Yeah I really like that term. I just like to lift but have no interest in pigeon holding myself to “strongman” or “powerlifter”. I just enjoy myself and set goals that I find valuable to me
I am a 60 year old female. I have a rack and bench in my shop building. I have been lifting using the 5x5 app for almost a year. Occasionally, I row or run. My goal is not to be a “strong man,” but to build bone and muscle and maintain youthful agility as I age. I follow you for your humor and your common sense, straight forward advice. And the beard.
"I am a 60 year old female. I have a rack..." Sorry, but I must admit that I stopped and snickered softly to myself when reading this, before continuing on to the rest of your response ;)
I'm just a mechanic that was looking up how to lift properly to strengthen my muscles so I hurt them less at my physical job. It's worked great. I learned the best deadlift from you and figured out how badly I was using my body to pick up heavy things at work. Also now I really enjoy pushing dead cars into the shop.
haha keep it going dude try getting strong at goodmornings and Romanian deadlifts, strong spinal Erectors really helps your lower back when your bent over working under the hood
The *fried CNS* meme will never not be funny, there were people who actually thought you could destroy your nervous system doing a 3x3 on deadlifts lmao
@Calvin Ilkay how can you say you need more volume than 3x3 if volume consists of the weight lifted as well. you're missing half the formula but making conclusions already
Sorry to hear you got injured, but the fact that you're here at all, says it all. You alone have decided not to give up, unlike so many others who already have. Consider this: when you think of giving up, someone else is still going. Don't fear failure, fear being in the place or situation this time, next year. Good luck. Stay strong.
Hello fellow cyclist. Hip stability is so important on the bike for knee issues. Highly recommend a bike fit if you haven't had one already, some physio's offer it, but a good accredited bike fitter works as well, if not better. Cheers.
I did squats for five consecutive days last week, with various intensities, and they felt amazing. I was actually surprised but I'm afraid I won't be able to keep up
@@manuelnaim9206 I belive that, i learned that our body adapts to every environment you put it into, 7 years ago when i started competing in judo and coach told me to start going to the gym in the morning and have practice on the evening i thought ill die, after few months my body adapted. We are not made of steel, but we arent made of glass either!
Hi Alan. I'm a 71 year old retired software engineer happy to get back in the gym after all this COVID-19 happiness. My goal is to get in shape to take on more challenging terrain on my dirt bike. Thanks for the videos! -Bill
Hey man, not sure if you ever go through these comments. Just want to say thank you. Got out of the Corps in 2015 and really struggled with PTSD and depression and really did not take care of myself. I found your and Brian's videos and they really inspired me to get back to the gym and take care of myself more. Keep up the hard work man, thanks for helping me to get out.
I watch Alan because he's a no bullshit to the point type of guy. I lift weights, I vary between strength work and bodybuilding but I reccomend Alan's channel to every one I possibly can lol.
Alan is one of the few guys who's actually grown and learned and updated his message accordingly over the years, and he's careful not to dish out advise as gospel because he knows there's a lot we don't know and different equally valid ways to achieve the same goals. That is a sign of a man that is both smart and humble. Most of these fitness youtubers act like they know it all from day one and never change their minds about anything, which inevitably ends up with them mostly saying bro science bullshit.
None of us like enforcing the link alarm but yah it's not a gym for heavy lifting. Its just for supporting healthy activity levels. That's why I joined a strongman gym even though I work at a planet fitness
I’m a high school football player / wrestling that weight trains a lot . You taught me how to deadlift and squat a million times better than any of my coaches or trainers have been able to and go back to your videos all the time to freshen up and form tips etc . Thank you
Not even gonna lie what helps me "recover" from being a "powerlifter" is moving more when I am sore. In my opinion, if I don't do anything when I'm sore I hurt longer than if I'm constantly moving.
I’m a so-called “barbell enthusiast” 😁 Just training to stay healthy and active. I first found your channel when I was recovering from a minor back tweak and looking to improve my squat and deadlift form. I really enjoyed your videos and have been a fan every since!
@@almosthollow2070 well I thought that was pretty much the norm. They blend like barbecue and beer. So most people don't workout to be ripped like Blacksmith Andre?
I'm an overall fitness enthusiast. I like to lift weights, to carry stuff, to run, to cycle and to swim. Sometimes focusing on one thing, other times on another. Just enjoying the process
but many people that don’t exercise would refer to a bodybuilder as a weight lifter. I think unless you’re aware of the difference between powerlifting, oly weight lifting and bodybuilding ect then you’re none the wiser. Even a lot of gym casuals don’t even know how to define Olympic weightlifting. So I’d say it’s safe to call yourself a weightlifter.
I’m 48, have been lifting since 18 and never call myself anything (out loud), not even a weightlifter. I do it out of a lifelong passion for the feel of the weight. Also, I love the philosophy of your channel even more than the great advice. Thanks!
My interests and goals lie mostly in hypertrophy and bodybuilding. I love the channel because of the powerlifting advice, general life advice and because of the metal.
I started out as a "Powerlifter" for a few years, your channel being amongst the first sources of information and inspiration by the way! Then after a few years of VERY dedicated training for powerlifting, I kinda lost interest in training that way and started doing a lot more hiking/outdoor related activities. However I started to really miss Barbell training, now after a few years I've found balance between these things and I found out I'm an outdoor, gaming and Barbell enthusiast. That's it. No Bodybuilder, no Powerlifter. But I like to lift things and do things. Very much appreciate your style of making videos. Thanks man.
I am a dude, trying to look like a dude who knows what kind of dude he is. I lift so I can carry all the groceries in at once and impress my wife’s boyfriend.
I'm a rock climber who recently decided to take strength training more seriously. I started training with barbells a few times a week and I've already seen some significant improvement. Your vids have helped a lot!
I think Alan is right in that most people at the gym just aren't training very hard, and will never run into overtraining problems. However, there are people that are overtraining and thus not making optimum gains or getting injured because they're not recovering enough.
