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Barbell, Kettlebell, and Dumbbell Complexes to Take Your Body to a New Level of Hardness and Conditioning

Editor — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 14:29:05 +0000

Barbell, Kettlebell, and Dumbbell Complexes to Take Your Body to a New Level of Hardness and Conditioning

by Mike Geary, Certified Nutrition Specialist, Certified Personal Trainer

If you’ve been looking for a different training technique to break out of a rut, eliminate the boredom, and bring on new results, “complexes” may be just what you’ve been looking for.

If you’ve never heard of “complexes” before, the basic concept is that instead of repeating the same exercise for multiple reps to complete a “set”, you sequence one rep of several different exercises right after one another and repeat the sequence several times to complete a “set”. It’s basically like performing a routine, instead of just mindlessly performing a typical “set”.

This type of training is excellent to work a huge amount of musculature in a short amount of time, and definitely takes your workouts to a whole new level of intensity. The conditioning aspect of this type of training is amazing, as you’ll find yourself huffing and puffing after repeating a sequence a mere two or three times.

If I had to venture a guess, I’d have to say that this type of training probably elicits a good growth hormone response as well, due to the large amount of full body work completed in a given time period. But that’s just my guess.

I like to incorporate about 5 exercises into my complexes. Any more than that and you might start to forget what’s next in the sequence. Here’s an example of a killer barbell complex that really gets me fired up:

Example Barbell Complex

high pull from floor (explosive deadlift right into upright row in one motion);
barbell back to thighs, then hang clean (explosively pull bar from knees and “catch” the bar at shoulders);
barbell back to floor, then clean & jerk;
barbell back to thighs, bend over, then bent over row;
barbell back to thighs, then finish with Romanian deadlift

For example, say you completed the above complex with 155-lbs for 3 sequences per set for 3 sets in today’s workout. Next time you perform the workout, try to do 155-lbs for 3 sequences per set for 4 sets. Once you successfully complete 5 sets with 155, increase the weight 5 or 10 lbs next time, and drop back to 3 sets. This is a great way to make improvements over time, while cycling your training volume.

Now I’m going to show you a great kettlebell complex that really kicks my butt. If you don’t have a kettlebell, you can use a dumbbell, but I’d highly recommend picking yourself up a kettlebell… very convenient to have around when you want to bang out a quick intense workout at home without going to the gym.

I’ve been training with kettlebells for a little over a year now, and can definitely say that they’ve dramatically improved my strength, body composition, and overall physical capabilities. If you’re not familiar with kettlebells, they are an old eastern European training secret that has just started to take the US by storm over the last few years. Many elite athletes are using kettlebells as their preferred training tool for serious results. Learn more info and pick up one of your own body-hardening kettlebells here.

I’d recommend just starting off with one bell and learn all of the single kettlebell drills first, before delving into the double-bell drills. Just one kettlebell coupled with some bodyweight exercises can literally be enough to comprise your own home gym, without any other equipment necessary. Or a kettlebell can just be a great alternative workout to incorporate into your routines once or twice a week. Either way, it opens up a whole new world of training for you.

Example Kettlebell Complex

one arm swing
one arm snatch, keep the bell over head;
one arm overhead squat;
bell back down to bottom, then one arm high pull;
bell back down to bottom, then one arm clean & press

As with the barbell complex, repeat the sequence (without rest) 2-3 times with each arm. That’s one set…and one hell of a killer set at that! Try increasing from 3 to 4 to 5 sets on subsequent workouts with a given weight before increasing your sequence reps. If you’re not drenched in sweat with your heart beating out of your chest after that complex, you either went too light, or you are a mutant freak!

Since dumbbells are more accessible to most people than kettlebells, now I’ll show you how to put together a good dumbbell complex.

Example Dumbbell Complex

upright row with each arm separately then both together
front lunge with one leg, then the other
back lunge with one leg, then the other
curl to overhead press
keep dumbbells at shoulders and squat

Again, the same type of sequencing and progressions explained with the barbell complexes work great with the dumbbell complexes. I think a great strategy is to alternate barbell complexes on one day with kettlebell or dumbbell complexes on alternative training days.

For example, you could do barbell complexes Monday, K-bell or D-bell complexes Wednesday, and back to barbell complexes on Friday. Maybe hit some sprints and bodyweight drills on Saturday; then Monday would be K-bell or D-bell complexes again, Wednesday would be barbells again, and so on. Give this program a try for a month (if you dare), and you will be one hardened individual!

