All Articles & Reviews by
Scott Andrew Bird
(12884 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, 36) 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, Facebook, the Daily 'Paper'; 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.
MONKII 360 (Portable Workout Setup)
Looks great - especially for travel workouts.
Looks great (especially for travel workouts).
The MONKII 360 is a door-mounted band workout system, designed with interval training in mind. Looks ideal for a quick session in the hotel room, or wherever you end up when on-the-road.
A spot of video :
The MONKII 360.
All About The Gut Microbiome (Joe Scott)
Very interesting area.
Very interesting area.
Looking At : Nov 17, 2019
What we were talking about this week on Facebook, Twitter and in The Daily 'Paper'.
During the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Facebook, Twitter, in The Daily 'Paper' and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
NeoRhythm (Neurostimulation Headband)
Interesting idea.
Interesting idea.
The NeoRhythm Neurostimulation Headband - using a combination of electromagnetism and positioning to aid focus, sleep, relaxation and so on.
Although I'm slightly skeptical of this device in particular, it's certainly a fascinating area.
The NeoRhythm.
Dr David Sinclair on the Informational Theory of Aging, Nicotinamide Mononucleotide, Resveratrol & More (FoundMyFitness)
Fascinating.
Fascinating.
Looking At : Nov 10, 2019
What we were talking about this week on Facebook, Twitter and in The Daily 'Paper'.
During the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Facebook, Twitter, in The Daily 'Paper' and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
Swytch (eBike Conversion Kit)
This looks great.
This looks great.
The Swytch is a relatively simple device for converting any bicycle into an ebike. And yes, this is the second generation of the device.
The benefits - people typically ride further, and more frequently. If you'd love to spend more time on the bike and less in the car, this is a great solution.
The Swytch.
Do This After Every Workout (OfficialThenX)
Great idea.
Great idea.
Looking At : Nov 3, 2019
What we were talking about this week on Facebook, Twitter and in The Daily 'Paper'.
During the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Facebook, Twitter, in The Daily 'Paper' and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
ChopBox (Smart Cutting Board)
This looks great.
This looks great.
It's fair to say that I love the bulk preparation of food - with the careful weighing of much of it - and I suspect I'm not the only one. With that in mind, take a look at The ChopBox : a waterproof cutting board with a built-in scale.
Perfect combination.
A bit of video to show you just what's on offer :
The ChopBox.
Mind-Machine Interfaces (Isaac Arthur)
Fascinating topic.
I'm love Isaac's videos in general, and this is certainly a fascinating topic. Really looking forward to devices like these.
Looking At : Oct 27, 2019
What we were talking about this week on Facebook, Twitter and in The Daily 'Paper'.
During the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Facebook, Twitter, in The Daily 'Paper' and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
The Triage Kit (First Aid And Gear Repair)
This looks great.
This looks great.
I spend a fair bit of time outdoors (hiking/training/cycling etc) and this looks like an ideal accompaniment. The Triage Kit is a combination first aid and gear repair offering, in an incredibly lightweight (93g!) package.
A bit of video to show you just what's on offer :
The Triage Kit.
The Documentary Series 'Unnatural Selection' (Netflix)
This series dives in to the wonderful world of biohacking - looking at both the incredible potential and ethical implications involved. Loved it.
This series dives in to the wonderful world of biohacking - looking at both the incredible potential and ethical implications involved. Loved it.
Looking At : Oct 20, 2019
What we were talking about this week on Facebook, Twitter and in The Daily 'Paper'.
During the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Facebook, Twitter, in The Daily 'Paper' and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
'The Dinosaur Files' for Oct 2019
I love these.
I love these.
The latest issue of Brooks Kubik's 'The Dinosaur Files' (Oct 2019) is now available. An instant .PDF download. Perfect.
If you've never read one, these are monthly newsletters which comprise a mix of pieces by Brooks, well-known old-time strongmen and the Dinosaur Training community. As an example, here's a brief look at last months' issue :
It's a great mix.
You can grab the latest incarnation here :
brookskubik.com/dinosaurfiles-october2019.html .
How Fast is a Two Hour Marathon Pace? (Mike Boyd)
Brutal pace.
No doubt you're well aware of Eliud Kipchoge's Vienna marathon by now. Even if you aren't, this video shows just what a brutal pace this is.
Looking At : Oct 13, 2019
What we were talking about this week on Facebook, Twitter and in The Daily 'Paper'.