I suppose programming is paramount to new lifters and competitive alike, one to keep their head on straight and the other to optimize every lift. But myself as a more casual enthusiast in lifting, have had no issues just pushing myself with basic concepts like leg day, shoulder day etc. usually hitting every muscle group at least twice a weak working 6 days a week with 1 rest as usual routine. Squatting 385lb 1 rep max, bench 250, and deadlift 425, at 185lbs myself. Got there through sheer will and hard work in the gym. Following all kinds of guys like thrall, athlene-x, etc for tips and form control. But otherwise flying solo the whole way with no programming
I'm always worried that I'm either over or under training without realizing it! Probably because I was bombarded by videos about overtraining when I first started lifting. Now I just wing it and hope for the best 😂
@@kooljawss I think the most important are compound movements, particularly bench press and overhead press since climbers almost exclusively so pulling movements. But I also love squats and deadlifts, I just think they're great movements which train the whole body. I'd recommend the channel "hooper's beta" for more specific things, he explains a lot of climbing specific gym exercises
@@kooljawss pull ups, a lot of grip work in different positions that focuses primarily on hanging. A little calf and leg work like squats and calf raises won't hurt just make sure to not get to strong at these sinds you'll carry to much unnecessary muscle. Dips are really handy for mantels and such. I'd also recommend doing some wrist, core, hamstring and rotator cuff work to prevent injury (ALSO MAKE SURE TO DO TIB RAISES). That's about it I think. Oh wait your commend is 3 years old... Well maybe someone else can use the advise.
I’m someone who is trying to move and break a sweat everyday while having fun. Since being out of the gym, I’ve enjoyed running, jump rope, and aiming to become a member of rep city!
Since getting married and having my first kid, my outlook on training has changed drastically. I don't have the time anymore to dedicate to training like I did before. I train now just to keep healthy, an hour weight training session at 6am 5 days a week, and an hour on the cross trainer at 8pm 7 days of the week. I'm probably in the best shape of my life, feel good, and eat more than I did before. Training in this manner, gives me more family time, and makes sure I'm healthy, rather than having this 'just want to be as big as possible' mindset I had before.
Christ so your baseline just trying to be healthy and strong is an hour of training 5 days a week and an hour of cardio every day of the week? That's 13 hours a week.
@@liammcclish4291 yep sure is. I used to do 2 and a hour weight training sessions pre marriage. Now I'll a quick weight session I'm the morning before everyone's up, and then I've purchased a Cross trainer for home so can literally do an hour anytime in the day when it's quiet. I'm also a lot more relaxed with my eating, so don't track calories anymore, I don't just eat crap everyday, but I keep things balanced allowing myself to enjoy the food I like. I'm probably in the best shape of my life right now, and training and diet is just easy, whereas in the past it was so taxing when having to always log my calories and always logging my gym sessions.
Rock climber, runner, general outdoorsman. I enjoy lifting weights and feeling strong enough to help my patients safely move (I am a hospital-based occupational therapist). Your channel is one of the best!
You’re correct Alan when I’ve taken so called rest days when I’ve come back I don’t feel any fresher and raring to go in fact the opposite.It’s all in the mind if you think you’re overtraining you will not work out to your max. Saying you’re overtraining is a excuse to take a break you’re weak. As they say no pain no gain. Get in the gym and no more bs.
I’m a rugby player from Australia and I always watch your videos because you always have good insights and tips on strength training which works well with my programs. Not only that but it’s refreshing to see you use your experience for information rather than follow fitness trends.
Listen, if you're in doubt, just approach overtraining and recovery like Louie Simmons does, with high volume low weight workout. Use bands, dumbbells, take a nice long walk. High volume low weight workouts will increase your blood flow, hence increasing tissue repair. Vary the load, have a speed day with lighter weights, focus on high force production. You will never recover if you do not increase your work capacity.
"Is this a bad day, bad week, or reoccuring theme"... gold right there. That makes all the difference. Also I've been a trainer for like 5-6 years now and am not really a powerlifter or bodybuilder. Just wanna be bic and stronk, but lately, also be able to run far and fast. And jump high. Do all the things basically. I watch your content because you provide a good perspective on the strength training side of things - just one of many people I source ideas from.
I've always thought of recovery as "Have I had a good, full nights rest". I'm only a year or two into lifting but my mindset has always been about the quality and amount of sleep I've had in between work outs. This may not be correct but its what's felt right for me.
Im a former fat guy who fell in love with lifting heavy and knowing that i can do things now that i couldn't and i will be able to do even more in the future. I dont compete so i wouldnt call myself a powerlifter or strongman but theyd be kinda close to my training style.
Alan you are a true beauty! In a time where saying anything remotely controversial will inevitably cause people to go off the deep end about how wrong you are, you stick to your principals and say it like it is. I know this might be different, but when I was younger I started biking with my brother in-law and his friends. They were much more fit, and had better bikes. I hated it at first because I just 'couldn't' (in my mind) keep up. Riding with them taught me to just keep a positive attitude (which is incredibly important), and push harder. I learned that the reason I couldn't keep up was that I allowed defeat to enter my mind, and when I was tired I gave up too easily. Something happens when you decide to go just a bit harder when your lazy thoughts are screaming 'stop I'm tired'. The human body is much more capable than most people believe. I gave up lifting for nearly 20 years because of bad shoulders and lower back pain. In the end my posture, muscle imbalance and lifting habits were causing my back pain, and my shoulders although they are bad, got better with exercise. Obviously there are limits here but you are bang on, doing nothing is the worst thing to do. I am trying to pass this type of advice to my kids and other young people. We need to build this next generation up, because the rest of the world seems to be teaching them that they don't have to work hard, and that they should avoid anything that is stressful or 'hard'. Thanks a million!
I don't compete in anything, I just wanna be strong and reasonably fast with running. I've totaled my body from anorexia and having numbers to focus on other than calories and building a good relationship with food and my body makes it so much easier to keep eating.