For more killer full body training routines and a fully comprehensive nutritional analysis for developing the body you’ve always wanted, don’t miss out on my internationally best selling program with users in over 150 countries, The Truth about Six Pack Abs.

Do You Really Need “Cardio” Workouts?

Supertraining — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 08:45:24 +0000

Do You Really Need “Cardio” Workouts?

by Mike Geary, Certified Nutrition Specialist, Certified Personal Trainer

In this article, I have an intriguing discussion about cardio workouts, which will hopefully get you thinking differently, and trying new things.

You may know I’ve been called the anti-cardio guy before, but this week I’m back posing the question to you… Do you really need cardio training to get lean and in great shape? By the way, you’ll see in a minute that I’m not really “anti-cardio”, just “anti traditional cardio”.

Most fitness buffs, weekend warriors, or anyone trying to get in shape or lose body fat, consider it a fact that they need “cardio” exercise to accomplish these goals. They would never even question it. However, I’m not only questioning it, I’m going to refute it! In fact, you may be surprised to know that some of the leanest and meanest people I know (men and women), NEVER do any type of normal or traditional cardio. And I’ve spent over 15 years working out in various gyms, and hanging out with athletes of all sorts, so I’ve seen it all.

I will say that there can be a place for low-moderate level cardio for really overweight or deconditioned people, but even in those cases, there can be more effective methods.

But what exactly is “cardio”? Most people would consider cardio to be pumping away mindlessly on a treadmill, riding a stationary bike, or coasting on an elliptical machine, while watching the TV screen at their state of the art gym. This is what I call “traditional cardio”. Hmmm, no wonder the majority of people get bored with their workouts and give up after a couple months without seeing results.

But if you look closer, “cardio” exercise can be considered any type of exercise or activity that strengthens the cardiovascular system. I’m not going to get into anything technical like increasing your VO2 max or anything like that. To keep it simple, if it gets your heart pumpin, and gets you huffin and puffin, it’s cardio. I don’t care if you’re holding dumbbells or a barbell and everyone calls it a weight training exercise…it’s still conditioning your heart.

Let’s take a look at a couple examples. Take a barbell (or dumbbell, or kettlebell) clean & press for example, which involves lifting a barbell from the floor up to shoulders, then push pressing overhead. And listen up ladies, because even though this is usually seen as a manly exercise, it doesn’t matter if you’re not lifting 250 lbs; if 45 lbs is challenging to you, then you will still benefit just as much.

At first glance, most people think of the barbell C&P only as a weight training exercise or strength exercise. However, I challenge you to do a hard set of around 10-15 reps on the C&P. If you used a challenging enough weight, what you’ll find is that your heart rate is probably up to about 80-90% of your recommended max, and you are huffing and puffing like you just ran a 100-meter sprint (which by the way, sprinting kicks the crap out of jogging any day if you want the easiest way to lose the flab).

Try the same thing for a set of 20 reps of one-arm snatches or swings with each arm with a kettlebell or dumbbell, and tell me your legs aren’t burning, heart racing, and you’re gasping for breath. How about trying 5 minutes straight of bodyweight squats, lunges, and pushups with very little rest. Again, notice your heart pounding, sweat pouring off of you, and chest heaving for breaths!

Try and tell me you’re not conditioning your heart with this style of training! Conventional thinking says that these are weight training or strength training exercises. However, they are fullfilling your cardio workout needs as well.

Not only do you save time, but you strengthen and condition almost every muscle in your entire body with these full body exercises if you do them with enough intensity…something that can’t be said for that boring stationary bike ride or treadmill jaunt while reading or watching TV. Seriously, if you can read or watch TV while doing any exercise, you’re not concentrating enough on what you’re doing, plus you’re probably not working out hard enough to see any real results.

I challenge you to give the “traditional cardio” a rest for a month or two, and start training the way I explain in my internationally-selling Truth about Six pack Abs Program, and see how you start getting leaner, more defined, and your six pack starting to show through what used to be stubborn stomach fat deposits.

