BarBend Podcast: The Pinnacle Of California Strength With Dave Spitz

Dave Spitz joined BarBend Podcast host David Tao to discuss the California Strength origin story, the evolution of Dave’s programming, Wes Kitts’ journey to the 2020 Olympic Games and more!

[Q&A] Jaden Washington: Cal Strength Junior Member or Captain America?

If Cal Strength were the Avengers, Jaden Washington would be Captain America. He’s polite, well-mannered, works hard, and always does the right thing. Jaden is representing Team USA at the IWF Junior World Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan this week and I thought it would be fitting to do a little Q&A with him.

How To Snatch Pain Free While Using Your Hook Grip

Experiencing discomfort in your wrist while Snatching or feel like your turnover is too slow? Nicole Lim and the California Strength Weightlifting Team weigh in on whether or not you should release your hook grip when receiving the Snatch overhead.

Are You Taking Enough Mental Reps?

Think your weightlifting program is perfect? You've accounted for volume, intensity, exercise selection and have lined up your periodization to peak at the perfect time; but wait. Have you added mental reps into the equation? All your blood, sweat and tears could easily be for not if the mental side of training is forgotten. Don't worry, we have you covered!

The Coach & Athlete: Working towards a common goal

When things are going according to plan, PR's are being hit and meets won, it is easier for the athlete to honor this trust. As the athlete advances in age and PR's become scarce due to advanced training age, this trust is often challenged and might require the coach to allow the athlete to be more involved in their training decisions. The partnership should shift towards that of a collaborative role between athlete and coach at this junction and may give a positive and welcomed sense of control back to the athlete...

Active Rest: Doing the Small Things

Following the completion of a macrocycle, it is beneficial to prescribe at least one complete week off from training. Stepping away from the barbell allows time for the body to work out any aches and pains that may have amassed from a year’s worth of hard training and allows your Central Nervous System to recharge..

IPAR, Olympic WeightliftingScott EsparzaDecember 7, 2015Training, Active Rest, Recovery, Accessory Exercises, ProgrammingComment

Building the Barbell WOD Program

Community Content, Strength trainingScott EsparzaNovember 6, 2015Programming, Program, Training, Coaching, Barbell WOD, The Barbell WOD, CrossFitComment

Why is Tapering for a Meet so Important?

Being rested and primed to optimize your training through a thoughtful tapering process can offer you the edge over your competitors or mean the difference between a good meet and a great meet!

When implemented correctly, a taper prior to competition can increase strength output by roughly 7-10% (dependent on the individual), through a series of adaptations in the athlete’s body. This does not take into account the psychological benefits from having a clear plan of attack for what your training will consist of in the final weeks before competition and the peace of mind given to an athlete who feels confident that they have done all they can to perform when it counts the most.