I sometimes wonder if there are any prerequisites at all to getting a job as college strength and conditioning coach.

I don't care what gym you train at there's always that one question that, essentially, is used as a measuring stick of your masculinity; “How much do you bench?”

I learned more about training during my preparation for this meet than I have any other one in the past. This is because it was one of the worst training cycles I have ever had. We will start with the meet and work backwards.

This article is intended to provide insight for the individual who is just starting out in powerlifting.

There are two variations to this structure. For the sake of time and space, I will only discuss one at this time. The second variation is a bit more complicated and is recommended for an experienced lifter only.

My intent with this article is to give you a sort of inside look at what I was thinking going into and during the meet.

When I first started training using the Westside methods, I would often end my max effort exercise and feel like I didn’t do anything.

Today many lifters talk about box squatting. Opinions vary alot. Some still state that using a box is a trick which has no effect to contest maxes at all.

One of the most asked questions throughout the day was “What would you have done differently, if you knew what you know now?” And though I answered the question as best I could, I couldn’t help but rethink the question over and over.

Sample Westside Barbell Workout by Bob Youngs when he was training at the gym.