New Weight Training Technique Delivers Amazing Results with Barbells, Kettlebells, or Dumbbells

Supertraining — Thu, 22 Nov 2007 07:24:10 +0000

If you’ve been looking for a different training technique to break out of a rut, eliminate the boredom, and bring on new results, “complexes” may be just what you’ve been looking for. If you’ve never heard of “complexes” before, the basic concept is that instead of repeating the same exercise for multiple reps to complete a “set”, you sequence one rep of several different exercises right after one another and repeat the sequence several times to complete a “set”. No, this is NOT circuit training…it’s much different. It’s basically like performing a routine, instead of just mindlessly performing a typical “set”. This type of training is excellent to work a huge amount of musculature in a short amount of time, and definitely takes your workouts to a whole new level of intensity. The conditioning aspect of this type of training is amazing, as you’ll find yourself huffing and puffing after repeating a sequence a mere two or three times. If I had to venture a guess, I’d have to say that this type of training probably elicits a good growth hormone response as well, due to the large amount of full body work completed in a given time period. But that’s just my guess.

Example Barbell Complex

1. high pull from floor (explosive deadlift right into upright row in one motion);

2. barbell back to thighs, then hang clean (explosively pull bar from knees and “catch” the bar at shoulders);

3. barbell back to floor, then clean & jerk;

4. barbell back to thighs, bend over, then bent over row;

5. barbell back to thighs, then finish with Romanian deadlift

Use a weight that you can still handle for your weakest lift of the bunch, but keep it heavy enough to challenge you. Try to repeat the sequence 2-3 times without resting… That’s 1 set. You could progress over time on this routine by increasing the amount of times you repeat the sequence in each set, or by adding sets on subsequent workouts before eventually increasing the weight. For example, say you completed the above complex with 155-lbs for 3 sequences per set for 3 sets in today’s workout. Next time you perform the workout, try to do 155 lbs for 3 sequences per set for 4 sets. Once you successfully complete 5 sets with 155, increase the weight 5 or 10 lbs next time, and drop back to 3 sets. This is a great way to make improvements over time, while cycling your training volume.

Now I’m going to show you a great kettlebell complex that really kicks my butt. I’ve been training with kettlebells for a little over a year now, and can definitely say that they’ve dramatically improved my strength, body composition, and overall physical capabilities. If you’re not familiar with kettlebells, they are an old eastern European training secret that has just started to take the US by storm over the last few years. Many elite athletes are using kettlebells as their preferred training tool for serious results. Learn more info and pick up one of your own body-hardening kettlebells at http://truthaboutabs.com/fitness-products.html. I’d recommend just starting off with one bell and learn all of the single kettlebell drills first, before delving into the double-bell drills. Just one kettlebell coupled with some bodyweight exercises can literally be enough to comprise your own home gym, without any other equipment necessary. Or you can just incorporate kettlebell training into your normal training routine once or twice a week to shake up your routine and stimulate new results.

Example Kettlebell Complex

1. one arm swing

2. one arm snatch, keep the bell over head;

3. one arm overhead squat;

4. bell back down to bottom, then one arm split snatch;

5. bell back down to bottom, then one arm clean & press

Alright, since most people will have easier access to dumbbells instead of kettlebells, now I’ll show you how to compile a good dumbbell complex.

Example Dumbbell Complex

1. upright row with each arm separately, then both together;

2. front lunge with one leg, then the other;

3. back lunge with one leg, then the other;

4. curl to overhead press;

5. keep dumbbells at shoulders and squat

Again, the same type of sequencing and progressions work great with the dumbbell complexes. I think a great strategy is to alternate barbell complexes on one day with kettlebell or dumbbell complexes on alternative training days. For example, you could do barbell complexes Monday, K-bell or D-bell complexes Wednesday, and back to barbell complexes on Friday. Maybe hit some sprints and bodyweight drills on Saturday; then Monday would be K-bell or D-bell complexes again, Wednesday would be barbells again, and so on. Give this program a try for a month (if you dare), and you will be one hardened individual!

For more killer full body training routines and a fully comprehensive nutritional analysis for developing the body you’ve always wanted, check out http://truthaboutabs.com

About The Author

Visit http://truthaboutabs.com/Training-and-Nutrition-Articles.html to receive your own personalized metabolic rate calculator as well as 5 of my secret hard-body workout routines – both FREE, with no purchase necessary.