During the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Facebook, Twitter, in The Daily 'Paper' and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
Handy Gym (Portable Inertial Trainer)
Interesting idea.
Interesting idea.
Was just having a conversation about the Handy Gym, a portable inertial training device that is roughly equivalent to 'weighted band training'. The video below will show you what I mean :
Looks ideal for rehab work, and for quick sessions when travelling. Keen to give one a try.
Handy Gym.
Robert Oberst's Biggest Lifts (The Strongest Man in History, Season 1)
Love this show.
Love this show.
Looking At : Oct 6, 2019
What we were talking about this week on Facebook, Twitter and in The Daily 'Paper'.
During the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Facebook, Twitter, in The Daily 'Paper' and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
Fridge Eye (Smart Fridge Camera)
Very interesting idea.
Very interesting idea.
Fridge Eye is a camera for inside the fridge - as well as a 'phone app - to turn any fridge into a 'Smart Fridge'.
The smartphone software includes object-recognizing AI, though I suspect the device is quite powerful even without that. The ability to quickly check what's in the fridge at any time (particularly when shopping) is wonderful.
A spot of video to show you what's on offer :
Fridge Eye.
David Sinclair on Intermittent Fasting (Modern Wisdom Podcast #066)
Got questions on both Intermittent Fasting and longevity? Great.
We get a lot of questions on both Intermittent Fasting and longevity. Here's David Sinclair's view on the combination.
Looking At : Sep 29, 2019
What we were talking about this week on Facebook, Twitter and in The Daily 'Paper'.
During the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Facebook, Twitter, in The Daily 'Paper' and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
Eve - A Trainer, Dietitian & Coach in Your Pocket (AI Personal Trainer)
Very interesting combination.
Very interesting combination.
Eve is a mix of Personal Trainer & Dietitian; blending a human and an AI-powered assistant. Sounds wonderful.
I'm certainly keen to check this one out myself; very much looking forward to it. In the meantime, a spot of video to help explain what it's all about :
Eve - A Trainer, Dietitian & Coach in Your Pocket.
The Secret to Aging in Reverse (David Sinclair on Health Theory)
Fantastic.
Fantastic. And if you'd like to dive in a little deeper, Sinclair's book (Lifespan) is a great place to start.
Looking At : Sep 22, 2019
What we were talking about this week on Facebook, Twitter and in The Daily 'Paper'.
During the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Facebook, Twitter, in The Daily 'Paper' and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
My Quarter Century in The Iron Game [Kindle Version] (Sig Klein, John Wood)
And yes, his training continued well past that point.
Looks great. This compilation is from several of Sig Klein's articles in Strength and Health Magazine, put together in Kindle form by John Wood. Taking the form of an autobiography, it covers the period from 1924 - 1945. And yes, his training continued well past that point. Sig Klein's My Quarter Century in The Iron Game.
Arnold Schwarzenegger's Fridge & Current Training (Men's Health)
Nice one.
Nice one.
Looking At : Sep 15, 2019
What we were talking about this week on Facebook, Twitter and in The Daily 'Paper'.
During the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Facebook, Twitter, in The Daily 'Paper' and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
ecoKeto (Vegan, Keto-Focused Nutritional Supplement)
Interesting combination.
Interesting combination.
Although I'm not vegan personally, I'm certainly a fan of the occasional dose of nutritional supplementation. Great way to top up on things.
Still, I'm perhaps not the perfect candidate for this offering in particular. How about you - what's your own diet like?
Just in case, a bit of video :
ecoKeto (Vegan, Keto-Focused Nutritional Supplement).
How To Begin Training (Without Equipment) At Home (Thenx)
As much as I love the home gym, it's always great to see how easy it is to get started without one.
As much as I love the home gym, it's always great to see how easy it is to get started without one.
Looking At : Sep 8, 2019
What we were talking about this week on Facebook, Twitter and in The Daily 'Paper'.
During the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Facebook, Twitter, in The Daily 'Paper' and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
Intake (Magnetic Nasal Band)
Interesting device.
Interesting device.
Although I've certainly seen nasal bands (and tape) before, this is the first magnetic system I've come across. Wouldn't mind trying one out.
The device is pretty much what you'd expect. For the uninitiated, a spot of video :
The Intake Nasal Band.
Aging - The Cause, And Potential Reversal (David Sinclair)
Fascinating area.
Fascinating area.
Looking At : Sep 1, 2019
What we were talking about this week on Facebook, Twitter and in The Daily 'Paper'.