Lean towards “powerlifting” because a lot of how I train and what I train is power lifting esc, but in the grand scheme, I’m just lifting weights not competing or prepping to compete
I use physical exercise for my mental health. I have depression and the only thing that consistently helps alleviate my symptoms is exercise. I do strength and flexibility training and while I train both simultaneously, I alternate goals; for months I focus on getting stronger while my flexibility training is part of my active recovery and then for some months I'll focus on my flexibility training while using strength training as a supplement and to maintain strength. I have found that you have to listen to your body but also use your mind to push yourself to progress. I've been watching your videos for years and I'm really liking you're new mind set. I feel that this aligns more with how I like to do things. Movement is what matters, find what moves you. Thanks for the great content Alan!
@@jacobtworks I use hook grip for pulls! I think there is actually a fair amount of carryover from climbing that benefits hook grip. Climbing is painful on the hands, so the “pain” from hook grip is easily overlooked. Further, the “half crimp” grip for climbing is basically hook grip just on a ledge and not around a bar
Hey Alan, thanks for this video. I'm new to powerlifting (just under 1.5 years). I was lying in bed this morning thinking about how "over trained" I've felt the last two days. The barbell just hasn't been moving and I decided to take today as an extra recovery day. That probably would have been an OK answer too, but this video made me reflect enough to find some ways to approach my workout today with some balance. I didn't hit some amazing PR, and things still didn't feel back to 100%, but I got to the gym and I picked up some heavy things. It felt better than the last few days. Just wanted to let you know that your content matters and it helps me. Love your videos, keep it up!
Rippetoe said it well: that as you progress in strength, the margin for error for you to overshoot your capacity to adapt (recover) becomes slimmer and slimmer. A total novice has to try really hard, to not recover from workouts. It's also human nature to extend a break beyond the minum necessary.
@@blackbacon4146 well, a beginner has a lot of adaptation potential available, very little stress causes growth, while overshooting (doing too much work) is not very hard since weights involved are light, and so recovery is easier. More advance lifters get involved with heavy, highly stressful lifts, so if you go over the top, it can wreck you by a greater margin, requiring more/better rest. Similarly if you are advanced and lift too light, your body won't respond because of insufficient stress. It's about our ability to recover, the heavier the weights get, the harder it is to do so in a short space of time. Also, discipline is severe. Extended training blocks of 8,12,16 weeks will leave you drained of all willpower. It may take you a couple of weeks for the body to be ready for another round but our minds may need a little more down time. Willpower is being trained at the same time as our bodies.
I’m 55 years old barbell enthusiast I’ve lifted weights off and on since I was in high school I’m a full time firefighter/ emt , I just got diagnosed with prostrate cancer 11/10/21 my prognosis is good so far ,I’m lifting again after a long layoff due to a shoulder injury keep the great weight lifting videos going I get a lot inspiration and motivation from watching!
I think a lot of people aren’t overstrained, their under stimulated. Took me a while to realize that I’m just different and squatting for a lot of volume just helps
I am a hobby kickboxer and "barbell enthusiast" from Germany. I just like going to the gym and like to see a different "type" of lifting! and you are a great guy and fun to watch:)
Never put a label on what I do but I train more for size and strength, but more bodybuilding rather than powerlifting or strongman. Here as I'm trying to educate and better myself around weightlifting and appreciate your no nonsense approach to lifting. Watching from a far in the north east of Scotland
Because you asked... I'm a 56 year old ultra endurance mountain bike racer. In the past three years I've learned and benefited from structured strength training during my relatively short off-season and am just now in my second year of tapering that into strength maintenance as my season gets underway. I found my way to you and your channel after following a lot of the Starting Strength material. I really appreciate your personal approach and recognition that we all come to strength training with different objectives. Thanks a ton!
just a novice 21 year old, dreaming of powerlifting. started my gym life 7months ago. now weighing 127lbs, Deadlifting 300lbs 1rm, squatting 200lbs for 3s, and benching 133 for 3s as well. i really hope im doing well, never had anyone critique my progress yet and i really hope im doing well for my pace! edit: im a manlet too @ 5'6 🤣
Thank you, your vids are insping and educational, 65 years old, first time in a gym(P..F..) 5 months ago, just be safe, pride @ the door, currently powerlifting training with an Olympic WL club that has produced Internat and Olympic competitors, from the start I've been training 5/6 days a week, sometimes twice a day. You've compelled me to compete in USAPL Masters 65/69 division 63kg weight class, signed for my 1st meet in Aug.
You and Brian Alsruhe are my go-to when I need good info about strength training and strongman stuff. I do road bike, capoeira, calisthenics and I'm a strength barbell enthusiast. Greetings from 🇨🇵🙏🏾
Same. Strength helps with everything for an upper body standpoint. I'm a dummy when it comes to leg/ankle locks. No amount of strength seems to help me there lol
@@masterroshi4151 I think it’s general right, attacking the ankle/heal is such a weak area of the body. I feel your best bet is being strong and athletic to keep your base and not get swept where they can attack. If you do get swept it’s all techical to escape as you know.
Been rock climbing for many years as my primary sport now, where good training information was seriously lacking till like 2 years ago, so following channels like yours helped me pick up the training info I needed. Thanks again!
I am a barbell enthusiast and i appreciate your high quality content aswell as your clear and entertaining way of presentation. I can say that your Videos changed my life as an athlete. Hopefully i will visit your Gym one day and have a good training session. Greetings from Germany.
Per your request, I strength train utilizing progressive resistance. Thank you for acknowledging the stresses of life being REAL factors in our training sessions. Some days it seems like no matter how great we feel physically ready and motivated to hit the iron, once we get to it, our minds begin to wonder in the direction of current and/or pending issues. Be it personal or work related, it can really be a session killer. Getting past it can literally make the difference between having a great session or having a mediocre, "just get it done" type session. Appreciative of your sharing of knowledge. Thank you for serving. Semper Fi. 🇺🇲
I'm a martial artist that uses elements of powerlifting to get stronger. I watch this channel for that but mostly for you because you are entertaining and have a good story as an entrepreneur and good training philosophies. There's a lot more to learn from you than how to move a bar.
