I am currently taking on 3 new Coaching Clients.

Grip Task Force – Monthly

Monthly Payments of $169

Grip Task Force – Quarterly

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.

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

Monthly Payments of $169

Grip Task Force – Quarterly

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

Monthly Payments of $169

Grip Task Force – Quarterly

Quarterly Payments of $469

Expect an email back from me when you sign up…

Can’t wait to get started.

Jedd

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

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

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.

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:

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

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.

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!

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

Jedd Johnson’s Top Videos in 2017

For several years now, I’ve put together a list of my top videos of the year, based on number of views.

This isn’t always a “fair” comparison, because some videos have been up for a lot longer time than others.

This year, I’m including any videos I uploaded during December of 2016 in the countdown.

It’s interesting to see the topics that register into thee Top 20 every year.

One thing is clear, Fat Gripz are a very popular video topic on my channel. Part of that may have to do with the fact that I post those videos on Fat Gripz’s Facebook page, as well, so there’s more visibility. But there’s absolutely no doubt about it that there’s more awareness of Fat Gripz out there than there is Inch Dumbbell, Blob, and other much more common topics that I put up videos about.

Without further ado, here is the countdown, starting with number 20.

20. Warning: HARD Shoulder and Upper Back Training Method – 560

Although my biggest interest is Grip Strength, I also love all other forms of training and sometimes I put together some absolutely vicious combinations. Here’s one of them that I did this year for bigger shoulders and upper back.

19. Inch Hand-to-Hand Transfer – My First Time Ever – Right to Left – 590

Transferring the Inch Dumbbell from one hand to another is a feat that only a “handful” of people have done. I know that Adam Glass and Andrew Durniat have pulled it off, but can’t remember who else (if you know of anyone, please let me know). In 2018, I’d like to manage passing it from right to left and back to the right, or vice versa, as I don’t think anyone else has done that.

18. IronMind Stacker Training – 30lbs | Joe Sullivan – 601

Shortly after the New Year, Joe Sullivan came down for a training session. He brought several of his cool griplements, including the IronMind Stacker, that I don’t think I ad ever seen before.

17. A Version of Shrugs You’ve Never Done Before – 641

I tried these once this year, and instantly enjoyed them. Aside from their ability to build up the yoke, they also promote stability throughout the shoulder as well as the core.

16. This Week in Grip – Episode 2 – 1/22/17 – 660

This year, I finally was able to do two things I’ve wanted to do for a while: (1) Resurrect my old Grip Strength show/podcast, and (2) Bring more exposure to the great things going on in Grip Sport. Both became a reality when friend and log-time member of The Grip Authority, Allen Heineck. Also, later on this year, we brought Riccardo Magni aboard, as well, after having him on as a guest.

15. How to Build Grip Strength: Beginner Thick Bar Training | Awake and Alive – 669

I got invited to do a guest blog post this year – the first one I’ve done in a while, and all the videos from that post registered in this year’s Top 20.

14. Arm Wrestling Bench Curls – 675

There’s no denying the popularity of arm wrestling. I only put up a couple arm wrestling videos all year long, but they ended up in the countdown, and I didn’t even push them that hard.

13. How to Build Grip Strength: Beginner Grip Training with Modified Pullups | Awake and Alive – 701

Here’s another one from that guest post I mentioned before.

12. First Time Trying Pinch Pull-ups – 722

This was from the near beginning of the year. I think people were shocked that I was able to do these, but honestly, I think anyone could do these on this tool, as it rotates forward and takes a lot of pressure off the thumbs. I think the feat is over-rated, myself.

11. Jedd Johnson #4 Silver Bullet World Record 15.32 Seconds – 801

This is one I was definitely proud of. Hard to believe it has been almost ayear already since this record went down.

10. What’s Better? Gripper Negatives, or Holds? 972

This is a common question I get, and sometimes people are surprised by the answer I give.

9. How to Train for Grip Strength: Beginner Gripper Training Information | Awake and Alive – 1091

Look at that, another one from the guest post I did. Maybe I should do more of these?

