Everything Matters and Everything Is Connected
Just today someone asked about my “coaching philosophy.” That's not even bullshit. Seriously, someone did ask me. But do take note, when you read “people always ask me...” you can comfortably assume there’s a trailer load of horseshit on the way. Anyway, after I was asked, I ended up thinking a lot about it and decided it was this: “Everything Matters.” Not exactly “go heavy or go home” or “if...
The *Actual* Fundamentals of Physique Progress
As a coach, one of the biggest lessons you learn is that folks tend to think they’re way more advanced than they really are. On a scale of 1-10 in terms of development (with 10 being a Pro, and 1 being a rookie) most believe they’re in the 7-8 range, and just need a few cutting edge secrets to get to 9 or beyond. I mean they’ve been working out for YEARS, how could they not be upper-tier, right?...
The New Hybrid Workout Program
The gyms are back open! Sure, you might have to deal with scheduling workouts and social distancing protocols. Who cares? You're back in your happy place, your iron sanctuary, your— —or... maybe not yet? After a few months away and a whole lot of adapting, folks are starting to dig training at home. At least that's what many clients are telling me. Which is surprising considering how out of sort...
The Washington Redtails
The Washington Redtails. Clever. Hits a lot of notes (military, black history) most everyone could get behind. Even keeps "red" in the mix for easy brand reckoning. Years ago I had a Native Studies prof who was an OG in the "pro sport teams should change their names" movement. However, she didn't have a problem with names like Sioux or Blackhawks or even Indians and Chiefs. If anything naming...
Reframing the “Alpha” Male (based on research that ISN’T BS)
A well-worn cliche in strength training and bodybuilding circles is the Alpha Male: the dominant leader of the group. Alpha stems from the theory of the pack-leading Alpha Wolf, which was famously observed by animal researchers studying pack wolf behavior. Over the years the term has been used to describe many positive characteristics of masculinity — being bold, confident, and protective — but...
I’m getting older. Again. 🎂
As the title says: I'm getting older. 🎂 This has made me self-reflect on what I've learned about training over 40. I've even come around and changed my approach on a few ideas. So, with that as the setup, here are five key thoughts: * * * 1. As I move closer to 50 than 40 (good Lord) I realize how silly most of the age-related "truths & rules" of training really are. Apparently if you're...
Anthony Bourdain: Simplicity + Perfection
It was a rainy Saturday in June. I spent it with my kid and an Anthony Bourdain retrospective on in the background. Bourdain's life was well-travelled and well-lived and, sadly, way too short. I miss him. I drew inspiration watching him grow. He seemed to become more honest while caring less about trends and, especially, what other people thought. His arc was a rare full circle: despite heralded...