How Body Fat Affects Athletic Performance
This is an outstanding article here. When I committed to go play football at the University of Virginia, my first thought was that I would have to get a lot bigger. My workouts looked like something you would find in Arnold Schwarzenegger’s journal and I tried to eat everything in sight. In one Winter I went from 170lbs. to 197lbs. I went from running in the mid 4.4’s in the 40 yard dash to 4.6. As you can guess, I was not the same athlete. My speed returned as soon as I got back down to my normal playing weight.
This article is a must read for athletes that are carrying around extra body fat because of a poor diet and for those that believe getting bigger will boost performance. Train the right way, eat clean and watch your performance take off!
The Real Reason Why People MUST Squat Differently
If you zoom in on the picture above of the kids squatting, you will see a few different types of squat patterns. Some have a narrow stance and others have a wide stance. Some can sit almost with their butt to their heels, while others stop with the thighs parallel to the ground.
I’ve been saying this for years, but everyone should not look alike when squatting. The main reason for this is bony hip anatomy. Myofascial work done to the hips can help with mobility, but bone anatomy and confortability will ultimately determine how one squats. Make sure to check out this excellent article from Ryan DeBell, M.S., D.C to learn how to perfect YOUR squat pattern!
Video of the Week – Turkish Get Up (Advanced Progression)
If you are looking for an exercise to improve “dynamic stability”, you are going to love this this week’s video installment. Check out DSP Performance Coach Rekha Ayalur as she adds a little twist to one of our favorite exercises!
P.S.~ We are bringing Speed Training Saturday’s back! Coach Rashawn and myself will be running the workouts beginning on 5/2 at 9:00 a.m. and they will combine speed development training with explosive bodyweight, medicine ball and kettlebell exercises. Registration will open tomorrow, so make sure to sign up right away to reserve a space.
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