All Articles & Reviews by
Scott Andrew Bird
(11182 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, 33) and is now making amends for years of many mistakes noted in the De-constructing computer guy articles (part 2) on T-Nation.
Stalkers may wish to track his every move via Twitter, Google+ (particularly the Straight to the Bar Community) or Facebook; everyone else is cordially invited to hop over to 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.
Dom D'Agostino on the Tim Ferris Show
How the pursuit of size and strength impacts the pursuit of longevity.
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Steve Cotter Kettlebell Juggling
Much, much harder than he makes it look.
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Much, much harder than he makes it look.
Looking At : Sep 25, 2016
What we were talking about this week on Google+, Twitter and Nuzzel
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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.
The Keto Summit
A detailed look at ketosis and ketogenesis.
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Down South Pulling Wars
Good fun.
TweetLooking At : Sep 18, 2016
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.
Secrets of the Windmill (Andrea Du Cane)
Wonderful exercise.
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This looks great.
'Secrets of the Windmill' is Andrea Du Cane's instructional video on performing the Kettlebell Windmill. Wonderful exercise.
Andrea explains (and demonstrates) the exercise itself, as well as the many variations possible and the path to progress to each. It's an extremely comprehensive offering.
Andrea Du Cane's 'Secrets of the Windmill'.
The Perfect Pull-Up
Wonderful tutorial.
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Wonderful tutorial.
Looking At : Sep 11, 2016
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.
Fireflies (Wireless Earbuds)
Listen while you train.
TweetI'm currently on the lookout for a pair of workout-friendly wireless headphones; to replace a wired pair which has finally decided to stop working. Well, one side has anyway.
These look interesting - the Fireflies. Anyone tried them, or anything similar? Any you'd recommend?
Fireflies.
Raw Supersets Conditioning (56kg Pistols, OAPs, 80kg pull-ups)
Wonderful combinations.
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Wonderful combinations.
Looking At : Sep 4, 2016
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.
Olympic Bar to Cambered Bar Converter
Great idea.
TweetThese look great. The deceptively simple Olympic Bar to Cambered Bar Converter; the video below will show you exactly what it is :
Good stuff.
Basic Agility Ladder Drills
Great demonstration.
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Great demonstration.
Looking At : Aug 28, 2016
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.
Intrinsic Strength Training (Angelo Grinceri)
A peek at Angelo Grinceri's own training philosophy.
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Squatting 25 People (Randy Richey)
A wonderful way to showcase strength.
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A wonderful way to showcase strength - a little people-squatting.
Looking At : Aug 21, 2016
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.
Mental Muscle Intensive (Logan Christopher)
Perfect.
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Brooke Wells & Friends Squatting @ Super Training
Great tips.
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Great tips, as well as a look at the Hip Circle (to encourage knees to push outward when squatting) in action.
Looking At : Aug 14, 2016
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 Newsletter, PDF and Kindle Editions
Dive in.
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Hairculese vs Hot Water Bottle
Good stuff Chris (@hairculese).
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Good stuff Chris (@hairculese).
Looking At : Aug 7, 2016
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.
Kettlebell Essentials (Max Shank)
Looks great.
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Looks great.
Kettlebell Essentials is a series of on-demand videos by Max Shank, demonstrating and explaining the various kettlebell techniques which he considers fundamental to training. Everything from Cleans and Swings up to complex movements such as the many varieties of Get-Up.
If you're just starting out, or looking to fine-tune specific aspects, check it out. Max Shank's Kettlebell Essentials.
Weighted Jumps
Great combination Johnny.
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Great combination Johnny.
Looking At : Jul 31, 2016
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 Weightlifting Life (Catalyst Athletics)
Looks great.
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Women's Deadlift Ladder (The CrossFit Games)
Very interesting event.
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Very interesting event - a Deadlift Ladder.
Looking At : Jul 24, 2016
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.
Live Video Streaming of Sports
Will we see live video streaming used for various sporting competitions?
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Questions : do you think it's likely we'll start to see it used for sporting competitions, at the Rio Olympics? Will there be people wearing 'hidden' cameras and holding up their 'phones during various events; and will anyone be attempting to stop them? Would love to hear your thoughts.
Elite Athletic Development 3 Seminar DVDs (Mike Robertson)
Fantastic.
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If you've ever seen Mike Robertson in action, you know what to expect. In these videos from the seminar - 12 hours in total - the team shares insights on the following areas :
- The R7 Approach to Training Supercharged - How to write consistently great programs in less time. Period.
- The Block Zero Concept - How to get new athletes introduced and up-to-speed in your training system in record time. This is ideal for young athletes, or vets who are new to your program.
- Single-Leg Training - The ins-and-outs of single-leg work, including when to use it, what it does, and how to coach it effectively.
- Dissecting the Tier System - Coach Kenn takes you step-by-step through how he writes and designs programs using his Tier System.
- Breathing and Core Training - An in-depth lecture on anatomy, followed up with practical application on how to get the most out of your core exercises.
- Establishing a Coaching Identity - Coach Kenn, a 28-year veteran in our field, tells you the truth about what it takes to be successful.
Bodyweight Training - Carry and Balance
Interesting combination.
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Interesting combination.
Looking At : Jul 17, 2016
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.
Neuro-Burner (Jon Bruney)
Very interesting idea.
