In what I hope will become a weekly column, "The Rage" will present my pet peeves, frustrations, and head-shaking observations on all things strength and training. I suspect that many Rip-N-Rage readers will share my consternation relating to the topics about which I rage, and I encourage you to send suggestions and comments to me… Read More

The Arnold Classic Strongman Contest turned out to be everything it was hyped up to be and more. An almost epic battle between Poundstone and Kokylaev came down to the last event with Poundstone setting a world record in the Circus Dumbbell for the victory.

 

But as epics go, there are always sub-plots to the story. Or, one might even say epics of their own (certainly to the specific players). RNR had been following Dave Ostlund’s preparation for this contest for the few months leading up to it. At 6’7” and tipping the scales in the neighborhood of 360 lbs., Ostlund was bigger and stronger than he’s ever been. An… Read More

Want to deadlift big weights? Thinking about a gold medal in Olympic judo? Got your heart set on an armwrestling world championship? Whether you are a high school defensive end, rock climber, or aspiring strongman, you’ll never reach your full potential without training your grip.

 

Serious grip training goes far beyond a few sets of wrist curls that we often see in our local gyms. Guys (and gals) that “get it” will often be seen carrying their grocery bags on one finger or playing around with various sledge hammers at the hardware store. This in addition to formal training with kettle bells, rocks, dumbbells (not… Read More

Over the course of an athlete's career, he or she will spend literally thousands of hours in the gym, or on the field, preparing for their chosen endeavor. What all but the great ones lack however, is mental preparation to one extent or another. Mental preparation doesn't begin on "game day", or even a day or week in advance. To really succeed, whether it be lifting, throwing, arm wrestling, or strongman, the best athletes continually and consistently begin their mental prep the day that they choose their battle. Read More