I built my own gym a few years ago "pre covid" due to NOT wanting to be the 25%.. im not strong or overly fit, but i am active and getting better daily :D
Going to start primarily referring to myself as a barbell enthusiast
Oh a fellow barbell enthusiast? How do u do sire.
Yeah I only do one dumbell exercise.(side lateral raises).
Yeah I really like that term. I just like to lift but have no interest in pigeon holding myself to “strongman” or “powerlifter”. I just enjoy myself and set goals that I find valuable to me
Could also call yourself a physical culturist, which is the lifters' version of adding esquire to your name.
Same
“I’m over-gained” Dom Mazzetti
I heard gun shots right after i read your comment.
That's impossible.
Leg Day is recovery day
I am a 60 year old female. I have a rack and bench in my shop building. I have been lifting using the 5x5 app for almost a year. Occasionally, I row or run. My goal is not to be a “strong man,” but to build bone and muscle and maintain youthful agility as I age. I follow you for your humor and your common sense, straight forward advice. And the beard.
I love you
love that beard ngl
This is great :D
totally agree, he is rockin the beard....
"I am a 60 year old female. I have a rack..."
Sorry, but I must admit that I stopped and snickered softly to myself when reading this, before continuing on to the rest of your response ;)
I train like a powerlifter but I don't identify as one. I identify as poor.
I identify as an American Psycho
Well said, I’m the same way
😆😆😂😂
???????????????????????????????????????????? AAAAAAAAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH
Man, same lol
I overtrain for a month then over recover for 11 months every year so I'm an expert on this.
Haha ditto
@@Dinckelburg been there
january i bet
Lmao not huge on weights but right there with you.
I'm just a mechanic that was looking up how to lift properly to strengthen my muscles so I hurt them less at my physical job. It's worked great. I learned the best deadlift from you and figured out how badly I was using my body to pick up heavy things at work. Also now I really enjoy pushing dead cars into the shop.
preach man
Well done
haha keep it going dude try getting strong at goodmornings and Romanian deadlifts, strong spinal Erectors really helps your lower back when your bent over working under the hood
Same. I’m a 48 year old blue collar elevator mechanic and didn’t know that I was lifting things wrong my whole life until a few years ago.
"You gotta train before you can overtrain" - David Goggins
Goggins nutthugger crew checking in
"when you think you're done, you're only at 40% of what your body is capable of" - Also Dave Goggins
i love the "you're not over training, your legs just hurt"
Pow, right in the kisser
I cuddle my own nutz, thank you.
I’m a trying-to-not-look-like-pillsbury-doughboy-without-a-shirt-on enthusiast
I’m just here putting myself back together after surgery, chemo and radiation ☢️ ⚡️Thanks for everything
Keep fightin the good fight brother
Keep it pushin man. I wish my patients were as motivated about their health and recovery as you!
Keep fighting brother
attention seeker
@@kkjjjggff2473 you cold magnificent bastard.
I’m a bacon enthusiast... lifting weights is just how I maintain my lifestyle
Bacon is a lifestyle
People call that lifestyle keto
I can relate to this way of thinking
The *fried CNS* meme will never not be funny, there were people who actually thought you could destroy your nervous system doing a 3x3 on deadlifts lmao
if u do bench+deadlift+squat, 3 times per week, each 3x3, after 2- 3 months you will stop progress if natty
@@incorectulpolitic whats your point?
@@rickarderlandsson5906 that you CAN overtrain
@Calvin Ilkay how can you say you need more volume than 3x3 if volume consists of the weight lifted as well. you're missing half the formula but making conclusions already
@@incorectulpolitic that is not overtraining tho my guy
Cyclist who blew out his knee, went to physical therapy and was recommended deadlifts and here I am, weak but getting there.
Sorry to hear you got injured, but the fact that you're here at all, says it all. You alone have decided not to give up, unlike so many others who already have. Consider this: when you think of giving up, someone else is still going. Don't fear failure, fear being in the place or situation this time, next year. Good luck. Stay strong.
Hello fellow cyclist. Hip stability is so important on the bike for knee issues. Highly recommend a bike fit if you haven't had one already, some physio's offer it, but a good accredited bike fitter works as well, if not better. Cheers.
kneesovertoesguy here on youtube has alot of knee and mobility advice, you should check him out if you havent already
kneesovertoesguy has interessting exercices ideas for knee recovery and strengthening .
General strength training here. I’m the cliched “I just want to stay in shape so my kids can’t beat me in a wrestling match” guy.
B-but Alan, my legs need a full week to recover before I can hit them again, it's what my bro split dictates!
I hit legs at lest 2-3 times a week twice a day sometimes
I did squats for five consecutive days last week, with various intensities, and they felt amazing. I was actually surprised but I'm afraid I won't be able to keep up
@@Uolverino7036 clarence kennedy squats every day, and work for him.
Me who does bulgarian lite and hits legs every other day 0_o
@@manuelnaim9206 I belive that, i learned that our body adapts to every environment you put it into, 7 years ago when i started competing in judo and coach told me to start going to the gym in the morning and have practice on the evening i thought ill die, after few months my body adapted. We are not made of steel, but we arent made of glass either!
Hi Alan. I'm a 71 year old retired software engineer happy to get back in the gym after all this COVID-19 happiness. My goal is to get in shape to take on more challenging terrain on my dirt bike. Thanks for the videos!
-Bill
I'm a metalhead who lifts weights. That's why I'm here.
I won't lie. I under train.
I'm a methhead that lifts weights. I'm always training! Like, flat out. All the time!! No fucking time for recovery, i say!!
