The ability to perform a proper chin-up—grabbing an overhead bar and pulling yourself up until your chin clears it—is a struggle for many. Some see it as impossible, but with the right training approach, reaching 20 chin-ups is an attainable goal. Here’s how to do it. The Key Factors for Chin-Up Success 1. Body Weight…
“Chin up… Chest out… Look straight ahead… Brace the abdominals… Grip the bar tight… Push the ground away through all four corners of your feet… Drive the hips forward as you clear your knees… Stand tall… Control the lowering… Gently touch the ground, pause, and go again…” “Oh yeah, don’t forget to breathe!” Strength training…
Q: In your article The Russian Approach to Size and Strength T-Nation Archive, you mention “decrease the load by 5% each set” in one section, but in others, no percentage is specified. When it’s left blank, does that mean the weight stays the same? A: It depends on the sequencing method used.
With the right approach, bodybuilding can be one of the best things you do for your body, mind, and spirit. In an inspiring TED Talk, Charles Eugster explains why rebuilding your body as you age isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential. Here are some key takeaways from his talk: Not only does Eugster look phenomenal…
Muscle mass naturally declines as you age, starting in your late twenties. However, bodybuilding is one of the most effective ways to counteract this process. It’s an excellent anti-aging tool for both men and women. But taken to the extreme, bodybuilding can actually accelerate aging and may even contribute to an early death. The Downside…
A common mistake during step-ups is pushing off with the non-working leg, either by extending the knee or ankle. To correct this, keep the knee locked, the ankle in dorsiflexion (toes up), and tap the floor with the heel only. I picked up this tip years ago from strength coach Charles Poliquin, who learned it…
In a research article titled Ethnopharmacology and Male Bodybuilders’ Lived Experience with Consuming Sports Nutrition Supplements in Canada, Brian Bailey found that bodybuilders often rely on personal experience and trusted sources when choosing sports nutrition supplements. (Read more here.) Bailey also noted a growing body of research on supplement efficacy in trained athletes. Among the…
Some muscles may not be visible, but training them can enhance the appearance of larger muscle groups. Strengthening the pectoralis minor, brachialis, and soleus can help your chest, arms, and calves “pop out” more. A highly effective method for targeting these muscles is the 10×10 system—10 sets of 10 reps per exercise. This approach has…
See that swimsuit above? I used to fit in that before my biceps surgery—now I’m swimming in it! My waist shrunk, but not because of diet. It’s the result of not lifting as heavy anymore. Most people don’t realize just how much the abdominals engage during heavy compound and isolation movements. For years, my core…
Thick-bar training has gained traction over the years, and for good reason—it rapidly improves grip strength and overall strength. You’ve probably heard of training tools like TylerGrip, Fat Gripz, EZ Grips, and Grips FEAR attachments. But there’s another way to challenge your grip and forearms: use kettlebells… in an unconventional way! How to Perform Cannonbell…