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Archive for the ‘Grip Sport’ Category

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Diesel Grip Task Force – Reach Your Goals FASTER!

Saturday, October 15th, 2022

I want to help YOU reach YOUR goals as fast as possible.

I am currently taking on 3 new Coaching Clients.

Grip Task Force – Monthly
Join-Today-button.jpg
Monthly Payments of $169

Grip Task Force – Quarterly
Join-Today-button.jpg
Quarterly Payments of $469

What does the Grip Task Force Entail?

1. Completion of Training/Health History Forms

I will send you forms which will need to be completed. These forms will cover various questions related to your training background and goals. This will help me get to know you and your training history. There are also some liability forms that must be completed.

2. Initial One-on-One Coaching Call

For 30 to 60 minutes, we will get on the phone or skype and discuss your forms and your goals. We will establish where you are at now in your development, where you want to go, the equipment you have to train with, the gym facilities you have access to, and other important information that will help us get going.

3. Weekly Programming Updates

Each week, I will send you a training plan based on your specific goals. I will email these plans to you and you will be expected to complete them after each workout. I must receive them completely filled out by the end of the training week so I can assess them and make adjustments to them for the following week.

Each program I design is individualized for each specific member in the Grip Task Force. To do one program for multiple individuals would be irresponsible. You are each different and will respond to different loads, volumes, rest, and other variables that we will monitor.

4. Bi-Weekly Coaching Calls

Every two weeks, we will get together again via telephone or skype to help move you forward with your training. During this time, I can answer questions that have come up, we can look and see what changes need to be made to your program, I can watch your technique on the more technical forms of Grip Training, such as Grippers, Two Hands Pinch, and Bending, and much more. These bi-weekly calls will be like attending a live Workshop with me, without having to miss the time from work or pay for travel costs.

5. Grip Task Force Facebook Group

I have a Facebook Group set up only for Grip Task Force members. Here you can ask questions of one another, as well as announce new PR’s and share videos of your success. That’s what it’s all about!

6. Complete Access to TheGripAuthority.com

In addition to the programming I send you, you will also get your own login credentials to my Grip Strength Coaching Site, TheGripAuthority.com. I started it in January of 2010, so it has 4+ years of content just sitting there, waiting for you to come and devour it.

7. Email and Text Access

In addition to the Coaching Calls every two weeks, you will also be able to ask me questions via email and text. I carry my phone with me everywhere, so you will be able to get a hold of me just about any time from 5:30AM to 9:00PM during the week and similar hours on the weekends.

The Main Idea is I Am Here to Help You Get Better

If you are not happy with the results you have gotten so far this year, then let’s work together to make some changes and get you going in the right direction again.

In just a matter of weeks, you could see the following:

  • Closing bigger grippers
  • One-hand Pinching bigger plate combinations
  • Bigger weights on Grip Sport Lifts (Axle, Two Hands Pinch, Sledge Choke)
  • Bending bigger steel and moving closer to that certification you are shooting for
  • Attaining big feats such as lifting the Blob and the Inch Replica Dumbbell
  • Performing better on all your other lifts because your grip is getting so much stronger!

Look, all of these things are well within your reach.

The problem is, there is something holding you back from reaching them.

In many cases, it is a simple TECHNIQUE FIX that makes all of the difference.

I have seen people increase a full gripper size increase in crushing strength by making technical adjustments alone. In other words, jumping from the COC #1 to the #2, and even from missing on a #2 to routinely closing the #2.5.

Most recently, Dave Depew, went from MISSING on the number 2 to SMASHING IT, just MINUTES after watching a technical video I shot for him.

Then he went on to the #3 gripper and got it down to just 1/4″. (He would have tried a #2.5, but he doesn’t own one!)

How much improvement CAN YOU MAKE in just a few minutes after watching a short technical video?

You’ll have to join the Grip Task Force to find out:

Grip Task Force – Monthly
Join-Today-button.jpg
Monthly Payments of $169

Grip Task Force – Quarterly
Join-Today-button.jpg
Quarterly Payments of $469

Nothing is more frustrating than when you know you are busting your butt in the gym, only to see very little in return.

If the problem has to do with VOLUME, we will be able to iron all that out through our weekly training updates and bi-weekly coaching calls.

Sometimes, lifters aren’t familiar with the established drills that have the biggest impact on the grip goals you have.

You may not realize how much you are not aware of – TOGETHER, we can change that.

You may have a weakness that is holding you back. Weak wrists are an INFAMOUS progress killer. Another common thing – your thumb may be so weak it is crumbling on you when you need it the most.

These are the kinds of things we can only sort out through direct one-on-one conversation, and that is what the Grip Task Force is all about.

Now’s the time to take control of your training.

Let’s make 2016 YOUR YEAR by working toward your Grip Strength Goals TOGETHER.

Join me today…

Grip Task Force – Monthly
Join-Today-button.jpg
Monthly Payments of $169

Grip Task Force – Quarterly
Join-Today-button.jpg
Quarterly Payments of $469

Expect an email back from me when you sign up…

Can’t wait to get started.

Jedd

Tags: feats of hand strength, feats of strength, grip sport, grip strength, grip training, grip workouts, grippers, hand strength
Posted in Grip Sport, grip strength, grip task force, hand strength, how to improve grip strength, improve grip strength crush | 40 Comments »

Two New Products – Grab Ball and Finnish Ball

Friday, October 7th, 2022

Performance Tips on the Grab Ball and Finnish Ball

Today, I’ve got 2 very quick and information-packed new products for you.

These two 10-minute videos cover the lifting technique I use for the Grab Ball and the Finnish Ball, both of which are implements in this year’s King Kong of Grip.

They also give lifters a lot of trouble.

I’m trying to fix that, today.

By sharing this information, I’m probably gonna be providing some competitors that are going to be breathing down my neck in the standings the EXACT INFORMATION they need to over-take me.

But that’s a chance I’m willing to take in order to help people get better and improve the level of expertise across the sport.

For the next few days, the price of each of these videos, is just $9.99.

As soon as I get the Paypal receipt, your video access page, or pages, will be headed towards to your inbox.

Just click the buttons below to get them headed your way.

But before you do that, I’ve got an even better deal for you…

I’ll give you both of these videos 100% free if you join my site, TheGripAuthority.com, for 30 days, for $9.99.

For the price of just 1 of these products, when you join me at TGA, you’ll get both, the Grab Ball video AND the Finnish Ball video.

PLUS, you’ll get instant access to over 12 years of information on Grip Training, Grip Feats, Grip Sport, and Strongman training!

If in any way, you’re not happy with the TGA Membership, you can cancel at any time.

But I want you to try it out, so I’m making this special deal today.

In Summary, if you just want the videos, click the Add to Cart buttons below the video you’d like buy. Make your purchase and I’ll send you the page to view them as soon as I get the notification.

But, if you’d like to test drive TheGripAuthority.com for 30 days, then click the bottom button, and start exploring my expansive Grip Strength Instructional Site to your hearts content, PLUS, you’ll be able to tap into today’s new videos on the Grab Ball and Finnish Ball.

The choice is yours:



Grab Ball


Finnish Ball


Join TGA and Get BOTH VIDEOS for Free!


Thanks and all the best in your training.

NAPALM

Tags: finnish ball, grab ball, grip, grip contest, grip sport, king kong, king kong of grip
Posted in Grip Contest, Grip Sport, grip strength competition contest, how to improve grip strength | Comments Off on Two New Products – Grab Ball and Finnish Ball

Pre-King Kong Training Clips

Tuesday, November 13th, 2018

Man, I really thought I had it…

I thought victory #2 at King Kong was mine.

I knew I had the new Flask World Record all wrapped up, which I hoped would be good enough for a big point advantage.

I knew my Crusher was at an all-time high, and once seeing how different Joe Sullivan’s Crusher was, I knew I would be getting a much higher number than what I got in training.

The Moon Top was where I was going to slide in the standings, but I was nearing 50lbs in training before developing some sensitivity in my right middle finger.

And I thought for sure I was going to get 300lbs on the Jug, as I made gains every workout for like 4 weeks straight or something like that.

