All Articles & Reviews by
Scott Andrew Bird
(12689 posts in total - only latest ones shown)
Scott Andrew Bird is a writer, photographer and a guy who just loves this stuff. He's been at home in front of a computer for more years than he cares to remember (OK, 35) and is now making amends for years of many mistakes noted in the De-constructing Computer Guy articles (part 2) on T-Nation.
Find out what he's up to via Twitter, Google+, Facebook; and of course his online home. Enjoy.
NB : Like to write a guest post for Straight to the Bar? I love hearing about how other people are training. And if you've got a strength-related competition or seminar coming up, add it to the calendar. And if you'd love to be on one of the weekly Gymchats - get in touch. Look forward to hearing from you.
Ascent (Whey Protein Powder)
Looks great.
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Ever since I wrote The 4-Hour Body, starting my day with ~30 grams of protein has been part of my routine. Of course, I don't always have time or the patience to cook a meal, so I supplement. Unfortunately, most protein powders are filled with excess sugar, questionable artificial sweeteners, or low-grade protein. Ascent Protein is an exception -- it contains zero artificial ingredients, artificial sweeteners, or added sugar. They also nailed the taste; they tested 282 versions before getting the chocolate (my favorite) just right. If you prefer, they also offer vanilla bean, cappuccino, and lemon sorbet flavors. Visit ascentprotein.com/Tim and use the code TFASCENT and you'll receive 20% off of your entire purchase. If you want a quick dose of protein to start your day or end a workout, this is a great option and my default. Use TFASCENT for your 20% discount. Enjoy!If you're curious to find out more, swing by : www.ascentprotein.com/tim. Sounds great.
Arnold Schwarzenegger : Heavy Training at 71 (Gym Nation 2.0)
After the surgery, straight back into it.
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After the surgery, straight back into it.
Looking At : Sep 16, 2018
This week on Google+, Twitter (especially the lists!) a
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During the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Google+, Twitter, Facebook and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
Meyko (Medication Reminder for Children)
Interesting idea.
TweetInteresting idea.
The Meyko is a medication reminder for children (for asthmatics in this case, but it could be anything), gamifying the regular consumption of medication. Doses are linked to care of the device.
A bit of video will show you what I mean :
The Meyko.
Heavy Lifting at 6'6 (Jujimufu)
Love it.
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A little on the tall side? Here's a great look at some seriously heavy lifting at 6'6.
Love it.
Looking At : Sep 9, 2018
What we were talking about this week on Google+, Twitter (especially the lists!) a
TweetDuring the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Google+, Twitter, Facebook and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
Lessons 1 & 2 of David Webster's 'The Complete Physique Course' [Kindle Edition]
Looks great.
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Fit Expo Grip Testing (Jujimufu)
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Love it.
Looking At : Sep 2, 2018
What we were talking about this week on Google+, Twitter and Nuzzel
TweetDuring the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Google+, Twitter, Facebook and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
The Mighty (Portable Streaming Music Player)
Looks great.
TweetLooks great.
The Mighty is a combination of the iPod Shuffle (remember those?) and a 'portable, streaming music player', better known as a 'phone. Should be the ideal device for a blast of music during a workout.
The video below will show you what I mean :
The Mighty.
How to Make an Indoor Climbing Wall (I Like to Make Stuff)
Love it.
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A great DIY idea - an indoor climbing wall. Love it.
Looking At : Aug 26, 2018
What we were talking about this week on Google+, Twitter and Nuzzel
TweetDuring the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Google+, Twitter, Facebook and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
The PR2 (Band Deadlifts Platform)
Looks great.
TweetLooks great.
The PR2 is a purpose-built Band Deadlift Platform, small enough to be portable and solid enough to cope with some insanely heavy pulls. Adjustable, designed to cope with both Standard & Reverse Band Deadlifts.
A spot of video :
NB : I must admit, my own setup is very much like the DIY one shown in the video; but a dedicated platform like this certainly has its advantages. Ever tried one?