Weight Training Workout Programs – Build Muscle Mass

Supertraining — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 07:46:03 +0000

Weight training is a common type of strength training for developing the strength and size of skeletal muscles. Weight training is one type of strength training, but the most common and is seen by all but specialists as synonymous with strength training. It is primarily an isotonic form of exercise, as the force produced by the muscle to push or pull weighted objects should not change (though in practice the force produced does decrease as muscles fatigue). Get this- weight training is a proven life changer. Choosing a weight training workout program will be crucial in getting results over a period of time and in building muscle mass. In addition to the basic principles of weight training, a further consideration is the equipment used. Although weight training is similar to bodybuilding, they have different objectives. Weight trainers tend to focus on compound exercises to build basic strength, whereas bodybuilders often use isolation exercises to visually separate their muscles, and to improve muscular symmetry. While there is always a certain level of risk involved studies have shown that weight training is actually one of the safest sporting activities around. Realize that weight training is the best way to change the way you look but it takes time.

How Do Muscles Work?

Muscles work less efficiently when they are moving quickly – higher forces can be produced with slow movements – such as weight lifting and development of high speed requires adaptation of the physical capability of the muscle, and the neurological control mechanisms. Muscle building and impact exercise strengthens bone by muscle and tendons impacting on the bone at the attachment points and producing growth stimulation. Muscle is the primary vehicle the human body uses to burn calories. It is just a myth that muscle weighs more than fat. Muscles grow longer more quickly than tendons. Muscles crave oxygen to recharge for the next rep, so keep this in mind. Weight training does allow a tremendous flexibility in exercises and weights which can allow bodybuilders to target specific muscles and muscle groups, and attain specific goals. For example, the squat and the deadlift are used to exercise the largest muscles in the body–the leg and buttock muscles–so they require substantial weight. Individuals who perform large numbers of repetitions, sets and exercises for each muscle group may experience lactic acid build-up in their muscles.

Precautions for Lifting Before Starting Weight Training Workout

Lifting dumbbells is the simplest and most basic form of weight training. Lifting weights isn’t just for “muscle-heads” anymore. Lifting too much too soon is sure-fire way to pick up an injury. Lifting free weights improves your co-ordination by improving the neuromuscular pathways that connect your muscles to the central nervous system. Lifting 10 kilograms using a dumbbell requires significantly more force than moving 10 kilograms on a weight stack due to the use of pulleys. But try the latest craze of kettlebells as well. In many ways, these are more effective than the traditional dumbbells.

Whatever your objectives- whether you want to build muscle mass over a long period or gain short term results in strengthening your body, the link below will provide a lot of the answers for you .

What if I Get Bored With Sandbag Training Workouts?

Supertraining — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 07:45:01 +0000

Sandbag Training is great for your cardio workouts, strength training, weight loss and toning, plus range of motion exercises! Can you get bored with all of this? No way! There’s so much you can do you’ll never run out of ideas. However if you want more, use your sandbag and just add a few great notions to the mix.

Let’s just add one great way to change up your workouts-get outside. Nothing is better than working out in the fresh air and sunshine. You hear the birds singing to you, and here come the dogs to help with your workout. Enjoy the spring time and its warm weather.

Two major points to consider when you think about fitness:

Always try to take your training to the next level. Strive each training session to do a little more.
You’ve got to have variety in your workouts. You never want to get stagnate in your training. Mix it up.

Variety will help with above and help you get back on track. Let’s look at how to do this.

“Ok, what do I do now that I’m outside”?

Here are a few of the great tools to use along with your sandbag;

Medicine balls-they’re always fun to throw around
Sled Dragging
Clubbells (a weighted bat)
kettlebells (these look like a bowling ball with a handle)
Weight vest training

Let your imagination run wild!

“Well that sounds good, but I don’t have a lot of time to be outside during the day.”

Here’s a thought-do mini workouts through out the day. During your break time, go outside and do some jumping jacks, squats, lunges, climb the stairs, etc. Heck, go out of your office door, take a left and walk for five minutes then turn around & come back. There is ten minutes of quick exercise. Nowhere does it say you can only exercise once per day.

“Ok, I do have the weekend but there’s usually other things to do, my ‘honey do’ list. What can I do?”

Easy. Do some yard work. If you’re like me my yard can always use some help.

Clean it up.
Fill up a wheelbarrow and walk with it.
Carry wood across the yard over your head, then stack it up.
Dig a hole then fill it up.
Rake leaves.
Build a fence or a wall or whatever you can think of.