🤟metal lifting
I had to look twice. I thought that said meathead!!🤣🤣🤣
Hell yeah metal is scientifically proven to make you 666 times stronger
I would consider myself a caffeine addict who needs a productive energy outlet.
Couldn't have said it better myself.
Exactly
Yes.
Me too
I identify with this way too much
Hey man, not sure if you ever go through these comments. Just want to say thank you. Got out of the Corps in 2015 and really struggled with PTSD and depression and really did not take care of myself. I found your and Brian's videos and they really inspired me to get back to the gym and take care of myself more. Keep up the hard work man, thanks for helping me to get out.
How are you doing today?
Thank you for your service and I hope health and fitness is helping!
thank you for your service sir
I watch Alan because he's a no bullshit to the point type of guy. I lift weights, I vary between strength work and bodybuilding but I reccomend Alan's channel to every one I possibly can lol.
I second this comment.
Same dude
Amen brother
@Pasta Fazoul He used to have some silly content, but I think he's grown.
Alan is one of the few guys who's actually grown and learned and updated his message accordingly over the years, and he's careful not to dish out advise as gospel because he knows there's a lot we don't know and different equally valid ways to achieve the same goals. That is a sign of a man that is both smart and humble.
Most of these fitness youtubers act like they know it all from day one and never change their minds about anything, which inevitably ends up with them mostly saying bro science bullshit.
I refer to myself as someone that would annoy the staff at a Planet Fitness.
Yeah......same.
Hahaha lunk alarm
None of us like enforcing the link alarm but yah it's not a gym for heavy lifting. Its just for supporting healthy activity levels. That's why I joined a strongman gym even though I work at a planet fitness
I’m a high school football player / wrestling that weight trains a lot . You taught me how to deadlift and squat a million times better than any of my coaches or trainers have been able to and go back to your videos all the time to freshen up and form tips etc . Thank you
Not even gonna lie what helps me "recover" from being a "powerlifter" is moving more when I am sore. In my opinion, if I don't do anything when I'm sore I hurt longer than if I'm constantly moving.
Ain’t that the truth though.
Yes brothee
More blood flow = faster healing
facts.
The literally worst thing for my recovery is not moving.
I’m a so-called “barbell enthusiast” 😁 Just training to stay healthy and active. I first found your channel when I was recovering from a minor back tweak and looking to improve my squat and deadlift form. I really enjoyed your videos and have been a fan every since!
I have a gym in my garage so I’m just that guy that makes loud noises in the garage with music blasting
Ahh we must be brothers!
I'm jealous. I don't have space for equipment, so I have a gym membership.
goals
I’m a weak strength trainer because I’m even worse as a bodybuilder.
relatable af
Hey! That's my line!
Maybe you’re just a real human. Like me. I’m never going to squat big numbers.
I am sexually attracted to the barbell and the sound of iron plates sloshing around at the top of a squat
I am sexually attracted to the sound bumper plates make when you are loading them
I am sexually attracted to Solaire of Astora and to praising the sun.
Praise the sun!
@@soulreaper1461 Barbell enthusiast and dark souls fan?!Where have you been???
@@almosthollow2070 well I thought that was pretty much the norm. They blend like barbecue and beer. So most people don't workout to be ripped like Blacksmith Andre?
I'm just an overweight average joe trying to reclaim my health and my body image. Your channel and many others have been very informative.
How's it going?
I'm an overall fitness enthusiast. I like to lift weights, to carry stuff, to run, to cycle and to swim. Sometimes focusing on one thing, other times on another. Just enjoying the process
Same man. I also do martial arts. Im starting to think that my natural progression is leading me to do an Ironman.
@@volcom05345 damn. That's a very good goal. I've thought about it but first on the list are trail runs
Straight up!
Used to call myself a “weightlifter” as I assumed that it meant I just lifted weights, quickly found out that’s not what that means
It is what means tho
@@mustang8206 weightlifting in the competitive lifting world means you specialize in the snatch and clean&jerk.
@@mustang8206 weightlifting means the Olympic lifts
but many people that don’t exercise would refer to a bodybuilder as a weight lifter. I think unless you’re aware of the difference between powerlifting, oly weight lifting and bodybuilding ect then you’re none the wiser. Even a lot of gym casuals don’t even know how to define Olympic weightlifting. So I’d say it’s safe to call yourself a weightlifter.
@@richardevans8908 As far as I can tell, people who don't train call everything bodybuilding 😂
I’m 48, have been lifting since 18 and never call myself anything (out loud), not even a weightlifter. I do it out of a lifelong passion for the feel of the weight. Also, I love the philosophy of your channel even more than the great advice. Thanks!
I love the way you described resistance training. We all stuff for some reason, but the reason we stay tends to evolve
I just lift to be a healthy and strong old man some day
Saving a seat for you, bro
Same
Same bro
same waiting for elite athletes to wear out and retire so that I can be strong at age 50 and set some world records
I prefer iron enthusiast, sounds way cooler, as in ironing a shirt.
I’m a skinny ER nurse who just lifts to help my mental health. Great inspirational video! Been watching for years, keep it up!
“They are sitting on the couch too much”
I feel personally attacked.
*literally sitting on my big and tall camping chair as I watch this*
I felt attacked as well, but i wasnt on the couch, i was eating enchiladas at the table.
My interests and goals lie mostly in hypertrophy and bodybuilding. I love the channel because of the powerlifting advice, general life advice and because of the metal.
Punker, metalhead, circuit trainer, and humour enthusiast. That’s why I come to this channel
I started out as a "Powerlifter" for a few years, your channel being amongst the first sources of information and inspiration by the way! Then after a few years of VERY dedicated training for powerlifting, I kinda lost interest in training that way and started doing a lot more hiking/outdoor related activities. However I started to really miss Barbell training, now after a few years I've found balance between these things and I found out I'm an outdoor, gaming and Barbell enthusiast. That's it. No Bodybuilder, no Powerlifter. But I like to lift things and do things. Very much appreciate your style of making videos. Thanks man.
