If there is something I’ve learned about training fighters over the last few years, it’s what NOT to do. The mistakes I’ve made haven’t been major, but they did provide me with some serious insight on how to better design programs for all athletes, not just fighters. As I often say, I’m happy with 80% of … Read More
The fight game is tough. I get it. Many fighters are trying to figure out how to fit in technical work as well as strength and conditioning training…often while balancing a full-time job and a family. Fighting is a huge commitment, but like anything, if you want to be the best, there are some sacrifices that you need to make. … Read More
When it comes to designing training programs for combat athletes, (and really, when designing all training programs) I always look for patterns! I ask myself the following five questions when designing training programs for athletes. What works? What doesn’t? What is the risk/reward? Is the exercise appropriate for the athlete at this time? Is the exercise appropriate … Read More
One of my favorite exercises in the world is the Turkish get up. Most coaches agree the TGU a great exercise, but many times understanding each of the positions can be tough to a beginner. In fact, I’d argue one of the toughest things to teach people who are new to training is how to pack their shoulder … Read More
Join us at Skill of Strength on November 21, 2015 for Beer and Barbells for Brendon! NOTE: If you can not make it to the event, you can still purchase raffle tickets online! (Details below…) We are hosting a deadlift competition as a fundraiser to help our friend and fellow strength coach, Brendon Rearick, who was … Read More
The airborne lunge is an incredible drill that most people either skip over never even learn. Let’s change that! Mastering this exercise will increase your single leg strength, enhance coordination, and improve rotary stability and mobility simultaneously. It takes some time to learn how to properly perform an airborne lunge, but the benefits of this … Read More
Before I start, keep in mind I’m not saying you need to call the exercise police and demand perfection on every set and rep, but rather that you (and your clients) should have some standards on how to perform basic exercises. Sure, technique will vary from person-to-person, but here’s the way I look at it: If you were … Read More
It’s been awhile since I’ve written. Life has gotten (even more) crazy, but it’s no excuse. I’ve been spending a ton of time writing training programs, looking back at old training programs and researching new ways to improve the performance of my athletes. Today I’m going to share with you what I believe are the biggest … Read More
Armor building is a term I first heard from Dan John. In case you you haven’t heard of him, he’s kind of a big deal. Dan is a seasoned coach and he’s made some amazing contributions to the strength and conditioning community. Here is Dan’s article on armor building. I suggest you read it! http://www.t-nation.com/training/armor-building … Read More
Your time is limited. Spend your time wisely. Fighters need it all. Strength Strength Endurance Power Mobility Flexibility Alactic conditioning Lactic Conditioning Aerobic conditioning Grip strength Core work On top of everything listed above, you CANNOT forget about all of the skill work fighters should/need to be doing at their MMA gyms! Before, I continue, lets … Read More