The best thing you can do is to get active. Add to your training program or routine. Change things up so you do not become idle. You want to be a “doer”.

Getting outside is one of the best ways to charge up your exercising. Mother Nature is giving us a great view. Use it to your advantage in your training. I think you’ll enjoy the difference.

About the Author

Tracey has a strong interest in fitness /nutrition, and is an avid martial artist. Tracey
is a researcher and writer on many health related issues. Please visit http://www.sandbagtrainingreview.com to learn more.

You May Ask – Are Kettlebells Good Strength Training Equipment?

Supertraining — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 08:46:44 +0000

Most people would look very puzzled if you told them you use kettlebells for strength training. You would have to explain what a kettlebell is and what it does.

Everyone who is involved in a strength training program agrees that good strength training equipment is worth its weight in gold. Are kettlebells good strength training equipment? The answer is a resounding “Yes!”

Are kettlebells Good Strength Training Equipment For All Sports?

It is important to thoroughly understand the purpose of a kettlebell. A kettlebell is aptly named. It is a cast iron weight that looks like a cannonball that has a handle on top. It was originally developed in Russia and is considered one of the most effective training tools available on the market.

It is for use by people serious about developing muscle strength. Answering the question “Are kettlebells good strength training equipment?” leads to a list of the advantages to using them in a fitness program.

- Can be used for proper muscle development for any sport or athletic activity

- Combines development of strength and flexibility

- Provides overall muscle development

- Improves grip strength

- Improves fat to lean mass ratio

- Defines physique

- Expands stamina

There are obviously many benefits to using kettlebells by competitors in training. But there are many people equally serious about muscle development who never join a competition or participate in athletics on a regular basis.

But when we ask the question again, “Are kettlebells good strength training equipment?” the answer does not change. They can be used in any serious fitness program that focuses on strength training.

Are kettlebells Good Strength Training Equipment for John Doe?

kettlebells come in various weight sizes. Like any program that uses weights, you build your muscle strength through practice, repetitions and regular effort. kettlebells are perfect for the person who wants to seriously train, but not invest a lot of money and space on equipment.

The iron weights replace a variety of traditional exercise equipment including dumbbells, medicine balls and grip devices. It also offers overall body fitness that benefits anyone interested in good health. Are kettlebells good strength training equipment? Judge for yourself!

- Improves back strength

- Strengthens shoulders

- Reduces chances of injury through development of joint flexibility

- Strengthens arms and grip

The benefits of training with kettlebells apply to anyone who needs muscle strength, flexibility and endurance. Now ask yourself, “Are kettlebells good strength training equipment?” and see if you don’t agree they are a remarkable and effective tool.

Are kettlebells Good Strength Training for Jane Doe?

You know that kettlebells are great weight training equipment for men. But are kettlebells good strength training equipment for women? The answer is “yes” again. Women get just as much benefit from using kettlebells as men. The only difference is that they normally start training with a smaller weight.

There are kits and videos and manuals available for purchase that explain how to get the most benefit from training with kettlebells. Using Russian kettlebells you can develop the physique you have always wanted. The answer is always a yes when asking, “Are kettlebells good strength training equipment?”

Lynn VanDyke is a leading fitness and nutrition expert. Her clients range from stay-at-home moms to elite athletes. Visit this page to get more info about kettlebells and strength training.

Are Kettlebells For You (part 2)?

Supertraining — Sun, 26 Aug 2007 02:35:52 +0000

How To Stop Being The Average American!
by: Dr. Wendy Schauer, DC, RKC

Part 1 can be found here.

Are kettlebells For You?

You may be wondering if kettlebells can work for you. Start by thinking about exercise programs or products you have tried in the past. Now consider the characteristics and benefits of kettlebells and decide for yourself.

1. They are easy to use. You don’t have to add weight onto a machine or change elastic bands. You don’t have to know how to dance or have rhythm. Once you have learned the correct technique for two simple moves – the ‘snatch’ and the ‘swing’ – you are ready to go. There is not a big learning curve.

2. They can be used anywhere. Kettlebell exercise requires very little space. I started working out in a hallway near my living room, which was a very small area. I have worked out in my garage, the parking lot at my office, in my yard, and in a hotel room. kettlebells are small enough to take anywhere and you can store yours under your bed, under your desk, behind a door, or in your car.