Here’s some footage of a couple big lifts prior to King Kong:

Flask Lift – Near Double with Current World Record Weight (118lbs)

299lbs on the 2.5″ FBBC Jug

As you can see, the strength was there on those two lifts. Unfortunately, despite the different model of Crusher giving me a nearly 25-lb boost in strength, I failed twice on 290, after succeeding at 280. I also screwed up the score sheet and didn’t report my lift of 50lbs on the Moon Top. Had I done that right and gotten 283 or 284, I would have been King Kong of Grip in 2018 and been the first man to win twice.

It just wasn’t in the cards.

But all that aside, my training was on point.

And if you’d like to try out what I was doing, it’s all in the King Kong Grip Challenge 2018 Workout Plan.

This went on sale in August, and it is almost exactly what I did.

So if you’d like to try it out and see where it can take you, you can pick it up by clicking here: Buy the 2018 King Kong of Grip Workouts.

All the best in your training!

“Napalm” Jedd Johnson

Posted in Grip Contest, Grip Sport, grip strength, King Kong of Grip | 2 Comments »

This Week in Grip Episodes 66-70

Tuesday, October 23rd, 2018

Time to get caught up a little bit on This Week in Grip.

Incidentally, I created a Playlist for the Podcast, so if you’re new to the show, you can start right from the beginning and get caught up: This Week in Grip Complete Playlist

Episode 66 – Hand Shake Power & Rich Williams’ 560 Axle

Episode 67 – Joe Sullivan and the Cross Canada Grip Challenge

Episode 68 – Follow Up on Rich W & What’s the Deal with Plate Flipping?

Episode 69 – Jujimufu & Tom Visit

Episode 70 – What is the Inch Dumbbell???

All the best in your training.

Jedd

Tags: grip, grip sport, grip strength
Posted in Grip Contest, grip hand forearm training for sports, Grip Sport, grip strength, grip strength blob, grip strength competition contest, grip task force, Grip Training, grip training equipment gear, gripper training, hand strength | 18 Comments »

More Big Feats in 2018

Monday, October 22nd, 2018

Never Before Done Grip Strength Combo Feat

I’ve had my eye on a few goals this year, along the lines of grip strength feats.

The biggest one, I crossed off my list earlier this month – the Inch Dumbbell Clean.

I also recently was successful for the first time pinching 2x25kg plates.

Well, I took that one a little further, but doing a combo feat with the Inch Dumbbell, as well.

Inch Dumbbell Plus 2x25kg Plate Pinch

Training has been going very well, and I am very thankful. Probably 95% of my work has been dedication to King Kong. Luckily, the events have lined up well with the extracurricular feats I’ve been working on as well.

Now, it is Deload time, in preparation for King Kong.

If everything goes well, I will hit some PR’s on the King Kong events.

And maybe even go for some other cool feats, once the competition is out of the way.

How’s your training going?

Feel free to leave a comment below to let us know where you’re at, as the year winds down.

All the best in your training.

Jedd

Tags: pinch, pinch plates, pinching, plate pinch
Posted in feats of strength, Grip Sport, grip strength, hand strength, how to build pinch strength, inch dumbbell, Pinch Grip | 19 Comments »

How Did Napalm Get Started with Grip Training?

Monday, October 8th, 2018

How Jedd Got Started in Grip Start

Lately lots of viewers on my YouTube Channel have been asking lots of great questions in the comments section of my videos.

I love it!

I have a whole list that continues to grow and I plan on answering all of them.

Here’s the first of many…

Question: Jedd, how did you get involved in Grip Training?

Check Out My Complete Diesel Crew Product Catalog

Join My Grip Instructional Site

Become a Member of My Grip Coaching Program

Tags: grip strength, jedd johnson
Posted in Grip Contest, grip hand forearm training for sports, Grip Sport, grip strength, grip strength blob, grip strength competition contest, grip task force, Grip Training, grip training equipment gear, gripper training, how to improve grip strength, Pinch Grip | 18 Comments »

Training for Grip Strength with Jujimufu and Tom Boyden

Thursday, September 27th, 2018

Jujimufu and Tom Train Grip Strength Training

Jujimufu and Tom Boyden visited PEAK Strength and Fitness last week and we helped them out with their grip technique. Especially on Grippers, technique is a major factor. This is evidenced by the fact that Juji was able to close a #3 gripper for the first time ever, after we covered gripper technique with him.

They took a bunch of footage and put out the first video last night. Check it out:

I can’t put enough emphasis on the importance of technique for Grippers. If you aren’t doing it right, you’re holding yourself back.

The absolute best resources for Gripper Training are below. Grab one today, and get ready to close bigger grippers almost instantly:

GRIPPER RESOURCES:

CRUSH: Total Gripper Domination
The Must-Have Gripper Video for ANYONE Serious about their Gripper Training

Operation: Gripper Certification
Training to certify on the #3 Gripper, guys? Then you need to watch this video with Paul Knight, one of the best gripper guys in the USA.

Cadenced Based Gripper Training
Want an 8-week program, designed to build your gripper strength the way you’d build your Bench, Squat or Deadlift? Then you need this!

The Push and Crush Workout
Want to spice things up in the weight room a little bit? Try combining your gripper work with your upper body training to break through plateaus –

Full Sweep Crush Builder Is it time to specialize on the credit card set for a while? This workout helps build your crush strength by intensely working on the longer gripper stroke.

Tags: grip, grip strength, gripper training, grippers
Posted in Crush, Grip Contest, Grip Sport, grip strength, grip strength competition contest, Grip Training, gripper training | Comments Off on Training for Grip Strength with Jujimufu and Tom Boyden

Do Grippers Get Weaker Over Time?

Wednesday, September 26th, 2018

In this video, NAPALM answers the question, “Do grippers get weaker over time, with use?” Many gripper guys and gals have asked me this and it’s a reasonable enough questions. So, does the gripper “season” and get easier? Will the spring weaken and make it easier to close the gripper over time? Will the spread of the gripper eventually narrow, and make closing the gripper easier? Or will the gripper get HARDER to close over time? All of this is explained in today’s quick Grip Strength QnA video.

GRIPPER RESOURCES:

CRUSH: Total Gripper Domination
The Must-Have Gripper Video for ANYONE Serious about their Gripper Training

Operation: Gripper Certification
Training to certify on the #3 Gripper, guys? Then you need to watch this video with Paul Knight, one of the best gripper guys in the USA.

Cadenced Based Gripper Training
Want an 8-week program, designed to build your gripper strength the way you’d build your Bench, Squat or Deadlift? Then you need this!

The Push and Crush Workout
Want to spice things up in the weight room a little bit? Try combining your gripper work with your upper body training to break through plateaus –

Full Sweep Crush Builder Is it time to specialize on the credit card set for a while? This workout helps build your crush strength by intensely working on the longer gripper stroke.

Tags: close big gripeprs, close bigger grippers, crush grip, gripper, gripper training, grippers
Posted in Crush, Grip Sport, grip strength, Grip Training, gripper training, how to improve grip strength | 3 Comments »

Jedd Johnson vs Brian Shaw

Friday, September 21st, 2018

I got a very interesting question recently, where a YouTube viewer wanted to know if my Grip might be stronger than Brian Shaw’s. I answer this and cover similar thoughts in the video below:

Tags: blob lifting, blobzilla, brian shaw, grip strength
Posted in blob lifting training workouts, Grip Contest, Grip Sport, grip strength | 2 Comments »

This Week in Grip – Late Summer

Tuesday, September 11th, 2018

This Week in Grip Episodes 61-65

Episode 65: Brian Shaw’s Inch DB Incline Press

Episode 64: The Dinnie Stones

Episode 63: Tommy “The Heckler” Jennings

Episode 62: Grip Feats from Early August

Episode 61: The Shaw Grip Dissension

Tags: brian shaw, brian shaw inch dumbbell, brian shaw inch dumbbell incline press, inch dumbbell, inch dumbbell press
Posted in Grip Contest, Grip Sport, grip strength, grip strength competition contest, This Week in Grip | 10 Comments »

This Week in Grip – Episodes

Wednesday, August 15th, 2018

This Week in Grip Podcast

This Week in Grip – Episode 60 – Grip Feats From July

This Week in Grip – Episode 59 – Northeastern Grip Challenge

This Week in Grip – Episode 58 – A Legend, Lifts & a Lighter

Get Started with Grip Training and Feats of Strength Today
Grab This DVD Set and Go Full Steam Ahead!