8. Heavy Sledgehammer Levers | Joe Sullivan – 1100

Joe Sullivan is on a tear with sledgehammers. This is nothing compared to where he’s at now.

7. How to Train for Grip Strength: Plate Pinch for Beginner Grip Training | Awake and Alive – 1159

Let’s go over some plate pinching basics, brotherrrr!

6. This Week in Grip – Episode 1 – 1.15.17 – 1185

Here’s the very first episode of This Week in Grip, in case you’ve never heard it. Be sure to check it out.

5. How to Train for Grip Strength: Beginner Grip Training with Hammers | Awake and Alive

Now it’s time to build some serious wrist strength! Get your hammers out and start using them.

4. Training for Thicker Wrists and Forearms | Cooking with Napalm – 1317

In this video, I cover some tips on building bigger forearms.

3. First Time Ever – Double Old School York 45’s Pinch – 3840

Probably the highlight of my training year, I was finally able to perform the Double Old School York 45lb Plate Pinch.

2. Will Grip Training Build Big Forearms? – 4996

I get this question all the time, and took some time to answer it last year for my YouTube Clan.

1. Should I Get Regular Fat Gripz or Extremes? – 7202

Fat Gripz are so popular! I always seem to get a lot of views on videos about Fat Gripz. I’m thinking of doing more videos on Fat Gripz, showing training tips, some of my favorite drills, etc, because I think a LOT more people have access to Fat Gripz than other thick bar handles. Hopefully, if I do this, it will help bring more people into Grip Sport.

The Countdown is OVER, brotherrrr. Stay tuned for more videos coming your way soon.

Also, if there’s anything you’d like to see me cover on my YouTube Channel in 2018, please feel free to leave a comment below.

All the best in your training.

Jedd

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

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

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

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!

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:

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

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

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

Beginner Grip Training Series

The last few weeks, I’ve posted many installments in the Beginner Grip Training Series, including Beginner Pinch Grip Training, Beginner Gripper Training, Beginner Thick Bar Training in Any Gym, and Beginner Wrist Training with Sledge Hammers. Hopefully, you’ve been trying these methods out a bit and you’re ready to move on!

Now, it’s time to progress a little bit further by incorporating grip-intensive training into training that emphasizes more of your body. Pull-up training is great for this, as we move away from Grip Isolation (from the 4 previous videos, to Grip Integration.

Beginner Grip Training: Modified Pull-up Training

I hope you have enjoyed this series. If you try out what I’ve shown you, you’ll be well on your way toward improving your grip strength.

If you’re looking for more information on how to build your grip strength, there’s no better resource than my instructional site, TheGripAuthority.com.

When you join me at The Grip Authority, you’ll have 3 payment options: Monthly ($17), Annually ($169 – 2 months free), and Lifetime ($297).

Thanks and all the best in your training.

Jedd

This Week in Grip

Allen Heineck and I talk about the latest events in Grip Sport, Grip Training, Grip Strength, Hand Strength, Modern Day Oldtime Strongman, and other Feats of Strength.

Beginner Grip Training: Basic Thick Bar Work

This is the latest installment in my Beginner Grip Training series. Up to this point, I’ve already touched on Plate Pinch Grip Training, and Gripper Training, but did you know that even if you don’t have a single piece of grip strength training equipment, you’ve got perfect access to in just about ANY gym around?

It’s true – you can work Thick Bar in your next workout, and this video shows you how.

Thick Bar Training in Any Gym

What questions do you have about Grip Training, Thick Bar Work, etc? Leave a comment below – I’d love to hear from you.

All the best in your training,

Jedd

Beginner Gripper Training

I’m posting a series of grip training videos for beginner grip guys and gals, here: Beginner Pinch Grip Training. I’ve already posted beginner pinch grip training, and today, I’m sharing beginner gripper training.

Gripper Training is a way to build and measure how much CRUSHING force you have in your hands. Grippers are a lot of fun to train and close, and can be quite addicting!

Take note, there are a lot of things to know about gripper training technique, if you decide you want to go for certification, if you want to close the biggest grippers possible in your training, or if you ever decide to compete.