3. They are effective. You will work on your cardio, strength, and flexibility in just 15-20 minutes a day. Most of us who worked out in the gym are used to isolating muscles. When doing a bicep curl you use the bicep only and no other muscle. That’s why it takes so long to do all the exercises in a gym. With kettlebells you use all the muscles in your body to perform the exercises. There are no separate exercises because the butt, abs, legs, and arms all get worked at the same time.

4. They are challenging and fun. People stop going to the gym because it gets old. I usually will stop an exercise six months after I start because I get bored and I don’t get the changes I expected. I have been doing kettlebells four times per week for a year and I haven’t gotten bored yet. There are so many exercise choices that you never lose interest. Figure eights, cleans, clean and jerk, hot potato, lunges… the list goes on. If an exercise is fun, gives you results and isn’t time consuming you will stick with it. That exercise is kettlebells.

5. They will strengthen your weak or strained areas. I’m a Chiropractor, and recognize that kettlebells strengthened my spine and core so that I no longer have back pain. I tried pilates, yoga, weight lifting, treadmill, elliptical, bicycle, walking and aerobics –all of them worsened my pain. With kettlebells I am now pain-free. I have clients with shoulder pain, hip pain, back pain, and neck pain. Many of my patients have been to multiple physical therapists, chiropractors, massage therapists, acupuncturists some with minimal change in their pain. All have experienced improvement by using kettlebells. I got my Russian Kettlebell Certification (RKC), not just to teach the average person, but to help my patients when they had no quality of life due to pain and weakness. It warms my heart when I see someone’s life start to change.

6. They will save you money. I’m not talking about the price of the kettlebell. I am talking about the money you will save on doctor bills. When I injured my back there was an entire year when I was being seen 3-4 times per week for chiropractic adjustments, 2-3 times a month for acupuncture and twice a month for massage. That sure adds up. The kettlebell price is also very reasonable considering it will last a lifetime – you can’t wear them out!

7. They will help you break out of the box! They will prevent you from being a typical American. You will no longer be able to sit at your desk for longer than 20 minutes because you will notice how strange it feels not to move. You will begin to eat better because you will take more pride in your body. When you are pushing your body to new limits it begins to naturally crave different sources of fuel. You will be fit, energized and happy because your body will be functioning at a higher level.

The Power to Break Out of Your Box

How can kettlebells change your life? They will give you power. Physically you will be stronger than you ever imagined. But you will also be amazed at the other changes in your life. I have become more powerful in all areas of my life. My business is better, my interactions with others have improved, my whole outlook on life is better. I have a sense of confidence and know I can do anything I want to. Bring on whatever life has to offer…because I’m ready. kettlebells have given me this power. I want you to experience these same changes for yourself. It’s time to pick up your kettlebell now and stop being the average American!

Disclaimer: The above parties are not responsible in any manner whatsoever for any injury or health condition that may occur through following the opinions expressed here. Consult with your physician before starting any exercise program.

About The Author

Dr. Wendy M. Schauer, DC, RKC, FICPA, is the President of Community Chiropractic, PS and Co-Founder of Abundant Fitness Center, PS in Olympia, Washington. Dr. Wendy is available for speaking engagements as well as radio and television interviews. She can be reached via her website http://www.AbundantFitnessCenter.com or by phone at 360.556.6633.

The Power of Stretching

Supertraining — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 21:27:39 +0000

Your muscles ache from a good stretch. This is quite normal and is part of the process. Stretching has seemingly been with us and particular with athletes since the beginning of time.

A very key point to good stretching is to hold the stretch for at least seventeen seconds. This is a pearl of wisdom gleaned from a ballet teacher a few years back. She said that any stretch under 17 seconds was just not effective.

The 17 second rule is exceeded in the high intensity Bikram’s yoga where stretches are held for about 30 seconds. Don’t forget the high level of heat that is used in Bikram’s to extract that last little bit of stretch out of your muscles. An interesting twist that is not necessary to gain benefits from stretching. But, it can’t hurt, right?

So what kind of benefits can you expect from stretching? That’s an easy one. Have you ever seen the movie, Blood Sport? Did you know that Frank Dux could truly stretch his body to the extreme. The actor that played him was quite elastic as well.