The PR2 Band Deadlifts Platform.
Calisthenics Progressions (Calisthenicmovement)
Great information.
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Great information.
Looking At : Aug 19, 2018
What we were talking about this week on Google+, Twitter and Nuzzel
TweetDuring the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Google+, Twitter, Facebook and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
An Unusual Source of Protein : Cricket Flour
Interesting.
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Grip Strength Exercises for Wrists & Forearms (Criticalbench)
A very solid start.
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There are certainly plenty of alternatives, but the 13 exercises here are a very solid start.
Looking At : Aug 12, 2018
What we were talking about this week on Google+, Twitter and Nuzzel
TweetDuring the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Google+, Twitter, Facebook and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
TUWAN (Anti-Snoring Pillow Pad)
Interesting idea.
TweetInteresting idea.
The TUWAN is a pair of devices - one to detect snoring, the other to move the pillow slightly - shifting the snorer's head. Although I haven't tried this myself, I'm keen to give it a run.
Ever tried one - or anything similar - yourself?
In the meantime, a spot of video :
The TUWAN.
The Hollow Body Hold (& Variations) vs Sit-ups (Calisthenic Movement)
Interesting exercise.
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Interesting exercise.
Looking At : Aug 5, 2018
What we were talking about this week on Google+, Twitter and Nuzzel
TweetDuring the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Google+, Twitter, Facebook and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
Lumen (Nutrition Monitor)
Keen to try one of these.
TweetKeen to try one of these.
The Lumen is a breath-based nutrition monitor, measuring your caloric burn via your breath and suggesting meals accordingly. Interesting idea; keen to see how accurate it is, and whether I can combine the data with that from other devices.
The Lumen.
Performing the Barbell Row (Alan Thrall)
Nice one.
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Nice one.
Looking At : Jul 29, 2018
What we were talking about this week on Google+, Twitter and Nuzzel
TweetDuring the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Google+, Twitter, Facebook and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
AirSelfie2 (Small Camera Drone)
Interesting idea.
TweetInteresting idea.
I'm always on the lookout for new ways to document my own training (typically outdoors, various locations), and this is an intriguing option - the AirSelfie2 (think small camera drone). Anyone tried one?
The Pseudo Planche Pushup & Variations (Austin Dunham)
Nice one.
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Nice one.
Looking At : Jul 22, 2018
What we were talking about this week on Google+, Twitter and Nuzzel
TweetDuring the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Google+, Twitter, Facebook and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
Coolala (SolarPowered Portable Air Conditioner)
Making outdoor works a whole lot more enjoyable in the summer months.
TweetMaking outdoor works a whole lot more enjoyable in the summer months, the Coolala is a solar-powered, portable air conditioner. A spot of video :
Looks great.
Building A Bench Press Station From A Tree (Buff Dudes)
A slightly different take on outdoor training.
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A slightly different take on outdoor training.
Looking At : Jul 15, 2018
What we were talking about this week on Google+, Twitter and Nuzzel
TweetDuring the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Google+, Twitter, Facebook and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
The Rogue Fitness Sandbags
These look great.
TweetThese look great - heavy, configurable sandbags. The video (Alan Thrall) will show you a great way to use them - in place of Atlas stones.
The Rogue Fitness Sandbags.
Total Fitness Bodybuilding Video Chat (Lee Hayward)
Another great Q&A series - this time with the incredible Lee Hayward.
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Another great Q&A series - this time with the incredible Lee Hayward.
Looking At : Jul 8, 2018
What we were talking about this week on Google+, Twitter and Nuzzel
TweetDuring the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Google+, Twitter, Facebook and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
Prepdeck (Food Preparation Assistant)
Interesting idea.
TweetInteresting idea.
I go through a fair bit of food here, and I suspect I'm not the only one. Prepared in batches wherever possible.