I am a dude, trying to look like a dude who knows what kind of dude he is. I lift so I can carry all the groceries in at once and impress my wife’s boyfriend.
🤣😂🤣😂🤣
Impressed?😂😂😂
same.
Best. Comment. Ever.
- the wife's boyfriend
I'm a rock climber who recently decided to take strength training more seriously. I started training with barbells a few times a week and I've already seen some significant improvement. Your vids have helped a lot!
I think a big problem is people just have shit programming 😂
bingo
on god
@@youtubeuser3316 k
I think Alan is right in that most people at the gym just aren't training very hard, and will never run into overtraining problems. However, there are people that are overtraining and thus not making optimum gains or getting injured because they're not recovering enough.
I suppose programming is paramount to new lifters and competitive alike, one to keep their head on straight and the other to optimize every lift. But myself as a more casual enthusiast in lifting, have had no issues just pushing myself with basic concepts like leg day, shoulder day etc. usually hitting every muscle group at least twice a weak working 6 days a week with 1 rest as usual routine. Squatting 385lb 1 rep max, bench 250, and deadlift 425, at 185lbs myself. Got there through sheer will and hard work in the gym. Following all kinds of guys like thrall, athlene-x, etc for tips and form control. But otherwise flying solo the whole way with no programming
I'm always worried that I'm either over or under training without realizing it! Probably because I was bombarded by videos about overtraining when I first started lifting. Now I just wing it and hope for the best 😂
I am a climber, who lifts weights to gain strength and avoid injuries.
Me too! Stopped lifting thinking I would get better at climbing but just got injured! So I'm back in the gym lol
@@shakeysugar4382 what lifts do you recommend for climbers?
@@kooljawss I think the most important are compound movements, particularly bench press and overhead press since climbers almost exclusively so pulling movements. But I also love squats and deadlifts, I just think they're great movements which train the whole body.
I'd recommend the channel "hooper's beta" for more specific things, he explains a lot of climbing specific gym exercises
@@kooljawss pull ups, a lot of grip work in different positions that focuses primarily on hanging. A little calf and leg work like squats and calf raises won't hurt just make sure to not get to strong at these sinds you'll carry to much unnecessary muscle. Dips are really handy for mantels and such. I'd also recommend doing some wrist, core, hamstring and rotator cuff work to prevent injury (ALSO MAKE SURE TO DO TIB RAISES). That's about it I think. Oh wait your commend is 3 years old... Well maybe someone else can use the advise.
I’m someone who is trying to move and break a sweat everyday while having fun. Since being out of the gym, I’ve enjoyed running, jump rope, and aiming to become a member of rep city!
Since getting married and having my first kid, my outlook on training has changed drastically. I don't have the time anymore to dedicate to training like I did before. I train now just to keep healthy, an hour weight training session at 6am 5 days a week, and an hour on the cross trainer at 8pm 7 days of the week. I'm probably in the best shape of my life, feel good, and eat more than I did before. Training in this manner, gives me more family time, and makes sure I'm healthy, rather than having this 'just want to be as big as possible' mindset I had before.
Christ so your baseline just trying to be healthy and strong is an hour of training 5 days a week and an hour of cardio every day of the week? That's 13 hours a week.
@@liammcclish4291 yep sure is. I used to do 2 and a hour weight training sessions pre marriage. Now I'll a quick weight session I'm the morning before everyone's up, and then I've purchased a Cross trainer for home so can literally do an hour anytime in the day when it's quiet. I'm also a lot more relaxed with my eating, so don't track calories anymore, I don't just eat crap everyday, but I keep things balanced allowing myself to enjoy the food I like. I'm probably in the best shape of my life right now, and training and diet is just easy, whereas in the past it was so taxing when having to always log my calories and always logging my gym sessions.
@@MRSNYPA786 That sounds awesome man!
Rock climber, runner, general outdoorsman. I enjoy lifting weights and feeling strong enough to help my patients safely move (I am a hospital-based occupational therapist). Your channel is one of the best!
You’re correct Alan when I’ve taken so called rest days when I’ve come back I don’t feel any fresher and raring to go in fact the opposite.It’s all in the mind if you think you’re overtraining you will not work out to your max. Saying you’re overtraining is a excuse to take a break you’re weak. As they say no pain no gain. Get in the gym and no more bs.
“What are you going to do, not train?” - Jordan Feigenbaum
I’m a rugby player from Australia and I always watch your videos because you always have good insights and tips on strength training which works well with my programs. Not only that but it’s refreshing to see you use your experience for information rather than follow fitness trends.
I’m a strongman fan but don’t compete - just lift at home to hit my personal strength goals, keep in shape and help my mental health!
Listen, if you're in doubt, just approach overtraining and recovery like Louie Simmons does, with high volume low weight workout. Use bands, dumbbells, take a nice long walk. High volume low weight workouts will increase your blood flow, hence increasing tissue repair. Vary the load, have a speed day with lighter weights, focus on high force production. You will never recover if you do not increase your work capacity.
To add to that, if you sit around and do nothing it will take you longer to recover than if you did something
Tennis player here. Probably the only one but Im genuinely entertained by your videos! Keep it up man
I actually run trails, but I was lacking in strength, so I came here.
Caleb - Alan is truly a well of knowledge- You def came to the right place! . #TrainUntamed
It’s the same old conversation, justifying which leg is most important on a 3 legged table.
"Is this a bad day, bad week, or reoccuring theme"... gold right there. That makes all the difference.
Also I've been a trainer for like 5-6 years now and am not really a powerlifter or bodybuilder. Just wanna be bic and stronk, but lately, also be able to run far and fast. And jump high.
Do all the things basically.
I watch your content because you provide a good perspective on the strength training side of things - just one of many people I source ideas from.