Great elasticity is also something you might see in well trained Spetsnaz(Russian)agents. They often work out with Russian kettlebells too. They are for superior strength gains and the ability to withstand ballistic shocks.

Why are stretching and flexibility considered important to these people? Stretching gives one the ability to have explosive power available at one’s fingertips without the need to warm up. Of course most of us are not martial artists or agents. But, you’ll be happy to know there are plenty of other benefits.

Let me give you an example. After learning to sit in the full lotus position for long periods of time, my ankles became very flexible. One day I was walking along and my left foot fell into a pothole. This mishap pushed my ankle sideways to about 90 degrees from it’s normal position.

Amazingly, this didn’t even hurt, not one bit. If my ankle hadn’t been so flexible, I may have suffered a sprained ankle. At the very least, it would have hurt for days.

Key point: stretching helps us to avoid injuries. Not only that but if you do have a muscle, tendon or ligament injury it should heal faster, theoretically speaking.

Stretching actually grows the ligaments, tendons and muscles being stretched. They really grow longer over time. Check with your physician before undertaking any type of exercise, including stretching.

Are Kettlebells For You (part 1)?

Supertraining — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 17:53:08 +0000

How To Stop Being The Average American!
by: Dr. Wendy Schauer, DC, RKC

Part 2 can be found here.

Break Out of Your Box!

The average American lifestyle goes something like this: We drive to work in a box, we sit for 8 hours inside a box (affectionately referred to by some as a cubicle), we drive home in a box, then we sit in front of our box TV (and if we’re really doing well in life it’s actually more of a flat rectangle), we throw a box dinner in the microwave and then go hop in our box bed for sleep. This cycle continues day after day, week after week.

Some may try to vary the routine or change their state of mind by drinking an alcoholic beverage or eating tons of sugar, but this will never give them the feeling of well-being that good health and fitness can provide. There is just no way that an overweight body which is oxygen-deprived can be happy. No wonder we are a country of fat, exhausted, and depressed people. WE HAVE TO BREAK OUT OF OUR BOXES!

Oh I have had my own moments of being fat, exhausted, or depressed. At times I would be out of breath just going up 14 stairs to the second floor of my home. How depressing is that? Well, I didn’t remain in that condition forever, and I much prefer my life now – fit, energized, and happy. Believe it or not, a large part of the answer to my troubles was discovered with kettlebells and the multiple health benefits they provide.

Not Your Average Exercise

There is no other exercise out there that tones your body like kettlebells do. They provide a unique combination of strength and cardio exercise to build endurance and stamina like no other workout. It is hard not to feel good when your body is being pumped full of oxygen and you are using muscles like they were meant to be used. I dare you to come to one of my classes and then tell me you’re depressed afterwards – it’s simply not possible! I have exercised my entire life but I have never felt so fully alive until I started working out with kettlebells.

I tried the gym, but I didn’t find what I was looking for. The treadmill did nothing for me and was boring. I lifted weights but noticed no change in my muscles. I began lifting more but my muscles were still nowhere to be found, and it certainly was not helping my back pain or energy level. Now understand, I’m not trying to knock the gym… but for me it just wasn’t the right answer, and I know I am not the only one out there with the same story.

I started working with the kettlebell in November and by December my back pain was gone and I felt more energetic than I had in years. I continued my routine and soon I was getting muscles all over. My abdominals were stronger than I could ever imagine. I could see and feel the fat melting away. My body became strong, supported, and erect – not the floppy mess that it was. I am now able to use my body to the fullest, and my energy is through the roof. This allows me to see my chiropractic patients until 6:15 at night and then I teach a kettlebell class for an hour, four nights a week. I have more energy now at 40 than when I was in my twenties.

Results in the Real World

Tiffany is my 20-year-old receptionist and is very fit. She usually goes to the gym five nights a week and works out for two or more hours. She heard the buzz about kettlebells and their butt-kicking potential but was very skeptical — they looked too simple and unassuming. After all, she had a trainer at her gym who would put her through what was supposed to be a gut-wrenching workout – one that would leave her ‘feeling the burn’. But afterwards she felt no increase in energy and wasn’t even sore. She then took my hour-long kettlebell class and said she had never worked out so hard in her life. She realized that she had used muscles for the first time that she never even knew existed.