Tags: grip, grip sport, grip training, grip workout, grip workouts, ironmind, plate pinching, rolling thunder, thick bar
Posted in feats of strength, Grip Contest, grip hand forearm training for sports, Grip Sport, grip strength, grip strength blob, grip strength competition contest, Grip Training, grip training equipment gear, gripper training, hand strength | 12 Comments »

This Week in Grip – Episodes 55, 56, 57

Monday, July 2nd, 2018

This Week in Grip

Finally catching up on This Week in Grip Episodes

This Week in Grip Episode 55

This week, we interview Luke Raymond, the 2018 North American Grip Sport Overall Champion

This Week in Grip Episode 56

This week, I cover some of the biggest feats from the month of June, cover some big announcements from Grip Sport International, and talk about a competition I’ll be running in Syracuse on July 21.

This Week in Grip Episode 57

This week we sit down with Mike Rinderle and he shared information from his experience with Rhabdomyolisis. We also talk about the history of the IronMind Captains of Crush Certification.

Wanna Build a Set of FREAKY FOREARMS?
Click the Banner Below!

Tags: captains of crush, grip sport international, gripper certification, lucas raymond, luke raymond, mike rinderle, north american grip sport
Posted in Grip Contest, Grip Sport, grip strength, grip strength competition contest, Grip Training, gripper training | 5 Comments »

This Week in Grip Episodes 45 through 54

Friday, June 29th, 2018

This Week in Grip 45 through 54

Sorry for skipping over these. I was so proud of Luke for winning NAGS this year, I forgot to post the rest of the catch-up episodes that I had missed. They are below:

This Week in Grip – Episode 45 – California’s Strongest Hands

This Week in Grip – Episode 46 – 2018 Canadian National Grip Championship

This Week in Grip – Episode 47

This Week in Grip – Episode 48 – 2018 First Quarter Feats

This Week in Grip – Episode 49 – 25th Anniversary Issue of MILO

This Week in Grip – Episode 50 – Jedd’s Training for Philly

This Week in Grip – Episode 51 – Do Swearing and Grip Training Go Hand in Hand?

This Week in Grip – Episode 52- Odd Haugen Strength Challenge

This Week in Grip – Episode 53 – Clay Edgin and APL World Championships

This Week in Grip – Episode 54 – Looking ahead to the NAGS Championship

Want to Get Started in Grip Sport?
Grab This DVD Set, TODAY:
Basics of Grip and Strongmanism


Tags: grip, grip strength, grip training
Posted in feats of strength, feats of strength bending, forearm training, Grip Contest, Grip Sport, grip strength, grip strength competition contest | 2 Comments »

When is the Next Grip Contest?

Tuesday, June 12th, 2018

I am starting up a new list, devoted solely to communicating when the next sanctioned Grip Contests are taking place. I am contacted all the time by people wanting to know, and this will be the easiest way to keep everyone informed.

All you need to do is put your information in the boxes below and I will send you notifications when the next contests are scheduled, and when other important grip contest news becomes available.

Do you know anyone else who would like to stay up to date about upcoming competitions? If so, please share this post with them, and have them add their email in, as well.

Thanks and all the best in your training.

Jedd

Start Your Grip Sport Career Right With
The Basics of Grip Training and Strongmanism

Tags: grip, grip competitions, grip contest, grip contests, grip contests near me, grip sport, when is the next grip contest, where is the next grip contest
Posted in Grip Contest, Grip Sport, grip strength, grip strength competition contest, Uncategorized | 1 Comment »

2018 NAGS Champion – Luke Raymond

Wednesday, June 6th, 2018

Here’s a write-up from 2018 North American Grip Sport Absolute Champion, Luke Raymond, 93kg weight class

Well to start I definitely did not think that I was going to win at the start of the day with Eric Roussin and fellow Canadians including Justin Major and Tom Bryson I was hoping to sneak into the top 3 overall.

luke raymond north american grip sport champion

To start the day I woke up at 4:15am super anxious for the contest which is normal if anyone knows me. My weight was somewhere near 205 but wasn’t too concerned whether i would be in the 93k or 105k class so i ate a small bowl of oatmeal and drank a creatine drink. I had a bunch of stuff I needed to load in my truck and planned on being at the gym early to help Jedd setup what he didn’t have done. After the 50 minute drive there it was 7:45 and only Jedd and Nigel were there. This was my first time meeting Nigel but following him on IG and FB I feel like I already knew him. After messing around with the two different scales we realized they were both about 1 lb over after checking them with the calibrated plates so we were both good for our respected weight classes. After getting everything settled in an people slowly coming in I relaized there must be something in the water in Canada that makes the people grow bigger because their smallest guy was over 6’ tall and the lightest Dan Fleming is a grip monster.

Chez had put together a list of the USA team for each event and after going through it, the lineup was set and knowing it was going to take some serious lifts to surpass the team from up north.

Event 1- Grippers– I hadn’t been able to train heavy grippers R handed due to injurying my R middle finger when chalking the hub in the Armlifting Contest in Philly (yeah quite the way to injure your finger); so I was unsure how I would do and I was hoping I could get 1-2 decent closes RH on the first two attempts and then if I had to go LH. First attempt I decided to go fairly high with a 155 and smashed it closed, immediate sharp pain in my finger but dissipated enough for me to try 160; close but no cigar. Next attempt I took LH and wasnt close and final attempt RH again no close. Finger held up enough to get me where I was hoping to end up.

Event 2- Euro Pinch – Last contest I was training and consistently pulling 227+ training but wasn’t able to reproduce those numbers in contest. This event I didnt even train Euro specifically instead training flask and IM blockbuster so I was unsure where I was going end up especially since tearing on my last flask session. Warming up I felt pretty good and was able to a few singles at 216 lbs on the warmup implement but is much more seasoned. After hitting my first two attempts at 203 and 208, Rob and I decided to jump up to 218 and both of us unsuccessful.

Event 3- 60mm Napalms Nightmare – thickbar has always been where I lag behind compared to the other elite 93k people and this was no different. I started light at 323 and took my next three attempts at 333, 338, and 348 all successful. The three thickbar giants from Canada still hadn’t even started; Eric, Justin, and Tom. I wasn’t paying full attention but I believe Tom finished around 380-390 and the Eric and Justin at 412. Justin was frustrated as he had pulled 430+ in training which is just unreal strength for both guys. I knew at this point I was close to the top 3, after figuring out the scoring I was indeed 3rd place behind Justin and Eric and felt I had a possibility of moving up based on the medley and wrist roller event.

Event 4- Medley – based on the items and the weights I was hoping to coming in at 53-56/60 but trying to determine the order to which I could maximize the points without fatiguing and failing on items I would normally lift is that planning part of the medley that makes it challenging. Knowing fatigued I wouldn’t be able to lift the 160lb crusher or the fatman blob those were the first two items I did. I was able to get everything I wanted except the 50lb inverted DB which I ended up with 55/60 which was the winning score wit the next highest being 51/60. After this event Eric and I were tied for first and Justin close behind.

Event 5- Wrist Roller – Ive had success with wrost roller events in the past and Jedd and I tried to figure out an appropriate weight that would lead to about a 40% success rate for the competitors and came up with 115lbs added to the sled. So 130lbs, 34’ and 60 secs was the course. As contestants went through the first competitor to finish was Nick Carigan (Canada) and then 3-4 more competitors coming in around 51-54 secs. Then in third place Justin Major sets a blazing fast pace with 39 secs with Eric and I still to go. In my head I now have to see how Eric does but also have to be able to stay within a few seconds of Justin to win the overall. Eric came up 2ft short of finishing and now I had to pick up my game as this was mine to win. No one else to help and all on me, I win or lose it’s all me. Prior to my attempt my anxiety was kicking in, heart rate was elevated, a little shortness of breath; so after chalking up I decided I would set a timer on my phone for 75 secs and when it said 60 I would start. As I am going I am focusing my eyes on the rope as it is winding on the wrist roller and nothing else, I could hear people yelling including Adam with the time but couldn’t decipher the words and the first time I looked up the sled was about 6’ from the line and I kept cranking on it until it crossed the line and looked at my phone which said 25 sec remaining so I had finished it in 35 secs and then In the excitement and couple yells I realized I had won my first overall contest and just happened to be NAGS.

