Every lift we perform in barbell training is characterised by three distinct phases: a beginning, an end, and a middle part in which the actual movement takes place. If we look at the squat, it is difficult to pick a phase we could deem more important than others. Fail to get tight at the start, and the rest of the movement will suffer. Fail to follow through, and you might miss the rep. There is, however, a point in the squat which to a large degree predicts how strong you a

The bench press has a long-standing tradition of being the number one lift for strengthening the upper body. Far from it serving the purpose of a 'masculine' exercise for an ego-measuring contest, the bench press offers much more in return than the superficial view that is commonly held on it: stronger muscles in your arms; greater bone density in your humerus, forearms, and wrists; more muscle mass in your shoulders, triceps, and pecs; and greater mental resilience. It takes

If you have been lifting for several years, and you feel like the honeymoon period of your training is officially over, this article will find you well. I want you to stick to barbell training until the last day of your life. I really do. No further convincing on its effectiveness is required on my side. Neither is it on yours, I believe. Instead of looking at barbell training as a tissue for blowing your nose ('do the job - get rid'), I would like to point out three crucial