QUESTION
Good Afternoon!
Quick question if you don't mind as it seems my Doc and physical therapist don't really be of much help – I understand you can't give me medical advice, I'm just a bit frustrated and am hoping this purchase will be helpful.
I'm a broadcast engineer in live sports and I seem to be wrecking my lower back more from standing for long periods (anywhere from 8 to 12 hours) than from my Goruck training (various types of training with a 65lb GR2 Ruck..including pushups…bear crawls…veerrry slow burpies and a "speed shuffle")
Seriously, working one event (standing for the above referenced hours) can put me out of commission for 3 days with back pain. BUT speed rucking (11 to 12 minute mile) for 8 to 10 miles I'll be tired but otherwise feeling great?
I should add that I have had two lower back surgeries (L4/L5).
I'm confused!
Any thoughts? Think this 8 week program will help me…or am I just insane thinking that at 45 years old that I'll be able to accomplish a Goruck Challenge?
Many Thanks and Have a Great Evening!
– G
ANSWER
Low backs can be a mystery. You're issue related to standing could be your shoes, the height of your camera, totally mental….. and I can't answer. If I could I'd be a bazillionaire.
If you can ruck and do bear crawls, etc, you should be able to do this plan. Try it and see if it helps.
But even if it doesn't – keep searching and working until you find something that does.
– Rob
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QUESTION
Rob,
I am wondering the best and fastest way to reach your strength standards would be. I am fit, fairly active, and motivated to obtain these strength standards. I would like to get there in the fastest time possible.
Also, are there any Mountain Athlete gyms or certified mountain athlete trainers anywhere but in Jackson? if so, where can I find a list of them? Do you have a recommended gym or trainer in the Seattle area? Thanks for your help!
– R
ANSWER
Strength Standards – these can take time to attain. – but a good place to start the journey is the Rat 6 Strength Plan: http://militaryathlete.com/page.php?page_ID=12&cart_category_ID=55&cart_ID=84
No coaches in Seattle. I'm sorry. But you don't need one – many guys work through our stuff on their own.
– Rob
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QUESTION
Hi Rob,
In prep for a Jackson Hole trip starting 2/2, I've been following your backcountry ski training programming. First, let me say the training is great and much tougher than I thought. Next, as I just completed the fifth week of programming, should I keep on with the final week for the period leading up to my trip or draw down my training in prep for a big ski week? If you recommend a drawdown period, I'd appreciate any guidance you could offer.
Thanks much,
–
ANSWER
You'll only need 2 days of total rest to be ready for your trip. Continue with the plan and stop accordingly.
– Rob
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QUESTION
Hi,
I would like to buy one of your plans and would like advice on which one to do. I am an endurance athelete and my goals are to loose 15# and get to a point where I can run a 5k at a 7min mile cofortably (something I was able to do prior to residency). I am a medical resident and have no more than 60 minutes to work out a day. I started working out 6 weeks ago doing crossfit. I have access to a basic gym in my hospital w/ free weights, a bench, a smith machine, and a treadmill. Do you have any recommendations?
Thanks,
– M
ANSWER
I don't have a perfect plan for you – esp. since you're mostly interested in improving your run time.
First – losing 15 pounds …. 80% of bodyweight is diet. Pls go to the FAQ on the site and follow our nutrition guidelines. Fix your diet and you'll lose weight. You can't out-work a shitty diet.
We don't have a plan just to increase a 5K time. One that might work for you comes from the military side of the work we do. The US Marine Phyiscal Fitness test includes a 3 mile run, as well as pull ups and crunches. This would be a great way for you to work on your running, and also get in some general fitness. Here's a link to the plan: http://militaryathlete.com/page.php?page_ID=12&cart_category_ID=51&cart_ID=31
– Rob Shaul
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QUESTION
Hi rob,
I was just looking over the programs offered on your website and decided to send you an email. I have finished your 8 week kettlebell program and just recently the kb strength program. I really enjoyed both and am having a hard time deciding what's next.
I was a division 1 softball player and I still play at a competitive level. I have a certification in crossfit, however, I prefer doing Olympic lifting with barbells, not the typical crossfit wod. I love training with kettlebells 🙂 anyway, just curious if or what you would recommend.
Big skies,
– T
ANSWER
Sounds a little like you just want some thing different –
From our stuff, a couple options:
1) 357 Strength – barbell focused, and great work. I know you'd enjoy it. http://militaryathlete.com/page.php?page_ID=12&cart_category_ID=55&cart_ID=69
2) Wildland Firefighter Pre-Season Training Plan: http://mountainathlete.com/page.php?page_ID=12&cart_category_ID=56&&cart_ID=60
Would give you a taste of sport-specific programming. It will test you.
– Rob Shaul
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