The Volume Trap

A young JB works on his power snatch technique, back in the day.

Vern Gambetta has a great post on quality vs. quantity. For me and my athletes, training isn't an end unto itself. Many coaches, athletes and fitness professionals get caught up in the "more is better" mindset. Don't be fooled by the outliers that survive the volume trap; be cognizant of the many who don't.

It's Electric! The Miles ZX40S

Our new ride. No it's not a hybrid; it is a neighborhood electric vehicle (NEV). 90% fewer parts than a gas-powered vehicle. 45-50 miles per charge. Charges in our garage every night on a 110v/20 amp dedicated, non-GFCI outlet.

Korean National Team Training

For those who have never seen actual weightlifting athletes train, this video by US athlete Alex Lee (62 kg) shows the intent and precision with which the weightlifter moves. It is not about beating the bar with any means possible; it is about mastering movement with the bar. Sure these people are strong and powerful, but they are also masters of technique, body awareness and efficiency. Note their ability to lower the barbell between reps.

Thanks, Alex! (via GoHeavy)

Epic FAIL

If your barbell EVER looks like this, you FAIL. Learn how to load the bar. Learn how to take care of the equipment in your gym. Get some Hitechplates (the most excellent gray and white plates on the squat racks behind the bar) if you need to train with < 95 lbs from the floor.

Sequence Pic

Katherine Page (69 kg) makes a successful lift in the 2007 American Open.

A System of the Absurd

Charge for wellness checkup blood tests @ St. Lukes Hospital: $1142.20.

Amount written off by hospital as negotiated by Anthem BC/BS: $967.20.
The insurance company pays NOTHING for this service.

Amount patient required to pay: $175

Does any of this make sense? Does $1142.20 represent the true cost of doing the testing for the hospital? What if I had requested to pay cash for the whole thing? Same charge?

BTW, my mom's hospital bill (Des Peres Hospital) for her same-day surgery (rotator cuff repair)--ready--$33,000. Not sure what her insurance is going to cover yet, but she was at the hospital from 8 am to 5 pm, and in actual surgery less than 2 hours. Never admitted to a room, just in and out burger style. The surgeon had 8 similar surgeries on the schedule that day. Bonus!

Gambetta Spectrum Squat

The Boys are Back in Town

I'm psyched. Chris (volleyball, aka The Thin Man) and Ryan (basketball, aka PB&J) are about to begin their senior year of high school, after a very busy and successful summer competition schedule. They know they have a great deal of work to do, but they are ready. It is time to get busy and get beastly!

Why You Should Exercise