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The Hook Grip
What, why and how.
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What, why and how.
Looking At : Jul 10, 2016
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.
Ring Training for Athletes (Mike Gillette)
Looks great.
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Mike Gillette.
- Pros & cons of permanent versus mobile ring set-ups
- Considerations for multiple ring set-ups
- Circuit-training with rings
- Stability training with rings
- Unilateral training with rings
- Using rings to manipulate range-of-motion
- Deliberate destabilization techniques
- Combining suspension and friction training techniques
- Integrating rings with other training modalities
Seated Box Jumps
Great exercise.
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Great exercise.
Looking At : Jul 3, 2016
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.
Attack Bandz
Very interesting idea.
TweetRemember Attack Bandz - the wrestling training tool? Very interesting idea.
I was talking to someone about them this morning, and explaining the overall concept. If you've never seen them, here's a brief demonstration of the Attack Bandz in action :
Good stuff.
Advanced Battle Rope Workout
Love a little rope work.
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Love a little rope work.
Looking At : Jun 26, 2016
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.
Street Workout (Al and Danny Kavadlo)
Superb.
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Juggling With A Punch
Chris 'Hairculese' Rider.
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A quick way to open a few drinks.
How They Got Started : Marco Pessoa
How the enigmatic Marco Pessoa got started.
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The enigmatic Javad Ghassabi.
Cheers Keith, greatly appreciated. Love hearing from people starting - or continuing - their training journey. It's a wonderful thing. I've got a few thoughts on how to go about fine-tuning things, as do a great many members of the community here I suspect. Will share them below, as well as in the Google+ area. NB : I'd also love to hear what everyone else would suggest for Keith. Leave a comment below, or over on Google+. Cheers.I had been working out for years in my athletic days but fell due to depression for several years, now I'm back lifting again but do not really have any heavy weights; only a pair of 17 pound dumbbells.
Being out for so long I am struggling to get my bodyfat and hormones in check. I love to lift, even do dumbbell cleans and snatches, but have no bench or barbells - I wish I had room for some.
I think my training sessions are not as effective but still get workouts in and do get a good sweat. I do sprinting on elliptical or outside after workout and burpees. My wife and I work together and I do try to teach her all the exercises learned from my sport days. Thank you and if you have suggestions on improving my training always grateful for suggestions or criticism.
Looking At : Jun 19, 2016
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 FitSleep
Get to sleep, fast.
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We've discussed a number of fitness devices over the years, including a few that keep track of your sleep.
Here's another one to add to the ever-growing list - the FitSleep :
indiegogo.com/projects/fitsleep-our-tracker-is-your-personal-lullaby--2#
Nice and simple.
Incidentally, my own routine is to use the MotionX app on my 'phone. Same idea - keeps track of how deeply asleep you are, and wakes you up when you're inbetween cycles (shortly before the time you set the alarm). Makes a huge difference.
Stability Ball Push Up Progressions (Brent Brookbush)
Nice one Brent.
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Nice one Brent.
Looking At : Jun 12, 2016
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.
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.
This week :
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.
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.
what we're saying
And if you'd like to see the comments as soon as they arrive, you can grab the RSS feed here.
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 and DVDs on Strength-Training & Nutrition (The Straight to the Bar Authors)
'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.
strength calendar
Looking for an upcoming competition, or know of one in your area? Why not add it to the spreadsheet.
TACFIT Commando
TACFIT Commando is Scott Sonnon's deceptively simple bodyweight program, used with great success by a wide range of military and law enforcement personnel. Everyone from the Israeli Secret Intelligence Service to Firefighters.
Incorporating a wide range of instructional ebooks, daily journals, mission calendars and demonstration videos; this is the ideal way to learn a new set of physical skills. Regardless of your starting point.
To find out more, swing by :
Fantastic.
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.
love your grip work?
Check out The Grip Authority. Fantastic site.
want to help out?
As you've doubtless noticed, in addition to the main site is a Community on Google+, Facebook and Twitter. Wherever you are, a daily dose of strength isn't all that far away.
To help run all of these sites, we're on the lookout for several additional Moderators. To welcome new community members, bring up new items to discuss and generally keep the conversations on track.
If you're already spending a bit of time at any of the above sites, and would like to offer your services as a Moderator, just drop us a line. And thanks for that, it really is appreciated.
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 : Fat Burning Ladder SuperSet Workout
- Al Kavadlo : STREET WORKOUT
- Diesel Crew : New Products: Grippin’ Window Decals
- Year of the Bear : Starting Strongman Program: Week 3
- Gains & Aesthetics : Motivational Video: Effort Is So Important (ft. CT Fletcher)
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
Dom D'Agostino on the Tim Ferris Show Very interesting area.Dr Dominic 'Dom' D'Agostino - an assistant professor in the Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology at the University of South Florida, Morsani College of Medicine - appears on episode 188 of Tim Ferris' podcast, discussing the ways in which the pursuit of size and strength impacts the pursuit of longevity. Fascinating indeed.
You can grab the audio here, or subscribe to the show on something like iTunes.
Dom D'Agostino on the Tim Ferris Show
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 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.
This is a superb resource. With a focus on law enforcement personnel, it takes the form of a Facebook Group as well as one on one coaching sessions. Created by the incredible Jeff Wilson.
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.