Jedd had informed me that Brad Martin the gym owner had donated a prize for the overall winner and to find out it was a genuine replica of the 1988 Winged Eagle WWF Championship belt was truly badass.

It was a pleasure not only being in one of the closest grip contests but also competing with a bunch of new people that I had only ever seen on social media including; Nigel, Vinnie, Tom B (who made the trip from western Canada), Justin M, Nick C, and Bernie. Not to mention everyone that I had previously met an competed with. I look forward to many years to come and hopefully team USA can bring the team championship back!

Ready to Get Started with Grip Sport?
There’s No Better Resource Than This DVD Set:

how to get started in grip sport

Tags: grip, grip competition, grip conteest, grip sport, grip strength, grip training, NAGS, nags championship, north american grip sport
Posted in Grip Contest, Grip Sport, grip strength competition contest | 2 Comments »

My 2018 NAGS Experience – Nigel Blackburn

Wednesday, June 6th, 2018

Today’s guest post is from Nigel Blackburn, 66kg competitor from the 2018 North American Grip Sport Championship, which was held on June 2, 2018, at Titan Strength, in Elmira New York. Nigel is a virtual coaching client of mine in the Grip Task Force, and put this post together, reflecting back on his performance…

I’ll start off with a little background before the competition:

I come from a strength training background. I was a competitive powerlifter who also messed around with a few strongman events. Powerlifting inevitably became a “chore.” I didn’t look forward to training, which is always my favorite part of the day. I started brainstorming and realized that grip, to me, is the most fun thing to train. When I get into a hobby, I REALLY get into a hobby. I contacted @Jedd Johnson about getting serious about grip, and we started working together. In January, we started discussing possible opportunities to compete; we both agreed that NAGS 2018 was the way to go. I weighed about 158 at the time, so I hit the qualifying numbers for the 74kg class, but I knew 66kg was attainable (my previous powerlifting weight class). I was given the green light, so I booked a hotel and got my flight from Florida to Elmira.

Fast forward a few months:

After a full day of traveling, I made it to Elmira. My meals consisted on protein bars, unsalted cashews, and a small amount of water. I have always had a lot of anxiety about weight class sports. Making weight is something that scares me. After a poor night of sleep, it was game day. Jedd picked me up and drove me to the gym a few hours early. I had about 3 hours until comp time, and I was damn near ready to get it going. I made weight–not by much. It was a figurative sigh of relief. Weight was taken care of (66kg); now I could shift my focus to the competition. I had the pleasure of meeting and talking to all the competitors, which was great! Everyone was friendly and supportive–surely a nice change of pace from the near-toxic level of competition I have experienced in other sports. Time was flying; before long, it was go time!

The first event was a 20-mm block set close. This event worried me because I had discovered very close to the competition that the block I had been using was closer to 19mm. I ended up packing a Jenga block of all things. I was a tidbit wider than 20mm, but I was set on using my own block so I could place it in my teeth for a super quick transition into the block set. Once it was announced that the lightest weight class starts it off, a fire was lit; that meant I was the first person to take an attempt. Immediately my nervousness transitioned into laser-sharp focus. A deep breath, and I was off. I started off with a BB rated at 130. The set felt spongy and easy, I quickly transitioned and slid the block through, and crushed the first attempt. I was off to a hot start and confidence was high. My goal was to close a gripper rated at my bodyweight, so my sights were set on the 145. My confidence got the best of me for my next attempt. I took a big jump and missed the 140. No worries. My third attempt, I got the 135, but not very convincingly. I ended up fumbling around with the block set and had trouble opening it wide enough. The fourth and last attempt crept up on me, and I retried the 140; close but no cigar. I was admittedly a little discouraged as I closed much heavier in training, but it seemed like everyone had a rough gripper day, so I couldn’t be too mad. Regardless, the 135 gave me a WR by a wide margin, shattering the previous 115 in my weight class (although it was not contested many times).

The 2HP was next. I had my number in mind: 172. 172 would break the recently set WR. I was really thrown for a loop here, as I ended up unintentionally halting the competition as I was trying to find out exactly what I needed. I felt like I was inconveniencing everyone and felt a little embarrassed as a result. After hitting 160 convincingly, I attempted 173, which was the closest it could get to 172. I broke 173 off the floor, but I couldn’t lock it out. Not only would this be a WR but also a 10-lbs PR. I was visibly frustrated, but I tried it again. This time, no budge. Hindsight bias really got into my head here. I knew I could’ve gotten 170 and posted a better number, but I got greedy.

The Napalm Nightmare followed shortly after. My goal was the hit around 260. I knew this would likely be my worst event, and I was right. I hit my opener at 235, and it went downhill from there. Despite hitting 238×4 in training, I couldn’t get 245 on my next 3 attempts. I was actually just happy I didn’t bomb out on this event.

The medley room was a sensory overload–12 objects in 90 seconds. I never got to practice medley because I ended up resting about a week and a half before the meet to mend up a few aches and skin tears. Once the timer started, I moved quick and efficiently. I had a plan, and I executed very well. I made two huge mistakes, one of which I did not even notice until after: I forgot the anvil completely and did not lift the crusher. The clip on the Crusher got stuck on the loading pin, so I skipped it and came back at the end. By that time I was gassed and failed to lift it. Rookie mistakes, undeniably.

Last event: the dreaded wrist roller. I can’t write much about this. It was honestly a blur, and I’m 100% convinced I have already repressed the memory. All I can tell you is made it about 26 feet and my forearms nearly exploded. So, yeah…. that’s all I have to say about that.

Initially, I was very disappointed in my performance. I took gold and set a modest WR, but my main goals remained unachieved. I then gave it some though. This was my first ever grip competition–WHO CARES. It was that simple. I’m 23 years old, and I just finished my first competition. My main goal was to get my feet wet and experience what gripsport is all about; I did just that. I also got the meet the community–every single person I met was kind, encouraging, and well-spoken. I had competed and had a blast doing it. With that being said, I would consider NAGS 2018 is be a great success and a day I won’t forget. I’m already looking forward to all my future competitions where I will get to meet more people and run back into the great people I have met. I would list everyone out, but I feel this post is already way too long as is.

My Note to Nigel: I thought you did awesome my man.

Grippers can get sketchy in a hurry, bro. And like you saw, lots of people were having trouble, despite the fact that they had all be freshly cleaned and the springs oiled. What is great is that you had complete command of the gripper, the set, the block, etc. I was happy to see all that.

On the Pinch, don’t ever think you’re holding the contest up by verifying a number for a record. That is part of the game, ever since weight classes were instituted. I think for most people, it actually adds to the excitement and suspense, that someone has a big number in mind to break, and they want to pay attention more and witness the whole thing.

On the Nightmare, I think it could have had something to do with the slowing of the pace, due to everyone’s energy levels being low after the second event, plus eating pizza, etc. I thought everyone seemed totally dead after that, and remember thinking, “What the heck is going on with these guys?” Ha ha.

The Wrist Roller is just plain tough. And Medleys are an experience all themselves. In your time training grip, you haven’t done a lot of the “oddball” stuff that shows up in a Medley. With more time under your belt, you’ll feel more comfortable with all of the different implements. I like to lay out almost a grid-pattern in my head, surrounding all the items with invisible lines, to make more sense of it all.

Take note, that many of the guys who’ve only done contests like King Kong or Grip Games, where there is no Medley, also make tactical errors. Once you go through a Medley or two, you get an idea of how to cut your time down, and maximize your potential on each item. It will all come, my man.

To wrap up…awesome job. You attacked everything, bro. That’s what you need to do. Can’t wait to see you at the next contest, now that you’ve gotten the taste of grip competition!


Join Jedd’s Grip Task Force Today,
And Start Reaching Your Goals Faster Than Ever
Click Here to Join

Tags: grip competition, grip contest, grip sport, grip sport international, north american grip sport
Posted in Grip Contest, Grip Sport, grip strength competition contest | 6 Comments »

This Week in Grip – Episodes 40 through 44

Sunday, May 27th, 2018

This Week in Grip – Episodes 40 Through 44

This Week in Grip-Episode 40 – CA Strongest Hands, 2018 Predictions & Goals

This Week in Grip – Episode 41 – Feats and Pizzles

This Week in Grip – Episode 42 – Finnish Nationals and a New Product Review

This Week In Grip – Episode 43 – Hands-on Grip Games

This Week in Grip – BONUS SHOW! Episode 44 – Dubai Trip #2

Tags: armlifting, grip, grip sport, grip strength, grip training
Posted in Grip Sport, grip strength, grip strength competition contest, Grip Training | 30 Comments »

How Often Should You Train with Grippers?