I've always thought of recovery as "Have I had a good, full nights rest". I'm only a year or two into lifting but my mindset has always been about the quality and amount of sleep I've had in between work outs. This may not be correct but its what's felt right for me.
Im a former fat guy who fell in love with lifting heavy and knowing that i can do things now that i couldn't and i will be able to do even more in the future. I dont compete so i wouldnt call myself a powerlifter or strongman but theyd be kinda close to my training style.
What’s heavy?
Alan you are a true beauty! In a time where saying anything remotely controversial will inevitably cause people to go off the deep end about how wrong you are, you stick to your principals and say it like it is. I know this might be different, but when I was younger I started biking with my brother in-law and his friends. They were much more fit, and had better bikes. I hated it at first because I just 'couldn't' (in my mind) keep up. Riding with them taught me to just keep a positive attitude (which is incredibly important), and push harder. I learned that the reason I couldn't keep up was that I allowed defeat to enter my mind, and when I was tired I gave up too easily. Something happens when you decide to go just a bit harder when your lazy thoughts are screaming 'stop I'm tired'. The human body is much more capable than most people believe. I gave up lifting for nearly 20 years because of bad shoulders and lower back pain. In the end my posture, muscle imbalance and lifting habits were causing my back pain, and my shoulders although they are bad, got better with exercise. Obviously there are limits here but you are bang on, doing nothing is the worst thing to do. I am trying to pass this type of advice to my kids and other young people. We need to build this next generation up, because the rest of the world seems to be teaching them that they don't have to work hard, and that they should avoid anything that is stressful or 'hard'.
Thanks a million!
I don't compete in anything, I just wanna be strong and reasonably fast with running. I've totaled my body from anorexia and having numbers to focus on other than calories and building a good relationship with food and my body makes it so much easier to keep eating.
Lean towards “powerlifting” because a lot of how I train and what I train is power lifting esc, but in the grand scheme, I’m just lifting weights not competing or prepping to compete
I use physical exercise for my mental health. I have depression and the only thing that consistently helps alleviate my symptoms is exercise. I do strength and flexibility training and while I train both simultaneously, I alternate goals; for months I focus on getting stronger while my flexibility training is part of my active recovery and then for some months I'll focus on my flexibility training while using strength training as a supplement and to maintain strength. I have found that you have to listen to your body but also use your mind to push yourself to progress. I've been watching your videos for years and I'm really liking you're new mind set. I feel that this aligns more with how I like to do things. Movement is what matters, find what moves you. Thanks for the great content Alan!
Typo corrections:
Your new mind set*
I’m a rock climber that just likes squatting and deadlifting
Here here!
Just curious, what grip do you use for your pulls? Does that have any impedance on rock climbing or vice versa?
@@jacobtworks I use hook grip for pulls! I think there is actually a fair amount of carryover from climbing that benefits hook grip. Climbing is painful on the hands, so the “pain” from hook grip is easily overlooked.
Further, the “half crimp” grip for climbing is basically hook grip just on a ledge and not around a bar
Same
@@paulantosy-ott3191 Interesting...I use hook grip too, and Ive felt its made my grip strength a weak point.
“Huh that seems really low for a yoke”
*starts squatting it*
Hey Alan, thanks for this video. I'm new to powerlifting (just under 1.5 years). I was lying in bed this morning thinking about how "over trained" I've felt the last two days. The barbell just hasn't been moving and I decided to take today as an extra recovery day.
That probably would have been an OK answer too, but this video made me reflect enough to find some ways to approach my workout today with some balance. I didn't hit some amazing PR, and things still didn't feel back to 100%, but I got to the gym and I picked up some heavy things. It felt better than the last few days. Just wanted to let you know that your content matters and it helps me. Love your videos, keep it up!
Rippetoe said it well: that as you progress in strength, the margin for error for you to overshoot your capacity to adapt (recover) becomes slimmer and slimmer. A total novice has to try really hard, to not recover from workouts. It's also human nature to extend a break beyond the minum necessary.
Can you explain this more?
@@blackbacon4146 well, a beginner has a lot of adaptation potential available, very little stress causes growth, while overshooting (doing too much work) is not very hard since weights involved are light, and so recovery is easier. More advance lifters get involved with heavy, highly stressful lifts, so if you go over the top, it can wreck you by a greater margin, requiring more/better rest. Similarly if you are advanced and lift too light, your body won't respond because of insufficient stress. It's about our ability to recover, the heavier the weights get, the harder it is to do so in a short space of time.
Also, discipline is severe. Extended training blocks of 8,12,16 weeks will leave you drained of all willpower. It may take you a couple of weeks for the body to be ready for another round but our minds may need a little more down time. Willpower is being trained at the same time as our bodies.
@@siddislikesgoogle Good stuff! I understand now. Thank you :)
Not a competitor or enthusiast, just having my life saved by weights.
I’m 55 years old barbell enthusiast I’ve lifted weights off and on since I was in high school I’m a full time firefighter/ emt , I just got diagnosed with prostrate cancer 11/10/21 my prognosis is good so far ,I’m lifting again after a long layoff due to a shoulder injury keep the great weight lifting videos going I get a lot inspiration and motivation from watching!
I think a lot of people aren’t overstrained, their under stimulated. Took me a while to realize that I’m just different and squatting for a lot of volume just helps
Ex barbell enthusiast, covid-induced runner here. Can certainly relate: some of my fastest runs were on the days when I felt the slowest.
True, perceptions are very subjective, while you "feel" tired or whatever on the other hand muscles and mechanics do respond.
So true. Similar thought bubble: my best lifts almost always come when I still feel a little sore ie I'm well trained
Yep, best days exercising started feeling horrible. Perspective changes very quickly based on expectations feelings, and overall general mood.
I am a hobby kickboxer and "barbell enthusiast" from Germany. I just like going to the gym and like to see a different "type" of lifting! and you are a great guy and fun to watch:)
“I’m not a strongman, power lifter, or barbell enthusiast! I’m a CrossFit-“
*Deus Vult noises*
General training person here; just doing weights and running for activity.
