The alternating bent over kettlebell row is a full-body integrated pulling exercise that builds upper back strength, grip, and hinge stability simultaneously. Learn proper setup, rowing mechanics, and how the kettlebell’s offset load creates a uniquely effective training stimulus compared to dumbbells. Includes programming guidelines for sets, reps, and smart exercise pairing to get the most out of this movement.
Brandon Smitley of THIRST Gym recaps the 2025 year across YouTube, the THIRST More Podcast, Instagram, and online coaching, sharing real analytics, business challenges, and what is changing heading into 2026. From hitting YouTube monetization and growing to 6,000 subscribers to navigating a gym relocation due to eminent domain, this post covers the full story behind a year of growth and hard lessons for a working strength coach and small gym owner. If you are a strength athlete, powerlifter, wrestler, or coach looking for honest insights from someone in the trenches, this is the recap worth reading.
The Copenhagen side plank march builds adductor strength, lateral core stability, and hip flexor endurance in a single challenging movement. This progression of the standard Copenhagen plank adds a marching component that increases trunk stability demands while maintaining isometric loading through the top leg adductors. Learn proper setup, technique, and programming recommendations to effectively incorporate this exercise into your strength and conditioning routine.
The barbell floor press off a plyo box is a unique pressing variation that combines the range of motion restriction of a floor press with the full bench press mechanics — including leg drive — that traditional floor pressing eliminates. This exercise is ideal for powerlifters targeting bench press weak points, athletes managing shoulder discomfort, and lifters looking to build tricep lockout strength. Learn how to set it up, perform it correctly, and program it effectively for maximum carryover to your bench press.
Master the alternating forward lunge, a powerful quad-dominant exercise that builds lower body strength using just two dumbbells and minimal space. This dynamic dumbbell lunge variation targets your quadriceps while improving athletic performance through deceleration training, making it perfect for strength building, conditioning workouts, and sports-specific training. Learn proper forward lunge technique, discover when to avoid this knee-dominant exercise, and explore programming strategies to maximize your leg workout results.