Tuesday, May 22nd, 2018

Gripper Training

Gripper training continues to be the most popular form of grip training.

Gripper training has often been labeled the “gateway drug to grip sport” because once people get their hands on grippers, they often get hooked, and want to try out many other types of grip training, as well.

Once you get serious with your gripper work though, it’s time to start doing things the right way, and that means optimizing the way you train with grippers.

Gripper Training Frequency

It’s no surprise that many people want to know how often to train grippers is best. After all, lifters love the idea of closing big grippers.

However, if you’re not careful, you can really overdo it with your gripper training and make your finger skin and your hand tissues very sore.

Plus, with too much volume, or too frequent of training, you generally end up stalling on grippers or even sliding backwards.

Today, I share my views on the optimal frequency for gripper training in the video below.

How Often Should I Train with Grippers?

Gripper Training Programming

Hopefully, the video above makes sense for you. Doing anymore frequent training has never been effective for me, and generally it throws a monkey wrench into the rest of my training when I try to push the frequency.

In addition, approaching Gripper Training frequency with a 2-day-per-week program has been effective for close to 100% of all the people I’ve coached as well.

On top of that, I’ve received lots of feedback from customers who’ve bought my Cadence Based Gripper Training Program, who have said that the 2-days-per-week has been great and helped them make good strides in their gripper training.

In my opinion, based on my own training results, and the results of people I’ve designed programs for directly, and those who’ve followed my gripper products, 2 days/week is the DEFINITELY the way to go for grippers.

Gripper Training Technique

It should be noted, however, that if your gripper technique (placement and set) are not optimized, it’s likely that no matter how often you train them, you’ll never see much improvement past a #2 gripper.

Large-handed and naturally strong-handed individuals will be able to overcome grippers up to about the #2 through plain brute strength and raw power, but to go beyond that will require you to develop your technique.

Therefore, I recommend anyone who wants to seriously attempt to climb the gripper ladder get my DVD, CRUSH: Total Gripper Domination, so they can properly iron out their technique for maximized crushing power.

Wrap Up: How Often To Train on Grippers

I love hearing you guys tell me about hitting PR’s and smashing bigger and bigger grippers.

That’s why I put out all the gripper training information I do.

If you’re just starting out with grippers, do yourself a favor and get the best resource in the world on gripper training technique and drills: CRUSH: Total Gripper Domination

And if you’ve got a good handle on the proper gripper mechanics, then it’s time to formalize your training over the next 8 weeks with this solid program: Cadence Based Gripper Training.

All the best with your gripper training.

“Napalm” Jedd Johnson


Tags: cadence based gripper training, gripper, gripper frequency, gripper training, grippers
Posted in Grip Contest, Grip Sport, grip strength, Grip Training, gripper training, how to improve grip strength | 4 Comments »

What’s The Difference Between The Rolling Thunder and Other Thick Bar Handles?

Monday, May 21st, 2018

Lots of people ask me what the difference is between the Rolling Thunder and other rolling handle devices.

With the advent of so many cool rolling handle tools on the market, this question is presented to me more and more all the time.

I know how important this information is to you, because thick bar training is one of the best ways to develop grip strength.

Today, I cover the differences between the Rolling Thunder and various other thick bar rolling handle tools, in today’s video.

I’ll also touch on how the Crusher, Trillobite, Silarukov and other thick bar rolling handle tools compare to the Rolling Thunder from IronMind.

I hope this answers your questions about how the Rolling Thunder compares and contrasts with other thick bar training handles on the market.

Incidentally, if your main interest in thick bar training is to bring up your strength on the Rolling Thunder, in order to complete the Crushed to Dust Challenge, then I recommend the Rolling Thunder, in the interest of specifics of training.

And if you’re looking for a training plan to get you to the top of the Rolling Thunder mountain faster than ever before, there’s no better resource than this workout: Crushed to Dust Workout.

All the best in your training.

Jedd

See What MATTIA CRISPINO Had to Say
About The Drills in
The CRUSHED TO DUST WORKOUT:

“Dramatic Difference in Wrist Strength“

“Jedd, I think your tips on wrist training were really important. I’ve noticed many improvements in my wrist strength for steel bending.

It’s given me the strength necessary to destroy the gold nail, without even warming up. I’ve never had this feeling of power in my wrists before.

I’m also seeing improvements on the Rolling Thunder lift – on good days, I’m getting 15-20 reps with 70kg, which is a BIG improvement.

I’m getting close to reaching my goals (CTD Challenge and Inch Dumbbell lift) and every day that passes I feel stronger and stronger.

Thank you so much, for everything!”

Mattia Crispino



Tags: crushed to dust, crushed to dust training, ctd, ironmind crushed to dust, rolling handle implements, rolling handle training, rolling handles, rolling thunder, rolling thunder training, thick bar grip, thick bar training
Posted in Grip Contest, Grip Sport, grip strength, grip strength competition contest, Grip Training, thick bar | 1 Comment »

2018 North American Grip Sport Championship

Saturday, May 19th, 2018

The 2018 North American Grip Sport Championship will take place on June 2, 2018 at Titan Strength, located at 103 Stowell Place, Elmira New York.

For complete information on the event, please go here: 2018 NAGS Championship

At A Glance:

Date: June 2, 2018
Entry Fee: $50
Location: Titan Strength in Elmira, NY
Paypal: [email protected]

ENTRY FORM CLICK HERE

CONTEST SCHEDULE:

Pushing Everything Back 1 Hour from the Norm, due to the Canadian group driving in the morning of.
Weigh-ins – Begin 9:00 AM
Rules – 10:00 AM
Warm-ups – 10:30 AM
1st Event, Grippers Begin – 11:00 AM

IMPORTANT: If you are not sure what width you will be using on the 2 Hands Pinch,
please decide this and your first attempt before the Gripper Event Starts at 11:00.
The devices will be out for you to text the entire morning.

Currently Planned Weight Classes & Divisions:

Men’s 66 kg
Men’s 74 kg
Men’s 83 kg
Men’s 93 kg
Men’s 105 kg
Men’s 120 kg
Men’s 120+ kg
Women’s Open
Men’s 50+ Years Open
**No qualification required for Women’s Open and Men’s 50+ Years Open divisions.

To View Qualifications for Competition Click Here

Event Rules:

1. NAGS Gripper Set – One Hand Contested – 20mm Block – 4 attempts
The athlete will set the gripper with the off hand and then must pass the block through him or herself. The athlete may switch back and forth between hands as needed to get the best close out of their 4 attempts. At no time may the gripper be braced against the body during the set or during the close. This will be strictly enforced. If the lifter closes the gripper, the judge will say “Good” or “Closed.” If the lifter is unsuccessful, the judge will so “No.”

We will try to move through this quickly, possibly running two grippers and judges at a time, as was done at NAGS 2017.

2. Two Hands Pinch on Euro – 16.5″ Crossbar – 4 Attempts

2 Implements will run at a time, the same implements that have been used only at Nationals since 2014. One will be the light implement, starting below 185lbs, and the other will be the heavy implement, starting over 185lbs. We will begin with the lower widths first and then work our way up. For instance, once all lifters using 48mm are finished, the width will be changed to the next higher width desired. Please know your width prior to the contest, in order to save time. At least one separate apparatus will be on hand for people to take warm-ups.

The athlete will grip the implement with both hands in an overhand grip. Underhand or alternated are not permitted. The lifter gets 4 attempts. Any effort to lift the implement off the floor is considered an attempt. This is a Rising Bar event, so if the lifter fails on an attempt, he/she may wait 2 minutes and then repeat that weight, or have weight added, but may not drop down in weight.

3. Napalm’s Nightmare – 2 3/8″ Handles – 6-inch Lift Height – 4 Attempts

A genuine Napalm’s Nightmare implement will be used. The athlete must take a double overhand grip – alternated or underhand are not permitted. The athlete takes his/her grip and lifts, trying to make a knock-bar contact a cross-bar, 6 inches above. Any effort to lift the device is considered an attempt, and if the implement does not reach proper height, or if the implement slips from the athlete’s hands before touching the floor, the lift is disqualified. This is a rising bar event – once weight is added, it will not be removed. If the lifter misses a lift, he/she may repeat that weight or go up, but may not drop down.