Prepdeck is a kitchen assistant to help keep everything precisely measured, and organised. A bit of video to show you what I mean :
The Prepdeck.
Learning How To Program, 5/3/1, Managing A Gym (Alan Thrall)
Great information Alan.
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It's Q&A time once again. Great information Alan.
Looking At : Jul 1, 2018
What we were talking about this week on Google+, Twitter and Nuzzel
TweetDuring the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Google+, Twitter, Facebook and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
FATBAR (Low Carb, High Fat Pre-Workout Bars)
Always on the lookout for new protein bars, and these look great.
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Always on the lookout for new protein bars, and these look great - the FATBARs. Anyone tried them; or any others that you'd recommend?
The FATBAR.
Pivot Blocks, and Fixing The Good Morning Squat (Alan Thrall)
Great information Alan.
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Great information Alan.
Looking At : Jun 24, 2018
What we were talking about this week on Google+, Twitter and Nuzzel
TweetDuring the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Google+, Twitter, Facebook and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
'The Dinosaur Files' for May/June 2018
I love these.
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AlphaDestiny Q&A (Alex Leonidas)
There's some great information in these videos.
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There's some great information in these videos. Cheers Alex.
Looking At : Jun 17, 2018
What we were talking about this week on Google+, Twitter and Nuzzel
TweetDuring the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Google+, Twitter, Facebook and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
The iQsquare Cycling Power Meter
Looks great.
TweetLooks great.
The iQsquare Cycling Power Meter is a feature-rich, relatively low cost (for Power Meters, that is) device for professional and serious amateur cyclists alike. Available in November this year, the video below will show you exactly what's on offer :
:
The iQsquare Cycling Power Meter.
Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Fasting (Jimmy Moore on Health Theory)
Very interesting discussion.
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Very interesting discussion with Jimmy Moore on fasting, low-carb diets and nutrition in general.
Looking At : Jun 10, 2018
What we were talking about this week on Google+, Twitter and Nuzzel
TweetDuring the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Google+, Twitter, Facebook and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
SPT2 (Wearable GPS Tracker for Team Sports)
Looks great.
TweetLooks great (would love to see them used around here).
The SPT (Sports Performance Tracking) is a wearable GPS tracker, to keep an eye on the movements of each athlete on the team. If someone's injured/slowing down/underperforming it's immediately clear. As for the item itself, a spot of video will help show you what I mean :
The SPT2 Wearable GPS Tracker.
A Brain Boosting Breakfast for Low Carb Diets (Max Lugavere)
I get a lot of questions about low-carb diets in general (notably Paleo), and this answers one of the more common ones - how to begin the day.
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I get a lot of questions about low-carb diets in general (notably Paleo), and this answers one of the more common ones - how to begin the day.
Looking At : Jun 3, 2018
What we were talking about this week on Google+, Twitter and Nuzzel
TweetDuring the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Google+, Twitter, Facebook and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
Looking At : May 27, 2018
What we were talking about this week on Google+, Twitter and Nuzzel
TweetDuring the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Google+, Twitter, Facebook and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
Silentmode (Music-Enabled Sleep Mask)
Very interesting combination.
TweetVery interesting combination.
I've tried out a number of ways to listen to music (or audiobooks) as I fall asleep, with my current preference being audio via the TV (with an off-timer set for 15mins or so).
The Silentmode looks to beat them all.
If anyone's tried anything like this, I'd love to hear your thoughts. In the meantime, a spot of video :
The Silentmode Music-Enabled Sleep Mask.
Are You as Strong as You Could Be?
Grab the Straight to the Bar Strength Kit.
Training Guides, eBooks and of course the Strength & Fitness Newsletter. Absolutely free.
If you love talking about training, make sure you check out the Gymchats. There's a full list of previous shows here.
To give you an idea of what they're like, here's an example :
Gymchat 277 - Barefoot Running - Believe the Hype! (Steven Sashen)
Fantastic discussion.
