Michael H. Brown, ‘Developing an Iron Claw’ (1974)
Many years ago, before most of today’s weight trainees were even a gleam in their daddy’s eye, a fellow named John Y. Smith used to specialize in the one-handed deadlift.
Deadlifting Cheese at the World’s Strongest Man (1983)
I have, I believe, been fairly open about my love of the World’s Strongest Man, specifically the opening decade of the competition. Whereas today’s competition is professional, modern and scientific,
Guest Post: All-in-one History of Protein Shakes
If you thought bodybuilding and serious involvement in sport is mere exercising and pushing your body to its limits, think again. Of course, building up your muscle mass is crucial.
The Pat Casey Workout (1963)
I am constantly fascinated with learning how strongmen and women trained. For me, one of the most interesting things about the history of fitness is learning how and why people
Arnold the Gym Spokesman
Arnold Schwarzenegger has worked a lot of jobs. Few people can class bodybuilder, promoter, governor, actor, and author on their resumes. Arnold has worked so many jobs that it is
Reg Park, ‘How I Trained for 1958 Mr. Universe,’ Health & Strength
Reg Park was one of the mid-twentieth-century’s most impressive bodybuilders. He was large, strong and possessed a symmetry that few of his contemporaries could rival. What is even more impressive
Guest Post: Fitness Trivia: A Brief History of “Old School” Fitness Equipment
For a long time, but especially in the last 40-50 years, the fitness industry has been growing and moving away from its humble beginnings. What was once just a way
How Much Could Louis Cyr Eat?
I have spoken so much of Louis‘ great strength that now I must tell you of his great weakness – eating. His excuse for eating so much was that his
Guest Post: IIFYM Diet: History and Effects of “If It Fits Your Macros”
Unless you’re a seasoned bodybuilder, you’re probably not very familiar with the IIFYM diet. This diet was born out of necessity and a desire to eat tasty food that also
The B.A.W.L.A. Primary Physical Improvement Course c. 1948
This course of exercises is suitable for youths and men who are commencing weight-training and for boys of twelve years or over. The muscles are exercised through the full range