Blog
Resistance Training Foundations: How to Progress Safely and Build Real Strength
Resistance training isn’t just for bodybuilders. Whether you’re just starting out, returning after a break, or training for performance, knowing how to build a smart
How to Taper in Strength Training
Unless a planned layoff follows a training cycle, you should always taper in the final workout by performing 30–50% fewer sets than the previous session.
The Variability With Supplements
Why do some people experience great results with certain supplements while others do not? Let’s look beyond the obvious—where one person may have a greater
Dumbbell Side Step-Up
Start with a low step beside you and use only your bodyweight at first. As your strength and stability improve, you can progress to holding
The Ideal Time Under Tension for Muscle Hypertrophy
In strength training, time under tension (TUT), sometimes called time under load, refers to the total duration of a set. It’s calculated by multiplying the
More Important Than Getting New Clients
Getting new clients is important, but keeping existing clients is essential! One of my favorite sitcoms, The Office, has an episode titled “The Fire,” where
Accommodating Assistance on the Nordic Hamstring Curl
Back in the mid-1950s, Dr. Arthur Steindler introduced the concepts of open kinetic chain (OKC) and closed kinetic chain (CKC) movements. In simple terms, an
To All Pork Lovers
Next time you cook pork, make sure to marinate it first. I came across an interesting study in the Fall 2011 issue of Wise Traditions
A Universal Language for Strength Training
Much like writing software or music, strength training requires a universal language of program design. Trainers need a consistent prescription format to ensure consistent results.
Kiss The Baby For A Proper Push-Up
The push-up is one of the most poorly executed exercises. One major issue is core stability—many people resemble a dolphin “swimming” through their reps. The
How to Deal with Exercises that Don't Work for You or Your Clients
If an exercise doesn’t work for you or a client, then change it! No one is forcing you to stick with it. There are many
Pay Now or Pay Later
In his article The Taxation of Supplements, Shawn Buckley makes several excellent points, including the following: This reminds me of an eye-opening moment with a
What Is Your Time Worth?
After weeks of plummeting prices, the cost of gas is rising again in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). It reminds me of when I started
Bedtime Muscle-Building Concoction
I love studying the roots of the iron game, especially bodybuilding history. Over the years, I’ve written about many pioneers who paved the way for
Preacher Bench External Rotations: A ShoulderHorn Alternative
Many lifters struggle with an imbalance between the internal and external rotators of the shoulder. Most of the time, the internal rotators (pecs, lats, and
Is Occlusion Training Even Necessary?
Occlusion training, also known as blood flow restriction (BFR) training, involves restricting blood flow to working muscles during exercise to enhance muscle growth. While this
A Tudor Bompa Strategy To Help Personal Trainers Retain New Clients
To lift a weight, muscular force must exceed the downward force of the load. The opposite occurs when lowering a weight—motor units deactivate until the
Which Physique Do You Prefer: The New Spartacus Or The Old Bosco?
One of my favorite TV shows was the Spartacus series on Starz, which ran from 2010 to 2013. The first season (Blood and Sand) and
Holiday Gift Ideas for Clients
When choosing end-of-year gifts for clients, put some thought into it. Every year, we focus on a theme. In addition to our signature clothing, books,
Should You Train When You’re Sore?
In strength training, objective measures ultimately determine recovery. If progress has been made, then sufficient recovery has occurred. You’ll know by the first set: An
The Late Cancellation Jar
Not feeling up to a workout? Do it anyway! I just had a client walk in dragging her feet. She was sluggish and not really