Owing to the inquisitive nature of a PCS reader, I've finally gotten my act together, or at least come close enough to some semblance of normality, to go down the rabbit hole once again. The topic of todays post, is the rather more niche but nevertheless effective Glute Ham Raise (GHR) machine. Having spent years... Continue Reading →
Vince Gironda, ‘Biceps: A Six-Week Bulk Course’, Vince Gironda Six Week Bulk Course (c.1968), 3-4
This program's purpose is designed to produce quick size by working non-specifically (four different aspects of each muscle) – in other words, it is not a shaping course. Now, the muscle to receive the most work is the muscle you start with. I always start with the arms. So, this is how I will set... Continue Reading →
Why I Wanted to Visit a Dead Man’s Grave
For reasons that I will happily discuss later, I was recently in London with my family and had a to-do list of physical culture-related materials that I wanted to check out. First, there would be a meal at the German Gymnasium. This was one of the first public gymnasiums to open in nineteenth-century London and... Continue Reading →
D. Haddleton, ‘It takes guts to chisel out the Abdominals’, Health and Strength (1964)
Written by D. Haddleton, of Sydney, Australia in Health and Strength Magazine, in November 1964, the following article presents an 'old school' method of training the abs. It features several exercises long forgotten by the modern weightlifter, making it both an invaluable piece of Iron Game history and valuable training aid. Really want to kick-start some ab development?... Continue Reading →
Guest Post: All You Need to Know about the History of Health Promotion
Health promotion, the process of enabling individuals and communities to take control of their health and well-being, has a rich history that spans centuries. From early preventive measures to modern public health campaigns, the evolution of health promotion reflects changing societal attitudes, advancements in medical knowledge, and the recognition of the importance of holistic well-being.... Continue Reading →
Charles Gaines, ‘Cutting Some Fancy Figures, Sports Illustrated, 10 July (1972).
Outside the auditorium, or Pavilion, as it's called, it is a gorgeous Sunday afternoon at the Mountain Park amusement center in Holyoke, Mass. A roller coaster clatters up and down a wooden trestle. Children fly around in little whirly things that look like boats with wings. There are clam bars, pizza stands, dart throws, cotton-candy... Continue Reading →
Joe Weider’s Advanced Split Routine
It’s been a while since I posted an old-school workout on this website. This was unintentional and driven, largely, by my own interest in stories as opposed to sets. Nevertheless it is good to return to the well every know and then and where better to go than the Trainer of Champions himself, Joe Weider.... Continue Reading →
What Are the Most Common Lies in Fitness?
I should be untruthful did I follow the example of certain strong men who have made it their business to say they are weakly invalids at the commencement of their training, but, by the secret method, made themselves into strong men … Arthur Saxon, The Development of Physical Power (London, 1905), 3. I'm hurt, I'm... Continue Reading →
Guest Post: Tracing the Evolution of Electronic Muscle Stimulators
Electronic Muscle Stimulators (EMS) have emerged as a revolutionary technology in the field of health and fitness. These devices use electrical impulses to stimulate muscles, providing a wide range of benefits, from medical rehabilitation to enhancing athletic performance. This article delves into the history, science, applications, and future prospects of muscle stimulators, highlighting their impact... Continue Reading →
Guest Post: The History and Evolution of Public Gyms
The fitness industry has experienced significant growth and transformation over the years, with public gyms playing a central role in promoting physical fitness and well-being. From humble beginnings to the sprawling fitness centers we see today, the evolution of the public gym reflects changing societal attitudes towards health, exercise, and personal fitness goals. If you... Continue Reading →