Weight jumps will be a 10lb plate, a 10lb plate, then the 10’s will be removed and replaced with a 25-lb plate, then a 10lb plate, and then the 25lb and 10lb plates will be removed and replaced with a 45-lb plate.

4. Medley

12 Items in 90 seconds

There will be 4 weight options for each challenge category. They are listed from most to least difficult. Most difficult = 5 points, then 4 points, 3 points, and the least difficult will receive 2 points.

1. Double RT Pull-up – 4 / 3 / 2 / 1

2. Block Weights – Fatman 53# / Next Gen Blob 50# / Half 75 Next Gen / Half 70 Hex /

3. Rolling Handles – 2.5″ Crusher 190 / Mannino 165 / Old RT 140 / Old RT 115

4. Inch Pinch – 65 / 50 / 35 / 20

5. Sledge Choke to Box +/- 31″ Handles – 10# / 8# / 6# / 3#

6. Anvil to Lockout – 113+20-lbs (ring)/ 113 / 67 / 55

7. Challenge Bells – Inch Dumbbell 170 / Death Grip 154 / Shot 123 / Plate Loadable 80

8. Plate Hub Lift – 45# + 10/ 45# / 35″ / 25″

9. Sledge Face Lever – 16 / 12 / 8 / 6

10. Plate Pinch – 2×45’s / 2x35s / 2x25s / 3x10s

11. Inverted Dumbbell Lift Smooth Faces Only – 60 / 50 / 35 / 20

12. Loose Plate Pinch – 5 tens / 4 tens / 3 tens / 2 tens

Athletes can start on any feat, without their hand touching the item, and they can take tries at multiple difficulty levels within the same category, but will only receive points for their top performance in that category. In other words, they will receive only 4 points for doing 3 RT Pullups. If they do 3 on one try and 2 on the next, they will receive 4 points for doing 3.

1. Double RT Pull-up: Reasonable extension on each rep, chin above the rolling thunders on each rep, no re-gripping. Reps must be done consecutively.

2. Block Weights: Loaded to a platform

3. Rolling Handles: Lift to Lockout with Down Call

4. Inch Pinch: 6″ pull above block

5. Sledge Choke to Box: Grip by end of handle, load onto box without quarter falling off

6. Anvils: Grip by horn, lift to lockout

7. Challenge Bells: Lift for speed, so tilts and bracing permitted, must lift with one hand.

8. Plate Hub Lift: Lift for speed, any grip required

9. Sledge Face Lever: Reasonable control keeping the working hand approximately

10. Plate Pinch: Load to platform

11. Inverted Dumbbell Lift Smooth Faces Only: No contact with print on dumbbell, lift to platform

12. Loose Plate Pinch: Load to platform

5. Wrist Roller for Time

Distance and weight of sled to be determined upon visiting the venue – Approximately 30 to 40 feet. 60 seconds time limit

The objective will be to pull a sled towards you by winding it up a wrist roller, using a wrist extension motion. Distance will be marked if the course is not completed, and scores awarded by distance.

Anyone who drags it partially will earn between 51 and 75 points and anyone who drags it the full distance earns between 76 and 100 points (scaled based on speed – fastest time earns 100 points).

Tags: grip championship, grip contest, grip sport championship north american grip championship, north american grip championship
Posted in Grip Sport, grip strength competition contest | 1 Comment »

Dubai Trip 2018

Monday, February 19th, 2018

Jedd’s 2018 Dubai Trip with Bader Alawadhi and Laine Snook

I was blessed to have been invited to Dubai once again by my good friend, Bader Alawadhi last week. And this time, I was not alone. In fact, the one and only Laine Snook, from the UK, came along for the trip.

The week was incredible to say the least. Laine is quite possibly the strongest Grip Guy I’ve ever met, and definitely the strongest I’ve ever trained with.

Over the course of the week, we were able to train 3 different times, and each session was a blast.

I am in the process of uploading the video clips I was able to get to my YouTube Channel (click the link to subscribe), and will be posting them here on the site, when I can.

The vids are in no particular order, just how I ended up publishing them on the channel.

Most Recent Dubai Vids

Laine Snook Multiple Fatman Blob Curls Backwards

Fatman Blob Curl for 2 Reps

Laine Snook Lifts Over 105kg on 2.5″ Crusher

Laine Snook Lifts the Queen Inch

Second Round of Vids

Blob50 – 2 Finger Lift Rep-out

Laine Snook Multiple Fatman Blob Curls Backwards

First Dubai Vids

Bader – 2 Finger Clean of Blob50

If You Try to Trick Laine Snook, You Will Pay!

Pinching Super Slick 5x10s at Bader’s Gym

Fatman Blob Curl Backwards

Laine Snook Lifts Heavy Grip Tools 30kg Blob

There will be plenty more videos coming. Be sure to sign up for email updates here on the site, as well as subscribing to my YouTube Channel.

Thanks and all the best in your training!

Jedd

Tags: bader, bader alawadhi, blob, dubai grip, dubai grip training, grip training in dubai, heavy grips blob, laine snook, millennium dumbbell
Posted in blob lifting training workouts, Grip Sport, grip strength, Grip Training | Comments Off on Dubai Trip 2018

This Week in Grip – Episodes 37, 38 & 39

Saturday, January 20th, 2018

This Week in Grip

This Week in Grip is the (nearly) weekly podcast show that Allen Heineck, Riccardo Magni, and I do on YouTube. In This Week in Grip, we discuss the latest things going on in the sport of grip, as well as feats of grip strength that we see posted on-line, grip training topics, grip q&a’s, oldtime strongman feats, grip certifications, grip world records, and much, much more.

Please be sure to subscribe to the channel and click the bell for notifications on your mobile device. Also, if there’s any commentary or questions you’d like to put forth, please do so in the comments section under the video, and we will do our best to cover and answer them in the upcoming shows.

Specifically, we are wondering what you feel are the Top Feats of Grip Strength that you saw go down in 2018. Please post your thoughts!

Episode 37

Episode 38

Episode 39

Tags: feats of strength, grip, grip sport, grip training, hand strength
Posted in Grip Contest, Grip Sport, grip strength, grip strength competition contest, Grip Training, grip training equipment gear, gripper training | 1 Comment »

Greasing the Groove for Gippers?

Wednesday, January 10th, 2018

Will “Greasing the Groove” Help Me Close Bigger Grippers

I got a question on my YouTube Channel about Greasing the Groove for Grippers, and I answered it in a recent video.

Mainly, the writer wants to know if the commonly known “Greasing the Groove” method, which is often used for Pull-ups, Push-ups, and other strength maneuvers, can work to help increase crushing strength with Grippers.

Additional Resources:

Tags: grip, gripper, gripper program, gripper programs, gripper training, gripper workout, gripper workouts, grippers
Posted in Grip Sport, grip strength, Grip Training, gripper training, how to improve grip strength, improve grip strength crush | 2 Comments »

A SAVAGE Saturday Session

Monday, January 8th, 2018

Big Goblet and Grip Feats Go Down on 1/6/18

Few workouts in the past six months have been as incredible as this past Saturday’s session.

It started off rocky, though brother. I’ll be honest.

I was in a rush to get out of the house and get downtown, and as a result, I took my mind off the ball and forgot to grab the empty propane tank for the heater I run during my sessions.

Call me a pussy for running a heater. That’s fine. But I’m not training to lift the Housafell stone in freezing temperatures. I’m training to keep myself sane. So I run a heater.

So, I made an extra trip downtown to get it, and it made a huge difference. The temperature outside was below 0, and the temp inside was freezing. The propane cooking helped make Saturday’s Savage Session one that probably won’t be topped in a while, at least as far as the strength feats that I pulled off are concerned.

Here’s a rundown of the highlights.

236lb Goblet Squats for a Double

It’s been a while since I pushed the envelope with Goblet Squats, and these Death Grip Bells, with their sharp edges will WRECK your hands, but I decided it was time to step it up. I attached a 50lb Scale Weight to my 186lb Homicide Bell. Getting it into position was an absolute NIGHTMARE, but with some redneck ingenuity, I got her done!