If you’re ready to take the jump into Gripper Training, then you want my video, CRUSH – Total Gripper Domination. Available as both a digital online DVD and a hare copy video, it will cover everything you need to know about gripper technique and the drills that will help you fully develop your crush.

All the best in your training.

Jedd

In October of 2016, I experienced the worst back injury of my life. It was then that I decided that as soon as my back was ready again, I would make this feat my primary focus, and possibly become the first person to do it.

I first pinched one pair of Old School York Deep Dish Plates in 2013, and since then I trained it sporadically, mainly during periods when I wasn’t training for contests and certifications.

Last week, on Tuesday, I was sure I was going to pull this feat off. So much so, I actually wrote down on a piece of paper that I would do it on that night. It ended up being the first time I ever broke both sets off the floor, which gave me some great mental momentum. On my 5th or 6th attempt, I nearly got them to lockout. Unfortunately, I couldn’t quite pull them all the way, as the set in my left hand slipped out about 6 inches before Lockout.

Finally, this past Tuesday, on 3/29/17, I focused in hard, took my time warming up and getting everything right, and was successful on my 2nd or 3rd attempt.

I waited to hear confirmation from Richard Sorin that he hadn’t heard of anyone else doing it yet, especially Chad Woodall, who I know was extremely close in 2011 at Summer Strong, and who has made other trips in recent years. Once Richard confirmed, I went ahead and uploaded the video.

After years of trying, and failing literally hundreds of times, this feat is in the books.

Thanks and all the best in your training.

Jedd

This Week in Grip – Episode 7

This Week in Grip Podcast

I’ve been wanting to hold a rundown show about Grip Sport for years, and I’ve finally hooked up with Allen Heineck to start doing it.

On 1/15/17, we did our first episode, and over the weekend, we did our second. I’ve got them both posted below, so be sure to check them out!

This Week in Grip Episode #1 – 1/15/17

This Week in Grip Episode #2 – 1/22/17

What were the Top 5 Feats of Grip Strength from 2016, in your opinion?

Weigh in with your vote in the comments below!

All the best in your training.

Jedd

Every year, it has been a tradition to post up on the site the Top 20 Videos from the past year, on my YouTube Channel.

Starting today, I’ll post 5 videos, and put up 5 more every day or so.

I noticed a few patterns in the countdown this year:

• Feats and Training videos fell short of the list, for the most part. I guess I need to try and spice up my videos a bit to make them more popular.
• Q&A Videos and Cook with Napalm Videos seem very popular. They make up close to half, if not more of the countdown.
• Arm Training Videos are very popular. There are several vids that feature arm training lifts, feats, and tests, and make up a good percentage of the countdown.
• Gripmas 2015 videos were extremely popular. Many of the clips and highlights from Gripmas 2015 got 4-digit views this year.
• Videos featuring other lifters surge in popularity. You’ll see videos from many other lifters on this countdown, including my partner, Luke, as well as Juha Harju, famoust gripper guy, Paul Knight, and Kody Burns, who set a new world record in the Two Hands Pinch at Gripmas.

I hope you enjoy the countdown, and the information can help you finish out the year on a strong note and make 2017 your strongest year ever.

Top 20 Videos – 2016

20. Dude Love Crossover Double Blob Lift – 709

This is one of the few feat videos on the Top 20 List, and I think it is the only time this feat has ever been done. It is named after Dude Love, a wrestler from the late 90’s WWF, who would do the criss-cross hands boogie dance, or whatever it’s called. This is a feat that feels very weird, and increases the difficulty quite a bit. Try it out and let me know what you think.

19. Meeting Juha and Arto for the First Time – Living Legends – 708

This is probably my favorite video on the countdown. It meant so much to me to be able to meet Juha and compete with him at the Living Legends competition. It’s a day I’ll never forget. You’ll see Juha later on in the countdown as well.

