits of Perfusion

Many years ago, the president of USA Powerlifting asked me, "Did you ever notice that those who train with heavy weights have better looking skin and look more alive than those who just do cardio only?"

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.

Five Energy Leaks to Plug so Your Strength Gains Flow

As we continue our pursuit of strength, we are regularly threatened by a stealthy nemesis that rears its head between us and our goals. Lying dormant from the very beginning of our journey, this common enemy waits patiently for the perfect moment to strike—just as we think we are going to progress and often, costing […]

How to Avoid Injury and Maximize Strength by Correcting Rib Flare

Often rearing its ugly head in scenarios involving challenging overhead movements and/or general fatigue, the rib flare robs the individual of his or her potential strength. Thus, rib flare must always be caught and corrected.

How to Get Properly Loaded in the Deadlift and Swing

We “get loaded” through an eccentric movement. Since the deadlift begins with a concentric movement, our set-up is what provides us with the opportunity to create an eccentric load.

How to Progress Yourself to Your First Pull-up

Here are some highly effective progressions for those of you working toward your first pull-up. But do not skip this article because you CAN do pull-ups. These same progressions can strengthen and even advance your current performance.

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.