Stronglifts: How to Squat

This article covers the five most important points for squatting on Stronglifts. You will learn basic techniques and find material to deepen your knowledge. To start learn a proper walk out, how to build tension and to squat to depth. Learn these techniques one step at a time. For more detail you can always contact me via pascal@marathon-crossfit.com.

Topics: Lift stronger, Stronglifts 5x5, Squat, Fitness, Strength

 

Stronglifts can't squat

 

This article outlines the main reasons why you can't squat and how to fix them. From there you will learn about the personal experiences I had when I started with Stronglifts 5x5. In the end, you will find useful resources to help your thought process to become a better lifter. If you have any questions leave them in the comments or write directly to pascal@marathon-crossfit.com.

Topics: Lift stronger, Stronglifts 5x5, Squat, Strength

Can deadlifts replace the squat?

 

Lots of things can replace the squat for hypertrophy. Nothing can replace it for making you more awesome. Bottom line is that the deadlift cannot replace the squat in most training scenarios. This is due to the fact, that the squat is a quad dominant exercise while the deadlift gets most of its power from your back. This article will outline the goals for which the squat is helpful. You will learn about the reasons why you do not want to squat in more detail. In the end, you will be provided with a list of alternative exercises and tips whether they are a good idea or not. If you already decided on not doing the barbell back squat please skip to "Alternatives to the squat". If you are a beginner you will benefit from reading the entire article. 

Topics: Deadlift, Squat, Powerlifting, Bodybuilding

How to plan your first powerlifting meet

 

Planning your first powerlifting meeting can be overwhelming. Especially if you are not a beast and have to put a bit of thought into it. This article will outline a thought process which will enable you to pick challenging numbers. You will be able to analyze your current results based on data. It is ideally suited for your first meet. Experienced lifters might get some valuable insight on how to pick their attempts based on data. For a quick read look only at the aggregated data and draw your conclusions from there.

Topics: Bench Press, Deadlift, Squat

Can you do Smolov for the bench press? [Article]

The short answer is yes, you can, but you shouldn't. Especially if you are just exploring different programs without really knowing what you are doing. A better option is to use Smolov Jr. to boost your bench press if you have gotten fed up with Starting Strength and Stronglifts and want to try something different. 

If you want the most up to date news or ask direct questions, then you can follow me on Instagram.

Topics: Lift stronger, Smolov, Bench Press, Deadlift, Squat, Powerlifting, Bodybuilding

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

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

 

Smolov for intermediates

 

Smolov is a program which you can consider to prove your manhood. It is one of these things which are stupid to do if you look at it rationally and are yet very cool once you have done them. Intermediates are in my opinion ready for the workload if they do some additional homework I have outlined in this post. Still, I believe, Smolov is the most fun to do and makes the most sense when you are at an elite stage and do not care about competitions.

Topics: Lift stronger, Smolov, Squat, Powerlifting, Bodybuilding, Strongman

Better breathing makes your squat stronger

 

This is the insight from multiple experts on squatting combined with my experience under the bar for the squat. The outlined misconceptions and underused techniques are seldom performed in commercial gyms. If you want to get ahead on your squat, build proper tension through mastering your breath.

Topics: Lift stronger, Squat

 

Smolov for beginners

 

This is an article which outlines whether the Smolov squat routine is suitable  for beginners in lifting. For this the basic principles of strength development are being outlined, measuring of one repetition maximums and their relation to body weight is explained and the knowledge is applied to the question of the article. If you want to save time I do not think the program is for beginners and skip to the conclusion to see why. If you want to know more about how strength is developed and find additional sources please read on.

 

Topics: Lift stronger, Smolov, Squat, Powerlifting, Bodybuilding, Strongman