18. Strongman Training – Log and Giant Dumbbell Press – 709

I didn’t take the time to do much training outside this year, and the times I did, I didn’t shoot much video, but this clip is one of the few videos I put up this year from my outside training, and it registered in the Top 20. This one features the Giant Dumbbell that we plan to sell through the store in the New Year. It’s shot-loadable, and is a Beast to train with. What an awesome time!

17. Paul Knight – GHP#7 x 10 Reps – 739

We made several trips to Paul Knight’s this year, and I think we finally started to rub off on him, because he’s been dabbling in Grip again. In this video, which I was lucky to snag, he grabs a GHP #7 and casually reps it out for a set of 10. Unreal.

16. Juha Harju – Old School York 45’s Pinch – 765

Leading up to Living Legends, I asked Juha if he wanted me to bring anything with me for him to try that he didn’t have in his gym. His only request was the Old School York 45-lb Plates. He put together a lengthy cycle of training in preparation for his encounter with them, and was indeed successful in pinch-lifting them, becoming only the 4th or 5th person ever to do so.

15. Sick Muscle Building Finisher for Back and Triceps – 775

On Fridays, my adult guys train with me, and we usually do a Yoke training workout consisting of Back, Triceps and Traps. We’ve also begun adding Neck Training in there, as well. I don’t generally film too much of these workouts, because we pack a LOT of volume into just 60 minutes, and I don’t like monkeying with the camera, but this particular finisher ended up being pretty intense, so I went ahead and set up the camera.

14. 100lb Dumbbell Hammer Curls – STRICT!!! – 847

It’s pretty clear that YouTube viewers like Arm Training videos, because there’s a lot of them on the Top 20 Countdown this year. Here, I tried out 100lb Hammer Curls. I originally planned on emphasizing this movement during August of Arms this year, but I ended up getting away from it and mainly sticking to the programming. I’d like to focus on it at some point, though.

13. Table Top Curl – 127lbs – Luke Raymond – 1085

With this video, my lifting partner, Luke Raymond, breaks into the countdown. Luke has really put forth a big push in the world of arm wrestling over the last year or so, and it’s become clear that he’s well gifted, both by his winning performance at WAL Amateur Nationals this year, and by the numbers he puts up on the gym.

12. 3 Tips to Fix Elbow Pain – Tennis Elbow – 1175

What do you do when a guy like Devin Gage asks you to help out his gym members with some methods to fix elbow pain? You get your butt downstairs and shoot a video – that’s what! In a way, it kind of sucks that this video is in my Top 20, because it means that too many people are still dealing with elbow pain at the gym. If you’ve been suffering with elbow pain, be sure to check this video out.

11. Gripmas 2015 – Jedd Johnson Medley – 1243

I included the videos from December 2015 in the countdown, because they wouldn’t have qualified for the countdown last year, and there were many clips from the Gripmas Carol contest that ranked in the Top 20. The first one is my Medley run. I was able to seal the victory on the overall contest with this run, as I finished first in this individual event. It breaks my heart that I had to miss Gripmas 2016, due to dealing with my crappy back injury.

10. R.I.P. Vasily Alexeev – Cooking with Napalm – 1357

I have to admit, Clickbait on Facebook got me for this one. I saw a news headline that Vasily Alexeev has died earlier this year, and I totally forgot that he actually died a few years back, until it was pointed out to me by a YouTube viewer. Apparently, many people didn’t realize this that watched the video, because there were a lot of comments saluting him from viewers. Either way, I was able to put out a bit of dedication video and talk about a key time in my life where I began transitioning from just muscle building training to strength training.

9. Kettlebell Swings – Russian or American – What’s Better? – 1479

Kettlebell training is extremely popular, and even though it’s been several years since I had an active Kettlebell Certification, I still get questions about Kettlebell Training. For this video, I was asked by a viewer if I preferred the Russian or the American style of Kettlebell Swing.

8. Ivanko Super Gripper – Gripmas 2015 – Various Competitors – 1518

Another video from Gripmas 2015, this one shows several attempts on the Ivanko Super Gripper event. The gripper had a flash light mounted on it, and the objective was to close the handles so that the light turned on. As the handles moved close enough together, the power button would be depressed, you’d hear a click, and the light would turn on. It had to go on though – if it just bumped the button, or didn’t strike it hard enough to turn the light on, it was considered a miss.

