Michael Davis DPT

REDEMPTION

In my last post, I spoke about my recent trip to the RKC in Philly and my disappointment in my performance there. It had been over a year since I had placed my hands on a "Beast" (a 48kg/106lb kettlebell), but that isn't a valid excuse. Anyway, while in PA I purchased a "Beast" and planned a redemption performance.

This performance had to be more than just a regular Beast Tamer performance, so I put together what I call "The Beast Tamer Medley". I discribed the breakdown in my last post and you will see it in the video below. I am often asked "Why do you workout the way that you do?" or something like "Aren't you afraid that the weight will be too much?".

I do what I do because God has blessed me with the ability to do so. Recently my motivation has gotten a boost from another source. My dad was diagnosed with cancer not too long ago. I see and hear the strength within him as he awakens each day to fight a good fight. No matter what display of strength and/or courage that I may exhibit in a workout, challenge, etc, it will always fail in comparison to the strength and courage that I see in my dad as he fights his good fight daily with Godspeed. And because of that, each of my workouts, challenges, or whatever will continue to be fueled by the strength and wisdom bestowed upon me by my Lord and in honor of my earthly father as we will fight the good fight together.

Respect & Honor

Disappointment

Yesterday, a friend of mine and I drove up to Downingtown, PA to check out the first RKC certification on the east coast.  While there, I was asked to repeat the Beast Tamer Challenge that I performed back in August of 2008.  Ofcourse I couldn't turn this opportunity down.  This was the first time that I had seen a "Beast" since I tamed it in 2008. 

Not thinking, I got caught up and made a mistake.  I attempted all three lifts cold.  The tactical pull-up and the strict press went "ok", but the pistol was horrid.  I had to hop around like a d*mn kangaroo to keep my balance.  UNACCEPTABLE!!!  UNACCEPTABLE!!! I'm a strong advocate efficient movement via movement prep, so if anyone knows better, it is me!  We all must be reminded of some things sometimes and this was my time.  I was so disappointed in myself that I have already planned a "redemptive" performance to be videod within the next two weeks. 

The goal:

1 Tactical Pull-up

1 Clean and strict press right

Transfer with a swing

1 Clean and strict press left

Grab the KB by the horns (w/o placing it down)

1 Pistol right

1 Pistol left

Stay tuned..........................

Respect & Honor!

Just To Let You Know He Is Human

Many of you that have seen the videos of Damien Walters are amazed by his ability.  Indeed, he is gifted.  One of the first few questions I seem to get, concerning Damien Walters, is "does he ever miss?". 

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, he is human.  But make no mistake about it, this guy pushes himself in a manner that is inconceivable to most.  His videos are the result of years of dedication.  He puts in the work necessary to push his body to these limits.

Below are some more videos of Damien Walters.  Some of which display his human element.

Respect & Honor!

Do You Know How To Breathe?

Do you know how to breathe?  While this may seem like an odd question, I can assure you that most of the people reading this are not breathing in an efficient and healthy manner.  Check out this article about sport, exercise, and stress induced breathing problems.  May it increase your awareness to assist you in your quest for improved health and function.  If you have the time, take the breathing test.

Respect & Honor! 

New Five Fingers On The Way

Those who know me, know of my fascination with foot/ankle function.  I've been wearing Vibram Five Fingers for approximately 2 years now.  While I'll be the first to say that VFFs are not for everyone, I can't say enough good things about them.  I prefer them to "normal" footwear, as they allow my foot/ankle complex to do what they were intended to do.  Below is a video of the new VFF KSO Treks.  I can't wait to get a pair of these.

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Sig Klein Rewind

This is a video that Darius Gilbert R.K.C., of Dynamic Solutions, and I shot this past Spring of us performing a Sig Klein Challenge with KBs. This video is also in the Workout/Challenge section of this blog along with the parameters/discription of the Sig Klein Challange.  I'm working on a new article about the foot/ankle complex, so stay tuned to check it out.  Enjoy the rewind.

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The Importance Of Isolation

With the current trend of functional training is full force, isolation training often gets a bad wrap.  It's important for us to remember that mosts things have their place and understanding when and how to use them only enables us become better clinicians, exercise physiologists, strength coaches, athletes, etc. 

Take a second to read this article "The Importance of Isolation".

 

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Are You Bullet-Proof?

I pray that this blog entry finds you all in good health, of sound mind, and of strong spirit! 

Check out this article, "The Essence of Bulletproofing", and let me know your thoughts.

 

Respect & Honor 

A Must See!!!!!!!!

Below are two videos of a guy named Damien Walters.  It's a true testament to the capacity of the human body.  Enjoy!

Respect & Honor!

Kettlebell 101

This is an article that I wrote some time ago about some things to consider before implementing kettlebell training into your or your clients program. Check it out and give me your thoughts.

 

Download Kettlebell 101

 

Respect & Honor!