Never put a label on what I do but I train more for size and strength, but more bodybuilding rather than powerlifting or strongman. Here as I'm trying to educate and better myself around weightlifting and appreciate your no nonsense approach to lifting. Watching from a far in the north east of Scotland
I just love being in the gym. I watch videos from all forms of weightlifting just to get views and opinions from all angles.
Check out Eric bugenhagen if you haven't already
Im a bodybuilder style lifter. Ps, love all the Queens of the Stone Age songs in the background, my favorite band!
Because you asked... I'm a 56 year old ultra endurance mountain bike racer. In the past three years I've learned and benefited from structured strength training during my relatively short off-season and am just now in my second year of tapering that into strength maintenance as my season gets underway. I found my way to you and your channel after following a lot of the Starting Strength material. I really appreciate your personal approach and recognition that we all come to strength training with different objectives. Thanks a ton!
just a novice 21 year old, dreaming of powerlifting. started my gym life 7months ago. now weighing 127lbs, Deadlifting 300lbs 1rm, squatting 200lbs for 3s, and benching 133 for 3s as well. i really hope im doing well, never had anyone critique my progress yet and i really hope im doing well for my pace!
edit: im a manlet too @ 5'6 🤣
I’m 5’2”.
Don’t call yourself a manlet, brother. You’re as much a man as most, if not likely more.
@@blackbacon4146 thank you brother 💚
How do you bench 133? Every barbell and plates I've ever seen have been divisible by 5.
@@jd9119 idk why but i considered the olympic bar 45lbs 😂 now i know its just 44
2:58 - The irony is this song is literally about Phil's back injuries.
A man of culture i see
Thank you, your vids are insping and educational, 65 years old, first time in a gym(P..F..) 5 months ago, just be safe, pride @ the door, currently powerlifting training with an Olympic WL club that has produced Internat and Olympic competitors, from the start I've been training 5/6 days a week, sometimes twice a day. You've compelled me to compete in USAPL Masters 65/69 division 63kg weight class, signed for my 1st meet in Aug.
"The average american..." dude your audience is all around the world! I'm from north africa! And QOTSA rocks!!
he can probably see the viewer statistics and most are probably from usa. ofc he knows its international because its youtube afterall
Same
A stay home mom here 🙋🏼♀️ who likes to lift weights and learn about musclesssss 💪🏻 Just for fun
😍
Happily married? 😉
You and Brian Alsruhe are my go-to when I need good info about strength training and strongman stuff.
I do road bike, capoeira, calisthenics and I'm a strength barbell enthusiast.
Greetings from 🇨🇵🙏🏾
Bonus points for the Pantera "I'm broken" clip
I’m a jiu jitsu competitor who is interested in being stronger and more athletic.
you like sniffing jockstraps yea Paul?
Same. Strength helps with everything for an upper body standpoint. I'm a dummy when it comes to leg/ankle locks. No amount of strength seems to help me there lol
Hello brother, i'm a filthy blue belt.
@@sr.angrygatito6697 that’s disgusting. I am one too
@@masterroshi4151 I think it’s general right, attacking the ankle/heal is such a weak area of the body. I feel your best bet is being strong and athletic to keep your base and not get swept where they can attack. If you do get swept it’s all techical to escape as you know.
Been rock climbing for many years as my primary sport now, where good training information was seriously lacking till like 2 years ago, so following channels like yours helped me pick up the training info I needed. Thanks again!
I'm not overtrained I'm just under hormoned
I love Alan's view on training. Simple and concise, just train.
Breakdancer and barbell enthusiast checking in. Great videos Alan!
“You’re sitting on the couch too much” i hear as I sit on the couch avoiding cardio
As I sit on the toilet without a dumbbell to curl.
hey what are your pronouns? wanted to know.
Wish my gym would blast half of QOTSA's discography as well haha
I am a barbell enthusiast and i appreciate your high quality content aswell as your clear and entertaining way of presentation. I can say that your Videos changed my life as an athlete. Hopefully i will visit your Gym one day and have a good training session. Greetings from Germany.
I'm just addicted to strength and conditioning.
I like that.
Addicted to exercise :)
"Never listen to those who couldn't, tell you, you can't."-RL
Per your request, I strength train utilizing progressive resistance. Thank you for acknowledging the stresses of life being REAL factors in our training sessions. Some days it seems like no matter how great we feel physically ready and motivated to hit the iron, once we get to it, our minds begin to wonder in the direction of current and/or pending issues. Be it personal or work related, it can really be a session killer. Getting past it can literally make the difference between having a great session or having a mediocre, "just get it done" type session. Appreciative of your sharing of knowledge. Thank you for serving. Semper Fi.
🇺🇲
I dig “Barbell Enthusiasts”. I train for fun, but also to keep me safe at work (imma nurse)
I do literally every sport that I can and I don’t identify as anything. I’m just an athlete.
Best thing to do.
That's the way to have the most fun
Wjo gives a shit
@@shaun4. Alan. Since he asked. Now go be mean somewhere else
I'm a martial artist that uses elements of powerlifting to get stronger. I watch this channel for that but mostly for you because you are entertaining and have a good story as an entrepreneur and good training philosophies. There's a lot more to learn from you than how to move a bar.
LET UM KNOW ALAN! I ranted on this just a few weeks ago on IG
Nobody cares about you and your IG :)
I bet people wish I had your name.
@@zhivkopetrov7118 not sure that was the point of the comment
@Zhivko Petrov:I'm sorry, who are you?? lol
I built my own gym a few years ago "pre covid" due to NOT wanting to be the 25%.. im not strong or overly fit, but i am active and getting better daily :D
🤘🏼
Kickboxer here. This channel consistently helped with my power output and general strength, so thanks.
I’m just hear to train. CrossFit, powerlifting, strongman, running, swimming, sports, yoga, hiking, whatever. I just want to move and improve.