*Today’s post inspired by my cousin Jared, sender of the picture above and fellow Chuck Norris disciple.
•Chuck Norris destroyed the periodic table, because he only recognizes the element of surprise.
I’m not a big fan of workout machines. Strive Performance-style training focuses on multi-joint/multi-plane complex movements that use bodyweight, kettlebells, barbells, dumbbells, sandbags, medicine balls, rocks, or any other thing laying around you can use. Toys and tools in the weightroom or at home are optional. When it comes to training, my advice is “Don’t limit yourself and use your imagination.”
I usually approach contraptions with skepticism. When it comes to the Total Gym, my first experience with one of these was more than 10 years ago, long before Chuck and Christi began promoting them on the beach inviting “unsuspecting beach goers” to try it out on their “info-commercial.” I got to try it out in our training room and it was used primarily for stretching and rehab. After trying out dips and rows at the various levels, I was sold.
For full disclosure I don’t own one or plan to, but I do think it’s a quality piece of equipment. If you have access to one, give it a go- it allows for a much greater range than most machines. Most machines operate in a confined singular plane. The cable and pulley set up of the Total Gym offers multi- plane movement and challenges stabilization through a full range of motion. Another bonus for the Total Gym is that it’s efficient compact design offers a wide range of resistance because of it’s use of bodyweight.
Strive Performance gives the Total Gym 4 Lone stars **** because round house kicks don’t taste good.