Smolov vs Stronglifts 5x5

Programs and anything you do regarding training has to be seen in context to the goal set you are pursuing. I have done both Smolov and Stronglifts 5x5 myself after I changed my main training focus from endurance to strength chasing a 200kg squat, 230kg deadlift and 180 kg bench press at 80kg bodyweight. If you read any material comparing programs, make sure that the author spent some time on putting the programs into context so that they understand the big picture rather than just crunching the numbers. This will be different for each individual based on many factors like age, training and injury history, sleep, nutrition, genetics and stress levels.

 

Topics: Lift stronger, Stronglifts 5x5, Smolov, Bench Press, Deadlift, Squat, Powerlifting, Bodybuilding, Strongman

 

Where do kettlebell swings target?

 

The short answer to this question is "almost everywhere". As this is not really a scientific or very instructional answer I have worked on a more comprehensive breakdown with some anatomical explanations for you. The kettlebell swing is worth the time invested which many seasoned lifters can attest. Andy Bolton uses it and women also seem to like this type of exercise more than working with a barbell

Topics: Lift stronger, Kettlebell

 

 

Which kettlebell weight should I buy?

 

Kettlebells have been gaining in popularity for the last decade. Pavel Tsatsoulin was the main driver of a movement that started from "What you use cowbells to train" to mainstream level with DVD sets delivering kettlebells for free with their program (hint, as this kettlebell comes for free, you guessed it, its crap). This article takes my experience with kettlebells and walks you through the major principles. As I do not own many different kettlebells myself, because I am simple and did my research on my first time purchase, refer to the links at the end of the article if you want to know details about specific models and learn from others.

 

Topics: Lift stronger, Kettlebell

 

Why fitness trackers are useless

 

This article provides you with an in-depth overview of the current wearables market, a use case and real-life examples from someone who has been using fitness trackers for several years. All in all, most fitness trackers lose their usefulness after six months when the trainee moves on to a higher level of fitness and needs a more specialized tool to support progress. The claims that fitness trackers are completely useless are blown out of proportion based on poor research and stupid users. Trackers are not necessary to get fit, but in the right hands, help to reinforce good behavior patterns. The devices become useless because they have fulfilled their purpose or their wearers misused them, not because their design is inherently flawed.

Topics: Fitness

Can fitness be a hobby 

This question is a debate which you may have. Can fitness be a hobby or is it an obligatory mundane task to perform? In this article, you will see that it will be all of the above to you at some stages of your life.

Topics: Fitness

Smolov vs Jim Wendler 531

This write-up compares the Smolov squat program and Jim Wendler 531 for different sports purposes like powerlifting, weightlifting, football, and martial arts. Generally speaking based on my experience with the programs and as a Judoka in my teenage years and aspiring powerlifter in my thirties, Wendler 531 makes a good addition to any athlete's training cycle who wants to build general strength with a barbell while Smolov lacks usefulness because of its single-minded approach and is still fun to do once in your life to test your mind and body.

Topics: Jim Wendler 5/3/1, Smolov, Bench Press, Deadlift, Squat, Powerlifting, Bodybuilding, Strongman

Where to buy kettlebell sets?

 

For the impatient, skip to the end of this post to find links to places where you can buy kettlebells. For everyone who came here to learn and shorten their research process from two days to one read of a post, get the details. I personally swing a 32kg kettlebell with no problem and have been following the simple and sinister program by Pavel Tsatsoulin religiously for a year. 

 

Topics: Lift stronger, Kettlebell

30 colossal John Lassater quotes that will make you laugh and think

Did you enjoy Toy story and the other Pixar movies together with your kids and friends or by yourself? The person behind all of this running the show is John Lasseter he feels like he doesn’t work at all as the CEO and Steve Job’s named him the heart and soul of Pixar

Topics: Think Deeper

How to get the most out of your concept2 rows

 

This is a short write up on how I structure my rows using intervals. Simple and easy to perform two times a week.

Topics: Fitness

Why fitness matters to me

 

Fitness has become one of the pillars of my life to be more functioning and happy overall. The regime started with preparing for the Dublin Marathon in 2013 helped me to develop as a professional, husband and father. Here are the main points to help you to find the reasons why you will start your fitness journey to a better, more fulfilling life.

Topics: Fitness