The Great Limiter

"You'll never outperform your self-image."

Continuous Running vs High Intensity Training: Why are you still jogging?

The Dark Fleet of Airdynes.

The scientific literature is in agreement, but the abounding number of joggers I see on a daily basis tells of the clear disconnect between this scientific literature and the average exerciser.

Mobility Work is a Waste

Kelly Starrett, the MobilityWod Sensei

It's boring, annoying, and time consuming, and it takes forever to see any progress. No need to waste your time.

Complacency Kills.

To find yourself completely satisfied with your current state in any discipline is to severely limit your potential for growth and excellence. Complacency is a highway to mediocrity and guarantee to a life of average averageness. 

Priorities, Patience, and the Platform

My dad has always told me I have a one-track mind; if I’ve gotten something into my head, I can’t shake the thought until I’ve discussed it or worked for it and gotten it. Aside from the times when I have to consciously tell myself to not bring something up so I won’t annoy my friends, it’s a fantastic trait that drives me and motivates me to get things done. My weightlifting goals are such a thing. 

Next Level Lifting Wrap-up: I'm Speechless.

On June 11^th, a group of 11 CrossFitters walked into our gym for day 1 of Next Level Lifting, my Olympic weightlifting program at CrossFit 979. Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, they listened as I talked them through the visualization of a lift, the importance of self-belief, and the dangers of setting easily attainable goals (some may call this “being realistic”). The tone was set with a quote from Robert Collier, who said, “Your chances of success in any undertaking can always be measured by your belief in yourself.”

It's You vs You. No one else.

I have lots that I could say, but this'll be quick. Stop comparing yourself to other people.

Technique. Is it worth it?

Though the answer to this question is seemingly obvious, our actions often differ from our immediate responses. 

Do I Need Lifting Shoes?

Weightlifting shoes have grown to become the most popular weightlifting accessory at my gym, and the question of whether or not these shoes are a necessity is nearly inevitable in most athletes as time passes.

My Passion and My Future

You guys, I just want to take a moment to say how insanely excited I am about pursuing my dream of becoming a Strength and Conditioning coach. Every single time I venture off into the world wide web looking at internships, career opportunities, certifications,

Muscle Activation and Muscle Fiber Types

Chapter 1, Part 2/4: The Neuromuscular System (Part 1/2)

Introduction/Overview

Now that we’ve covered the muscular system, we will carry on into the neuromuscular system. Simply put, the neuromuscular system is the relationship of nerve cells (or motor neurons) and the muscle(s) they are connected to, as well as how they work together. Motor neurons are responsible for transmitting the electric current to the muscle, and are connected to the muscles via the motor end plate (aka the “neuromuscular junction”).

How do Muscles Work?

And I'm back again, folks, working to conquer a textbook over the summer. We have a long way to go. Today I present to you:

Chapter 1, Part 1: Structure and Function of the Muscular System (Part 2/2)

Sliding Filament Theory of Muscular Contraction

We left off last time discussing muscles and their makeup in depth. Serious depth, actually. Before we continue on today with part 2 of the muscular system, I want to remind you of our friends actin and myosin, two myofilaments within a myofibril that are in charge of contracting the muscle.  I’m also going to bring this picture back from the other day because it’s awesome.

First on today’s agenda we have the sliding-filament theory, which simply states that

Materialism and The American Dream

America. The land of the free, the home of the brave. And the home of the American Dream. 

Don't get me wrong, I have absolutely nothing against the American Dream. I believe that everyone, regardless of race, gender, social class, or circumstance of birth should have an equal opportunity to succeed. The danger, however, is how we define this success. Today, the American Dream is defined less as "equal opportunity for success" and more as "get a huge house, a nice car, and lots of money." And this is where my heart is deeply troubled. 

Structure and Function of the Muscular System (Part 1/2)

Let me start this blog post off with the following disclaimer: this blog post (as well as all those like it to follow) is more for my own benefit than yours. I’m sorry to be selfish in this way, however as I previously mentioned, one of my goals is to read through my strength and conditioning textbook over the summer, and I’ll be using this blog to hold me accountable. So lucky you, you’ll be getting my own typed-up summary of this book. Maybe by the end, you can just go take the CSCS exam and be certified along with me.

Anyway, if you're interested in this kind of thing, I think I made it somewhat readable. If you're not interested, I apologize. 

Chapter 1, Part 1: Structure and Function of the Muscular System (Part 1/2) 

(wait a second…chapter 1, part 1, part 1 of 2? HOW MANY PARTS ARE THERE?!) 

All exercise involves forces. These forces

Goals.

This summer, I have one simple goal: 

Growth.

Growth spiritually. 
Growth physically.
Growth financially.
Growth relationally.
Growth professionally.

I intend to use this blog to share my journey with you guys, and my hope is that every reader will grow alongside me and will be inspired to set and conquer his or her own goals. Every blog post will be centered around my growth in one of these five areas, and I'll do my best to hit each of them weekly.