Putting a load on your muscles over time builds stamina and endurance. The body is now able to tolerate activities of daily living with ease. Instead of lumbering up the stairs and being out of breath you will be able to run up them with energy to spare. The ballistic nature of kettlebells is what gives you the power, strength, and stamina to get through your day. To raise the kettlebell over your head repeatedly you have to use all your muscles and cardiovascular endurance. 15-20 minutes a day is all you need to give your body an amazing workout. Even if you begin with five minutes of swings a day you will start to feel changes in your body.

I have a woman in my class in her early 60’s named Connie. She has never been able to do a sit-up. Never, not even as a child. She is now able to do sit-ups because she has strengthened her abs and entire body doing nothing more than swings and snatches. Pretty powerful! It was after one of my classes she got pulled over by the police for speeding. She was so excited that she could do a sit-up that she didn’t realize how fast she was going. It’s energizing to have Connie in class because she keeps challenging her body to improve. She will line up three different sizes of kettlebells and will start with the heaviest one. If her form wavers she moves to the next smaller size. She is now using her body as it was meant to be used. As she keeps up the work she will be stronger and more fit than she has ever been.

A Meditative Workout

As demanding as it may be, a kettlebell workout has a meditative quality to it, allowing the mind to become quiet and calm. When I am snatching the 24 kg bell I am focusing on nothing other than doing it with proper form. I focus on my breathing, my core, and my squatting position. There are no thoughts about what’s for dinner, the dirty laundry, unopened mail or tomorrow’s schedule. All of your attention is on the bell and your body. Your mind is clear and focused. Most of us have that awful monkey-chatter going on in our head. “I’m too fat, I’m ugly, I don’t make enough money, my life sucks.” In a kettlebell class your mind is clear for at least 15-20 minutes as oxygen is pumping through your body, and you are feeling more powerful than you thought you could be. Can you remember the last time you felt that? It may seem minor as you sit there reading about it, but it’s powerful to experience and begins paving a path that can quickly bring benefits to many aspects of your life.

About The Author

Russian Kettlebell Workout

Supertraining — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 13:52:21 +0000

Russian kettlebells are amazing! These kettlebell workouts may be the answer to maintaining a home gym or having an expensive club membership.

With Russian kettlebells you can develop superior gains over traditional workout methods and save lots of space in your home.

The man who teaches Russian Kettlebell training is Pavel Tsatsouline. He is a former Spetznaz trainer. For those who may not know, Spetznaz is the Russian equivalent of the CIA or special forces.

As every high-risk agent would wish for, after studying some of Pavel’s books you can definitely find out how to have explosive instant power ready at all times.

But, not everyone is a spy; in fact very few of us are. So what benefits does kettlebell training have for the average woman or man?

Kettlebell training can be a great way to lose weight, tone up the body, and stay in shape once you get it there with the added benefits mentioned above.

And not only that, kettlebell workouts may be better for you than weights. In one of his books, Pavel mentions some of the fitness tests that were used to compare kettlebell training to traditional workouts.

The kettlebell trainers seemed to be in much better shape according to Pavel. And Pavel would know – You can see a picture of Pavel on his web site. The guy is well muscled and toned for someone that avoids weight training like the plague.

Speaking of muscle and tone, check out the incredible Ab muscles that Pavel can show you how to develope. Pavel, being an expert in physical training combined with his unique experience and insight is fully qualified to show you all about physical fitness.

Whether you are female or male, Pavel can show you the way to fitness. He has also collected for our benefit, what he believes to be excellent advice in nutrition.

Another thing I think that is interesting about Pavel and his work is that he brings his colorful and interesting Russian personality into play. For example, just think of the title of one of his books, Power to the People.

Me? I find that title humorous, but if I had to explain why I think it’s funny, I’m not sure that I could. It might be the underlying but subtle notion that liberation is in order for someone. Come to think of it, I guess liberation is in order.

Pavel wants to show us a better way to fitness and free us from our need to spend an inordinate amount of time in the gym and spend it more wisely and effectively, so that we can have great physical fitness and time to enjoy it as well.

As you can see by glancing at his pictures, Pavel not only knows how to develop an amazing physique but he also knows how to keep himself flexible at the same time.

Maybe now you can understand why I think this man has some answers to fitness that we might not be able to find anywhere else, nor all in one convenient location either.

As always, consult a primary care physician before embarking on any fitness regimen. This article is for information purposes only and is not to treat, prevent or diagnose any physical condition