During the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Facebook, Twitter, in The Daily 'Paper' and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
Dinosaur Arm Training [Kindle Version] (Brooks Kubik)
A great way to dive into the 'Dinosaur' world.
Looks great. This is the Kindle version of Brooks Kubik's Dinosaur Arm Training course, for those of us who missed the original (or would simply love to have a Kindle version - nice and handy). Various arm training methods and a few specific routines. A great way to dive into the 'Dinosaur' world. Brooks Kubik's Dinosaur Arm Training.
How To Lift Atlas Stones (Rob Orlando)
Great explanation.
Great explanation.
Looking At : Aug 25, 2019
What we were talking about this week on Facebook, Twitter and in The Daily 'Paper'.
During the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Facebook, Twitter, in The Daily 'Paper' and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
Dullo Pillow (Neck Relief Pillow for Back, Side Sleeping)
Remember the 'sleeping on your side' video from a few weeks ago?
Remember the 'sleeping on your side' video from a few weeks ago?
The Dullo Pillow looks ideal for doing just that. With customised 'craters' on each side (one for sleeping on your back, one for sleeping on your side) and two heights to pick from, it's far more customisable than the one I'm currently using.
Take a look at what I mean :
Dullo Pillow.
Push-Up Technique (Thenx)
Great explanation.
Great explanation.
Looking At : Aug 18, 2019
What we were talking about this week on Facebook, Twitter and in The Daily 'Paper'.
During the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Facebook, Twitter, in The Daily 'Paper' and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
Zero Breeze Mark Ⅱ (Battery-Powered Portable AirCon)
Love training outdoors?
Love training outdoors?
The Zero Breeze Mark Ⅱ is a battery-powered portable air conditioner, designed for use in a tent/RV/truck - anywhere you like to spend a bit of time after a serious outdoor session. Or even a hike.
Although I'm slightly skeptical about the cooling potential of such a small device, I'm certainly keen to try one out here.
How about you - ever used anything similar (perhaps the first generation of the device)?
A spot of video :
The Zero Breeze Mark Ⅱ.
How to Get Bigger Biceps ('Athlean-X')
Great information.
Great information.
Looking At : Aug 11, 2019
What we were talking about this week on Facebook, Twitter and in The Daily 'Paper'.
During the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Facebook, Twitter, in The Daily 'Paper' and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
Dr Pocket (Portable TENS Massager)
Interesting idea.
Interesting idea.
The Dr Pocket is a Portable TENS Massage device, for a quick dose of pain relief as needed.
Although I'm slightly skeptical about the ability of such a small device, I'm certainly keen to try one out here.
How about you - ever used anything similar (perhaps the first generation of the device)?
A spot of video :
Dr Pocket.
The Origins of the Food Pyramid ('Today I Found Out')
Very interesting area.
Very interesting area.
Looking At : Aug 4, 2019
What we were talking about this week on Facebook, Twitter and in The Daily 'Paper'.
During the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Facebook, Twitter, in The Daily 'Paper' and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
Parásole 2.0 (Recovery Footwear)
Interesting idea.
Interesting idea.
The Parásole is a combination sock/shoe hybrid, with a strong focus on the recovery side of things. Whether that's some form of weight training, or just spending a fair bit of time on your feet.
I'm keen to try them out (for deadlifting particularly) - and will share a few thoughts once I've spent some time ith them.
A spot of video :
The Parásole 2.0.
The Ideal Position for Sleep ('What I've Learned')
Some great tips for getting some quality shut-eye (still my favourite recovery technique).
Some great tips for getting some quality shut-eye (still my favourite recovery technique).
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, you might like to swing by the Daily 'Paper' for a somewhat more frequent dose of training goodness.
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.
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.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.
air pollution & health
We discuss air pollution quite a bit on this site - particularly the various health impacts involved. If you'd like to dive in a little deeper, I invite you to check out the following :
- The 'Electric Cars' list on Twitter
- The 'Leave it in the Ground' newsletter
- The daily 'EVs in Australia' 'paper'
and of course :
Cheers.
checking out
MONKII 360 (Portable Workout Setup)Looks great (especially for travel workouts).
The MONKII 360 is a door-mounted band workout system, designed with interval training in mind. Looks ideal for a quick session in the hotel room, or wherever you end up when on-the-road.
A spot of video :
The MONKII 360.
And for the full list of the Books & DVDs we recommend, swing by the Recommended Books & DVDs page. To check out what we're reading at the moment (and to make suggestions), join us on Goodreads.
See you there.