The Best Way to Get Great at Pull Ups

The Best Way to Get Great at Pull Ups

I was trying to come up with a clever Brittney Spears inspired headline like “Wanna strong pull up body? Better jump, b*tch!” but I’ll keep this professional (ish). Here’s the bottom line, if you want to safely and effectively build upper body strength to do solid bodyweight pull ups, try these “jumping” or “eccentric” pull ups where you start from the top and slowly lower yourself down. Note, if you’ve never done these before you will likely be very sore the next day.

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Paloff Press for a Strong Core and Happy Lower Back

Paloff Press for a Strong Core and Happy Lower Back

If the bulk of your core strengthening work consists of sit ups, crunches and other core flexing moves, consider doing more core stability or anti-rotation exercises like planks or this move called a Pallof Press. The trick is to pick a resistance that challenges you while still allowing you to move with symmetry and good posture (hips level, shoulders down, pelvis tucked). Start light with 2-3 sets of 12 reps each side and build. You will feel this all over especially in your core and glutes. These are particularly good if you have lower back issues and likely a safer choice than sit ups.

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"Flip Dog Knee to Elbow" Your Way to a Strong Core

"Flip Dog Knee to Elbow" Your Way to a Strong Core

I am a big fan of exercises that do multiple things at once. And I don't know anyone who doesn't want a stronger core and a more mobile psoas. Pso-what? PSOAS. It's a super awesome and complicated muscle that attaches your leg to your spine so you can flex your hip and flex and twist your trunk (among other things).

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How to Start a Gratitude Practice to Improve Wellness

How to Start a Gratitude Practice to Improve Wellness

I shared in my latest newsletter the idea of picking just one thing to make things better. My one thing these days is to better connect with gratitude. The proven physical and mental benefits of a gratitude practice are undeniable. Gratitude can improve many aspects of your wellness including reduced pain, better physical performance, improved sleep and even better relationships.

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