Benchmarks

What 305 in bumper plates looks like

Posted by Fran Mason on Sep 1, 2011 in Benchmarks, Blog | 1 comment

Here’s Mike bending the bar on a 305-lb squat, a recent PR for him. Way to go!

Ring supports

Posted by Fran Mason on Jun 2, 2011 in Benchmarks, Blog | 1 comment

It’s not easy to support yourself on rings. It looks easy if you see someone do it who’s been practicing awhile. After lots of brief practice sessions jumping to support on rings and on stable bars, Rae is now able to support herself and hold a tuck position. Nice going! To get started, have a partner hold the rings in place firmly as you try to support your weight. Use rings that are low enough so you can just lift your feet without having to jump. Push down with your hands while...

Back squats

Posted by Fran Mason on Apr 23, 2011 in Benchmarks, Blog | Comments Off

Jackie’s PR back squat of 144 lbs. Nice job. (And the many rubber plates make it look extra awesome!) Jackie is very courageous when it comes to heavy stuff; the statement I most associate with Jackie is, “I do think I can do...

Congratulations Kent!

Posted by Fran Mason on Mar 24, 2011 in Benchmarks, Blog | Comments Off

Kent deadlifted his body weight for the first time today. Legit!

Working on the clean and jerk

Posted by Fran Mason on Mar 22, 2011 in Benchmarks, Blog | Comments Off

Straight-arm supports and deadlifts

Posted by Fran Mason on Feb 10, 2011 in Benchmarks, Blog | 1 comment

Supporting one’s weight on bars or (more difficult) on rings is new to most people. It’s a great builder of torso, shoulder and arm strength. I love to use various static holds or hanging movements as an alternative to sit-ups. Sit-ups are important, but after a while, an obsession with sit-ups just makes you better at sit-ups. Try supporting your body in space as well. Here are Todd, Erika, Jane, and Terry working their supports. Jane has transformed her deadlift! She’s gone...