Building a Power Frame

Back before there were pretty machines, extra pulleys and well greased Smith machines, there were power pads and squat racks.  I was taught how to lift weights in dark dungeons with sawdust on the floor.  My first lifting coach only let me start with three movements: Squat, Power Clean and Bench Press.

At the time all I wanted was to lift to get stronger.  I had no idea that my coach's plan was to provide me with a powerful frame. To this day I thank his plan and include a heavy amount of Olympic and Olympic training movements.  It makes for a much more athletic build and and aesthetically pleasing symmetry.

All of my early Bodybuilding idols began or had a strong history of using power movements.  These exercises helped me at sports on every level.  They have also kept me younger looking and more active then 95% of the men my age.  I pride myself in my ability to create new and challenging workouts and even exercises, but I always come back to basic power movements.  I promise they will make future muscle growth much easier once you have a stronger base to build upon.

-Alex