Blobzilla Plus 5 Pounds

This is a mark I’ve been working toward for a while now. I first started this hike back in October of 2015, but have not trained it consistently until the last quarter of 2017. I’ve been breaking it off the ground for a month or so, and came really close a week ago, but I made it a no-doubter on Savage Saturday.

Blobzilla Clean

Some people know this already, but not many. At the AOBS Dinner in October of 2015, after my performance, I successfully did an ugly Clean with Blobzilla. A combination of feeling amazing for several months, my training being locked in, and the adrenaline of having so many people around allowed me to get it done. But I hadn’t done it again since until Savage Saturday.

One of the goals that’s been on my radar, but still on the backburner is lifting the Blobfather (half 140lb York Legacy Blob). My hands feel very strong right now. I feel I am on my way, and if I can keep things going, Blobfather will be coming off the ground sometime this year. It will really come down to how much time I can put into it, as I also have some other goals I’m focused on, in addition to getting my right ring finger rehabbed in time for Nationals in June.

Stay tuned and come along for the ride.

All the best in your training.

Jedd

Training to Lift a Big Block Weight?
Then Grab These Resources:

Tags: blob, blobzilla, block weight, block weights, pinch, pinch grip, savage saturday
Posted in blob lifting training workouts, block weights blob, feats of strength, Grip Sport, grip strength, grip strength blob, grip strength competition contest, Grip Training, hand strength, how to build pinch strength, Pinch Grip, two hands pinch | 2 Comments »

Gripmas Carol 2017

Thursday, December 14th, 2017

Gripmas 2017

The Gripmas Carol 2017 took place over the weekend in Crooksville, OH. It was run by Chris Rice with assistance from his wife, Teresa, and his son, Josh. It was a great time.

Hats off to Andrew Durniat, who took back the title of Gripmas Champion. I took second, and the Chez took 3rd.

My performance across the board on all 4 events was hindered tremendously by an injury to the A2 Pulley Tendon on my right ring finger. I was forced to close the Ivanko Super Gripper left-handed, the Two Hands Pinch hurt the instant it broke off the floor, I also had to skip a number of the heavier narrow pinch lifts and the campus board feats in the Medley.

Starting from behind with only 6.5 points when the leaders have 9 or 10 is hard enough, let alone when your finger won’t concentrate. It made for a very frustrated Napalm.

Here are some clips from the contest, although not everything is done yet, due to limited time to edit video.

Ivanko Super Gripper

My left hand isn’t as good on grippers and felt particularly terrible on the day of the comp. To make matters worse, the light fixture on the gripper would not light up for me, for some reason, until the last attempt. I ended up finishing near the middle of the pack with about a 230lb close. I do not have any clips for this event, at this time.

Medley

You’ll see I was sailing pretty smoothly until the end, when I got to the narrow pinch stuff. I purposely left that stuff to the end, because it’s usually gimme weight, but the injury to the finger made each lift BURN, and I lost many of the points I desperately needed.

Double Sledge Lever

A very exciting event, the Double Sledge weighed between 30 and 33lbs. My goal was 20 reps, because it wasn’t bothering my finger. I thought this might bump me up a bit to catch the leader, Durniat. Unfortunately, he had the same number in his sights. He was successful in getting it, but I only knocked out 18, and missed my 19th.

Thank God, despite the poor finish, I didn’t worsen the injury, and nothing else went wrong.

In fact, I’d honestly say my Thick Bar and Wide Pinching strengths are really really good right now.

After the contest, while others were eating, and before & during the awards, I hit a bunch of random feats, many of which involved combo lifts with the Inch Dumbbell. Many of those are up on my YouTube already, so you can check them out there. I’ve still got a small handful that require more editing and I just haven’t had the time to do it all yet.

We covered Gripmas in the most recent episode of This Week in Grip also, so I will post that below.

This Week in Grip – Episode 37 – The Gripmas Carol

Also, I put together a complete playlist of all the Gripmas videos, and I’m going to post the link to it below.

Complete Gripmas Video Playlist

Complete Gripmas 2017 Playlist of Videos

Thanks for watching, and stay tuned for some big announcements about upcoming 2018 Grip Competitions.

All the best in your training.

Jedd

Tags: andrew durniat, chris rice, gripmas, gripmas 2017
Posted in Grip Contest, Grip Sport, grip strength | 1 Comment »

This Week in Grip – Episode 36

Wednesday, December 6th, 2017

This Week in Grip

Episode 36

In episode 36, we talk about Gripmas, the LA Fit Expo, and many of the other competitions that are set to close out 2017 and get 2018 rolling with plenty of Grip Power! We also look at some of the biggest feats that went down in the past week, including a deep set #4 close by a gripster named Artur Tumaguzhin.

Next week, we plan on covering the Inch Dumbbell. What questions do you have on the Inch? Leave your questions below, or in the comments section on YouTube.

Thanks for watching and all the best in your training.

Jedd

Tags: grip sport, grip strength, grip training, inch, inch dumbbell, thomas inch replica
Posted in Grip Contest, Grip Sport, grip strength, Grip Training, inch dumbbell | 1 Comment »

Catching Up on This Week in Grip

Wednesday, December 6th, 2017

This Week in Grip

Let’s finally get caught up on all the past episodes of This Week in Grip.

Episode 33

Got totally skipped by accident, and we’re not gonna go back and re-do it!

Episode 34

Episode 35

Episode 36

Thanks for watching and all the best in your training.

Jedd

Tags: grip sport, grip strength, this week in grip, twig
Posted in feats of strength, Grip Contest, Grip Sport, grip strength, grip strength blob, grip strength competition contest, Grip Training, grip training equipment gear, gripper training, hand strength, This Week in Grip | No Comments »

Some More Episodes of This Week in Grip

Wednesday, November 22nd, 2017

This Week in Grip

Still playing catch-up on the episodes of This Week in Grip that I’m behind on.

This Week in Grip – Episode 30

This Week in Grip – Episode 31 – Part 1

This Week in Grip – Episode 31 – Part 2

This Week in Grip – Episode 32 – Part A

This Week in Grip – Episode 32 – Part B

I hope you enjoy them.

All the best in your training,

Jedd

horseshoe bending

Tags: grip, grip sport, grip strength, grip training, grip workout, gripper, grippers, this week in grip
Posted in feats of strength, Grip Contest, grip hand forearm training for sports, Grip Sport, grip strength, grip strength blob, grip strength competition contest, Grip Training, grip training equipment gear, gripper training | No Comments »

This Week in Grip – Episodes 27, 28, & 29

Tuesday, November 14th, 2017

I am really behind on posting episodes of This Week in Grip, the podcast show where Allen Heineck and I cover the latest in the grip world, including Grip Sport, Oldtime Strongman Training and Feats of Grip Strength, as well as other topics closely related to Grip Training.

We also recently added Riccardo Magni to our regular TWIG Team.

Below, you’ll find episodes 27, 28 and 29. I hope you enjoy them. Be sure to subscribe and don’t be afraid to share your favorite episodes with your friends.

This Week in Grip – Episode 27

This Week in Grip – Episode 28

This Week in Grip – Episode 29

I’ll have more episodes of This Week in Grip posted here soon. I don’t want to overload you with TOO MUCH of a great thing.

All the best in your training.

Jedd

Tags: feats of grip strength, grip, grip sport, grip training, grippers
Posted in feats of strength, Grip Sport, grip strength, grip strength blob, grip strength competition contest, Grip Training, grip training equipment gear, gripper training, hand strength | No Comments »

International King Kong of Grip 2017

Monday, October 30th, 2017

This past Saturday was the 5th Annual International King Kong of Grip Challenge.

king kong of grip

This year’s competition took place at 18 different venues in 9 different countries, and saw 170 competitors hit the stage.

I have been training very hard for this competition, because I wanted to get my title back.

I won it in 2015, and think I would have had a pretty good chance to repeat as champion last year, but I hurt my back a week or two before the contest and was in severe pain, which hurt me very bad on two of the events.

This year was my chance to become the first person to ever win it twice.

Unfortunately, despite my best training efforts, putting together 6 to 8 weeks of excellent work, and having one of my best competition days ever, especially for these events, I was not successful in getting my title back.

I did manage to get 5th overall, 2nd in North America, and 1st in my individual weight class.

