"The most dangerous phrase in the language is "we've always done it this way." - Grace Hopper Hockey, more specifically the skating stride, is essentially a single leg sport/movement. As a result, we tend to think 1-leg plyo's are important/beneficial. We tend to think 1-leg strength exercises are important/beneficial. So why wouldn't we think that … Continue reading 1-Leg Hang Clean?
Exercise
The New KISS Principle
“KISS. Keep It Simple & Safe.” – Joe Kenn, Strength Coach, Carolina Panthers As a strength coach you should ask yourself one simple question; what is the best exercise(s) to SAFELY get the adaptation that you are after? Whatever the answer is, do that. For many of the athletes I work with it’s very simple … Continue reading The New KISS Principle
1-Leg Linear Hurdle Hop Progression
The goal of our 'plyometric' program is to first teach the athlete jumping and landing skills before we progress to what most people would consider true plyometrics. We prioritize eccentric stability before we worry about power develop ➡️ we prioritize injury prevention over performance. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VR-L2sNT0rg Phase One: To A Box The first emphasis is learning … Continue reading 1-Leg Linear Hurdle Hop Progression
Is the Deadlift the real King of all Exercises?
“The risk reward is just in favor of the deadlift over the squat for most people.” – Gray Cook Sport = hip hinging. Generally speaking, if you ask someone to show you their best vertical or broad jump but have them stop in the bottom position right before they were to jump, they’ll be in … Continue reading Is the Deadlift the real King of all Exercises?
Overhead Pressing Overhead Athletes?
"Just because an exercise doesn't hurt it doesn't mean it's not causing harm." Eric Cressey Would I overhead press an overhead athlete (volleyball in this case) with a barbell or even a dumbbell, even if it is pain free? No, the risk is not worth the reward - your probably playing with fire in the … Continue reading Overhead Pressing Overhead Athletes?
Our ‘Core’ Training
Our 'core' training. No crunches. No sit ups. No leg lifts. No quick "core/ab" session to start or finish a workout. We use exercises that resist extension, flexion and rotation, loaded carries (suitcase/farmers) and get ups. We use exercises that demand core stability not core strength, exercises where the goal is to not move the … Continue reading Our ‘Core’ Training
Diaphragmatic Breathing is Important!
“Your diaphragm is responsible for your breathing, your posture and for stabilization in performance.” Brett Jones Poor breathing patterns can lead to dysfunction across the entire body. And because of that, almost without fail, the best corrective exercise is teaching people how to breathe properly. Breathing has a huge neurological influence and is considered our … Continue reading Diaphragmatic Breathing is Important!
Anti-Extension Progression
Looking for a core that not only looks good but functions well, whether your a regular Joe or an athlete? Of course you are, because we all are. What's the most important function of the core? I would argue it's the ability of the anterior core to prevent extension of the lumbar spine. It's crucial … Continue reading Anti-Extension Progression
Contraindicated Exercises: Upright Row
In the last year I have had the opportunity to take over the strength and conditioning efforts with the volleyball team at the University of New Hampshire. As a result I have had to do a lot more research and gain more understanding of the shoulder in order to maintain and improve the health of … Continue reading Contraindicated Exercises: Upright Row
10 Random Training Thoughts
Here is a very random post that has 10 different thoughts that have been going through my head. I try to write down as much of the random stuff that goes through my head when it comes to strength and conditioning so I can share it every 4-6 weeks. 1. As a coach, you need … Continue reading 10 Random Training Thoughts