Deadlift: When to use straps

This article discusses the pros and cons of using lifting straps. You will learn who should use them and when you should stay away from them. You will also be provided with additional material on the deadlift. Beginners should stay away from them. Advanced lifters should be strategic about how they use them. Bodybuilders will get more use out of straps than strength athletes. Have fun with the read and let me know if you have any questions in the comments below.

Topics: Deadlift, Strength, Powerlifting, Bodybuilding, Strongman

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

 

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

 

Smolov for advanced lifters

 

This an overview of Smolov and discussion for advanced lifters. You will first look at whether you meet the criteria of being an advanced lifter and from there the pros and cons of Smolov will be discussed in a non-empirical manner. If you want more detail on the structure of the program please read my Smolov review.

 

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

Selected quotes from Deadlift Dynamite that will make you stronger

These quotes are taken from my notes when I read Deadlift Dynamite to become better at my deadlift. I also wrote an entire review of the book which is linked at the end of the list. Hope you en joy the read and find something instructive or inspiring for your training.

Topics: Lift stronger, Deadlift, Powerlifting, Bodybuilding, Strongman

Best Deadlift Dynamite review which will make you pull more

This is my write up of the Deadlift Dynamite book authored by Pavel Tsatsouline and Andy Bolton. I am currently on a quest to move my deadlift north of 200kg for which this book was ideal. Here is my summary and as always I recommend to buy and read if you want to improve. Everything else is cheating and cheaters do not hit their goals sustainably.

Topics: Lift stronger, Deadlift, Powerlifting, Bodybuilding, Strongman

 

How to energise Stronglifts 5x5 with a complete accessory plan

Stronglifts 5x5 is one of the most popular lifting programs out there. I have done it myself for ten months with big success. Here is what I learned to make it even better regarding accessory work if you want to energise your routine even more. Highly recommended to anyone who got bored with the program or starts to feel like they are struggling with it after half a year.

Topics: Lift stronger, Stronglifts 5x5, Powerlifting, Bodybuilding, Strongman

Try this deadlift thing to get strong like bull 

The deadlift is my favourite lift to do and it will make you a better athlete and maybe even a better person as it is can be quite humbling. All in all, it will make you think about how to do big things by breaking them down into little increments which you conquer one moment at a time.

Topics: Lift stronger, Deadlift, Powerlifting, Bodybuilding, Strongman