I also was able to break the World Record in the 1 Hand Pinch Lift, and set all time PR’s on the 2.5″ Crusher and Stub.

Alas, the 2″ Vertical Bar, an event that has severely injured several people, proved to be a big limiting factor for me, and my overall placement suffered because of it, especially.

Despite the positives, I’m still rather disappointed because the ultimate goal is to win the Overall and take the Title of King Kong of Grip.

And at the same time, even though I’m disappointed, there are a ton of things to be happy about.

My Dad was there for yet another competition and got to see me break the record, and my wife and daughter got to be there for the first time to see me break a pinching record, too

I am blessed with a family that is extremely supportive, and that is a huge difference maker.

Also, got the chance to watch my partner, Luke have an awesome day on the platform, as well, setting multiple PR’s. If a couple more lifts went his way, his placing could have moved from 12th overall to 10th. That’s how close these multiple venue competitions can be!

In addition, my long time friend, Mike Rinderle put together a fantastic day after getting some pretty bad news about an injury he recently sustained, plus not having trained grip since last year’s King Kong.

My friend Chris Andrade, from Connecticut, also made the trip down for another King Kong, and he has no lost over 80lbs. It was his first time making the 93kg class. Watching his 11-year old son, “The Ace Cowboy” compete over the years has been awesome as well, and I’m looking forward to many more. I’m hoping Chris’s wife, Amber, feels better next time so she can join us in the chalk dust.

It was great seeing my friend, Joe Sullivan, compete for the first time as well. If he sticks with it, I think he will be force to be reckoned with. Dude is just so strong.

I really appreciate everyone who made some pretty long drives down to be at the competition. Brothers John and Peter Nickless both came down from the Syracuse area. It was John’s first time competing, I believe, and it was Peter’s first time competing since a nasty foot injury he had.

Big RT, Ryan Thomas also came down from the Syracuse area, and looked very confident on all the events. I think he could be very good at Grip if he concentrated on it, for sure.

And a big thanks to brothers, Mike & Jeff M, who are still new to grip, but made the trip from Rochester and got some good quality comp experience as well as some good work on various grip tools after the event.

I’ll be working on video editing throughout the week, and Allen Heineck, Riccardo Magni, and I will be recording a King Kong episode of This Week in Grip, tonight. So, if you’re not subscribed to my YouTube Channel, do so right now: Jedd Johnson on YouTube – so you don’t miss any of the awesome content that’s coming your way!

And if you competed in King Kong and would like to share the story of your day in the heat of competition, feel free to send me a write-up. It might get read on the King Kong show.

Thanks for the support, and all the best in your training.

Jedd

Tags: international king kong of grip, king kong, king kong of grip
Posted in Grip Contest, Grip Sport, grip strength, grip strength competition contest, King Kong of Grip | No Comments »

This Week in Grip – Episodes 24, 25, and 26

Monday, August 21st, 2017

This Week in Grip

It’s been a while since I posted the episode of This Week in Grip. Below, you’ll find episodes # 24, 25 and #26.

This Week in Grip – Episode #24

This Week in Grip – Episode #25

This Week in Grip – Episode #26

Thanks for watching and be sure to subscribe!

All the best in your training.

Jedd



Turn Your Hands Into Mighty Weapons
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Posted in block weights blob, feats of strength, Grip Sport, grip strength, grip strength competition contest, Grip Training, gripper training, hand strength | Comments Off on This Week in Grip – Episodes 24, 25, and 26

This Week in Grip – Episode 23 – 7/9/17

Thursday, July 13th, 2017

This Week in Grip

This week, Allen Heineck and I discuss the upcoming contest, South Jersey 4, what is sure to be the BIGGEST grip contest EVER on U.S. Soil.

Build Big Forearms with the Fierce Forearms Workout

Posted in feats of strength, Grip Contest, Grip Sport, grip strength, grip strength competition contest | 1 Comment »

This Week in Grip – Episode 22 – 7/3/17

Wednesday, July 5th, 2017

This Week in Grip

This Week in Grip – Episode 22 – 7/3/17

Want to Lever Bigger Hammers?
This Workout Shows You How to
Get it Done!

Tags: arm lifting, grip, grip contest, grip sport, grip strength, grip training, grip workout, gripsport
Posted in feats, feats of strength, feats of strength bending, Grip Contest, Grip Sport, grip strength, grip strength competition contest | 1 Comment »

This Week in Grip – Episode 21 – 6.25.17

Tuesday, June 27th, 2017

This Week in Grip

Who was the Strongest Strength Coach, Male & Female, at the Juniata Strength Clinic? Jedd Johnson and Allen Heineck reveal who had the sickest grip and who’s been pulling off the most amazing Grip Feats in this episode of This Week in Grip.

Take Your Training to the Next Level with the Diesel Files:

Tags: feats of strength, grip sport, grip strength, grip training, hand strength
Posted in feats, feats of strength, feats of strength bending, Grip Contest, Grip Sport, grip strength, grip strength competition contest | 252 Comments »

This Week in Grip – Episode 20 – 6/18/17

Tuesday, June 20th, 2017

This week, Allen Heineck and Jedd Johnson begin the process of catching up from the last 2 weeks. Plus, we interview a mystery guest. Can you guess who it is, before he comes on?

Want to Learn to Tear Decks of Cards?
Get the Best Resource on the Plant

Tags: feats of strength, grip, grip feats, grip sport, grip strength, grip training, oldtime strongman
Posted in feats of strength, Grip Contest, Grip Sport, grip strength, grip strength competition contest, Grip Training, hand strength, old strongman feats of strength | No Comments »

This Week in Grip – Episode 19 – 6/11/17

Monday, June 12th, 2017

This Week in Grip

This week, Allen Heineck and Jedd Johnson discuss what went down at the North American Grip Sport Championship, also known as Grip Nationals.

Feedback on this episode: “Great episode guys! couldn’t make it to nationals, but felt like I was there with Jedd’s recount.” – Tom Scibelli

Want to Compete in Grip?
Start Out By Getting Your Crush Grip Right
With the CRUSH DVD:

Tags: fets of strength, grip, grip sport, grip training, oldtime strongman
Posted in feats, feats of strength, Grip Contest, Grip Sport, grip strength, grip strength blob, grip strength competition contest, Grip Training, gripper training, hand strength | 2 Comments »

2017 North American Grip Sport Championship Footage

Wednesday, June 7th, 2017

2017 North American Grip Sport Championship

Grippers Right and Left Hands

Two Hands Pinch

Axle Deadlift

NAGS Championship Medley Runs

Aaron Corcorran Medley Run

Tanner Merkle Medley Run

Jedd Johnson Medley Run

Gil Goodman Medley Run

Post Contest Feating – Sahlaney Bell Combo Lifts

Jedd Johnson 180/172 Sahlaney Bell Attempt

Tanner Merkley 180/172 Sahlaney Bell Attempt

Jedd Johnson – First Try at 180/172 Sahlaney Bells

Eric Roussin 180/172 Sahlaney Bell Lift

Post Contest Feating – 180lb Sahlaney Bell + Fatman Blob

Jedd Johnson – 180lb Sahlaney Bell + Fatman Blob

Tanner Merkle – 180lb Sahlaney Bell + Fatman Blob

Jedd Johnson – 180lb Sahlaney Bell + Fatman Blob

Tags: grip, grip sport, grip strength, grip training, hand strength, NAGS, north american grip sport
Posted in feats of strength, Grip Contest, grip hand forearm training for sports, Grip Sport, grip strength, grip strength blob, grip strength competition contest, Grip Training | No Comments »

This Week in Grip – Episode 18 – 5/28/17

Tuesday, May 30th, 2017

This Week in Grip

This is a SPECIAL edition of the show today – episode 18, the day before a SPECIAL holiday here in the United States and around the world – Memorial Day, and the week before the North American Grip Sport Championship – Allen and I are ready to serve YOU and cover the LATEST in This Week in Grip!

How to Lift the Inch Dumbbell

Tags: feats of strength, grip, grip sport, grip strength, grip training, oldtime strongman
Posted in feats, feats of strength, feats of strength bending, Grip Contest, Grip Sport, grip strength, grip strength blob, grip strength competition contest, Grip Training, gripper training, hand strength | No Comments »

Pull-up Grip Progressions for Beginning Grip Trainees
2017 North American Grip Sport Championship Footage

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