NB : if you'd like to be interviewed on an upcoming show (or know someone who should be), drop us a line. It's great to find out how other people train. And if you'd like to add your comments and suggestions on the Gymchats in general, we'd love to hear them. Cheers.
what we're saying
NB : As well as leaving a comment or two beneath the articles themselves, come and join us over on Google+ to see what else we're talking about.
just joined us? try these
There are some incredible writers on the team here. To give you an idea, check out these posts :
DIY: How to Build an Olympic Weightlifting Platform
Kat 'The Mighty Kat' Ricker
Building A Neck Of Steel
Mike 'The Machine' Bruce
Straight to the Grip Contest
Jedd 'Napalm' Johnson
A Little Yoke Work : 10 Exercises for a Bigger Neck
Scott Andrew Bird
29 Things to do with a Barbell in the Corner
Jason Kirby
Get Mental! The Psychology of Strength
Josh Hewett
Small Victories
Josh Hanagarne
If you enjoyed the articles above, check out the complete 'Best Of Straight to the Bar' list. And if you'd like to do some fitness writing yourself and submit your own piece, get in touch.
ready to get in shape?
A dose of Online Personal Training is ideal. Your place, their experience.
As you'd expect, I work with a number of Fitness Professionals myself - including the wonderful Josh Hewett. If you're about to begin your own strength-training journey, swing by his site at :
top-form-fitness.com/online-coaching
Highly recommended. If you're looking to get serious about 'getting in shape', book some time with Josh. Fantastic guy.
setting up a home gym?
If you're getting ready to put together a solid Home Gym (fantastic thing), here's how.
And for more, swing by the full guide. Absolutely free.
images of strength
Want to see (and learn) more Feats of Strength like this? Dive in.
gift buying guide
When your spouse/sibling/friend is ready to 'get in shape' (or they already are), what do you get them?
No matter what sort of training they're in to, we've got a few suggestions. And if you're looking for something specific, we'll help you find out where to get it. Just leave a comment on any of the posts listed below.
There are a number of articles that may help you in your quest. Specifically :
- Grrl's Valentine's Day Wishlist (Kat 'The Mighty Kat' Ricker)
- The Bodyweight Aficionado's Guide to Gear (Jason Kirby)
- Recommended Books & DVDs on Strength-Training (SttB Authors)
And there's also the full list of the fitness-focused books and DVDs we've looked at over the years : Reading
NB : if you're still not sure what to get, there's always the option of buying them a gift card. There are certainly plenty of options; Amazon
's still my favourite.
Now it's your turn. Let us know how you get on, and feel free to share any photographs of what you bought or how it's being used.
Look forward to hearing from you.
reading : Ferocious Fitness (Phil Ross, Marty Gallagher)
Remember this? Great book. Ferocious Fitness : A Fighter's Proven Action Plan to Develop Blazing Power, Animalistic Strength and Killer Conditioning is a distillation of Phil Ross' training wisdom, in the form of a superbly comprehensive book. We took a look at the digital version recently, and you'll be pleased to know that the paperback version is now available. Definitely worthy of a place on the fitness shelf. Phil Ross' Ferocious Fitness.
community
talking about If you tweet a lot about fitness and would love to be on this list, let me know.
giving
If you've been training for a while, gradually cleaning up your diet, no doubt you've experienced the amazing power of transformation. It's a tremendous feeling. If you're ready to give someone else a hand to transform their own lives - through education, sharing equipment, financial help - take a look at the full list of organisations on the Giving page. Cheers.
daily newsletter
For some people, this site's weekly newsletter (The Strength & Fitness Weekly - part of the Strength Kit) isn't quite frequent enough. For those I produce a daily version, which you can grab here. Absolutely free.
love your grip work?
Check out The Grip Authority. Fantastic site.
in the wild
It’s always great to see how other people train.
If you’d like to send in a photo of yourself in action (wearing one of the Straight to the Bar Shirts of course - the latest design is here), just upload it somewhere and send us a link. Cheers.
the future of fitness
Over the years we’ve looked at the fitness industry from a number of angles - discussing the history, present approaches and potential future trends involved. Fascinating areas.
When it comes to the last part - discussing potential future trends - things get a little, well, unusual. If it’s an interest you share, or you just want to find out the types of things we think are likely, check out the posts tagged ‘Futurism’. And of course, Gymchat 224 (Roundtable) - The Future of Fitness. Superb discussion.
leave it in the ground
On Straight to the Bar we talk a lot about air pollution, primarily from a gym-owner's perspective. In the 'Leave it in the Ground' newsletter we look at the topic far more broadly - the gradual move away from the use of fossil fuels. Daily, and free.
elsewhere
As you can see, we love talking about training. In addition to the conversations on here, in the Google+ Community, Twitter and so on are discussions on several other great fitness-focussed sites.
Check out :
- Josh Hewett : How to Increase Mind-Muscle Connection
- Al Kavadlo : Air Baby Tutorial
- Dictated Journeys Of A Personal Trainer : My caloric goal achieved using the s health app on my phone
- Gains & Aesthetics : In a rut with your routine? Tips to get motivated again
Of course, we're always on the lookout for new additions to this list. If you'd like to suggest a site you've come across personally (or perhaps one that you run), drop us a line.
checking out
Ascent (Whey Protein Powder) Looks good - will be testing it out shortly.Ascent Native Fuel is the protein powder that Tim Ferriss mentioned recently in a 'Five Bullet Friday' newsletter (and of course in the '4 Hour Body'). If you've never read it, the newsletter notes :
Ever since I wrote The 4-Hour Body, starting my day with ~30 grams of protein has been part of my routine. Of course, I don't always have time or the patience to cook a meal, so I supplement. Unfortunately, most protein powders are filled with excess sugar, questionable artificial sweeteners, or low-grade protein. Ascent Protein is an exception -- it contains zero artificial ingredients, artificial sweeteners, or added sugar. They also nailed the taste; they tested 282 versions before getting the chocolate (my favorite) just right. If you prefer, they also offer vanilla bean, cappuccino, and lemon sorbet flavors. Visit ascentprotein.com/Tim and use the code TFASCENT and you'll receive 20% off of your entire purchase. If you want a quick dose of protein to start your day or end a workout, this is a great option and my default. Use TFASCENT for your 20% discount. Enjoy!
If you're curious to find out more, swing by :
Sounds great.
If you're new to the world of nail bending, this is the perfect book to get. It'll show you the exact techniques you'll need to get started right away. Written by world-class bender 'Napalm' Jedd Johnson.
The Diesel Crew's Card Tearing eBook
This is a fantastic book. If you've ever considered learning this incredible strength feat, the Card Tearing eBook is the perfect place to start. Love it.
Confused about what to eat, how much to eat; even when to eat? This book will help you get the most out of your food plan. Superb.
Mike Gillette explains the various ways to put the gymnastic rings to work - progressively - in Rings of Power. With clear emphases on both strength and rehabilitation, it's an ideal place to start.
Particularly those of us in the 'over 40' crowd.
When it comes to body transformation - whether that's an increase in strength, packing on a bit of muscle or losing a bit of excess fat - this is the perfect place to start. Dr Berardi's Precision Nutrition.
This is a fantastic book. As Josh explains, it superbly shows what's going on while you train. Love it.
The Art of Expressing the Human Body
If you've ever watched a Bruce Lee film and marveled at his strength, speed, agility, endurance, flexibility or muscularity, this book should take pride of place in your collection. Unlike many other writings covering everything from Lee's training methods to nutrition, this book is based not on the recollections of people around him; but on Lee's own notes. Brilliant.
For a full list of what we're reading at the moment (training-related and otherwise), join us on Goodreads. And for a cut-down list showing only the ones we recommend, swing by the Recommended Books & DVDs page. See you there.