7. The Wrist Wrench vs The Rolling Thunder – 1655

In the world of Grip Sport, probably the most well-known thick bar training handle is the Rolling Thunder from IronMind. However, in recent years, many more rolling handles have shown up on the market. One of them, the Wrist Wrench, is marketed primarily to Arm Wrestlers for developing wrist strength and finger pressure. In this video, I talk about it’s application to Grip enthusiasts, and especially for training to lift the Inch Dumbbell.

6. Kody Burns | New World Record 274.85lbs | Two Hands Pinch – 1702

Another highlight from Gripmas 2015, in the video below, Kody Burns sets a new all-time World Record in the Two Hands Pinch Lift with nearly 275lbs.

5. Arm Wrestling Training | The Mighty Hand Trainer from Stronger Grip – 2557

There’s no doubting the rise in popularity of Arm Wrestling, ever since the show, “Game of Arms,” came out. The last couple of years, many of my top videos have had to do with Arm Wrestling. This one shows Luke working with one of the arm wrestling tools that Ryan Pitts of Stronger Grip puts out, the Mighty Hand Trainer. This kind of training, a cumbersome object attached to a band, is a lot of fun. You get a good grip stimulus, along with plenty of forearm and upper arm work. Very fun stuff.

4. Gripmas 2015 – Trying 2x25kg Plate Pinch – 2617

One of the most difficult plate pinching feat involving just 2 plates is the 2x25kg plate pinch. Juha Harju was the first to do it, then Bob Sundin did it, and at Gripmas Kody Burns did it. Below, you’ll see he pinches them and then holds them, braced against his leg. Jake Sahlany and I tried them as well, and got decent breaks, but the pull to lockout just wasn’t happening for me, as my hands were tired and my thumbs were very irritated already.

3. Is Wrist Roller a Waste of Time – 2680

I ended up addressing a couple of controversial topics this year, and this is the first one to appear on the countdown. I’ve had lots of people push back on this, but I stand firm on my stance that the Wrist Roller, specifically the kind where you stand there and hold the wrist roller out away from you, is a complete waste of time for building grip strength, plus it can be very hard on the shoulders and elbows. It’s a much better idea to use a rack supported wrist roller, where you’re not limited by how much weight your arms can hold up. In fact, a rack supported writ roller allows you to roll well over 100lbs, which is enough weight to produce suitable grip strength adaptations, and not just pumping the forearm full of blood with light weights.

2. What is the Best Home Gym Flooring? | Save Money on Home Gym – 5988

It’s disappointing to me when I hear of people setting up their home gym, and they spend so much money on rubber matting marketed by fitness companies. In so many cases, the “fitness” rubber matting is severely over-priced, when in reality, horse/cow stall mats are practically the same exact thing, they work just as well, and they are a fraction of the price. I also talk about the underlying layers of wood that set on the floor to protect the concrete.

1. Why Grippers Are a Waste of Time – 15168

And we wrap up the countdown this year with my

There you go – the Top 20 Videos is complete. I want to thank each and every one of you for watching my videos throughout the year, and for following the countdown over the last week or so.

What was your favorite video on the channel this year? Post in the comments below.

All the best in your training.

Jedd

Top 20 Videos from 2015
Top 20 Videos from 2014
Top 10 Videos from 2013 – Just shy of the Top 10 (11-15)
Top 10 Videos from 2013 (6-10)
Top 20 Videos from 2013 (1-5)
Top 10 Videos from 2012
Top 10 Videos from 2011 (10-6)
Top 10 Videos from 2011 (5-1)

       

At the Juniata College Strength Clinic, I was recently asked about the incidence of Tommy John surgery with pitchers and other position players. Specifically, they wanted to know if Grip Strength could be a factor in the equation.

Could a lack of grip strength be a contributor to the increases in UCL tears and the need for Tommy John Surgery?

I dig into this topic in the video below:

Tommy John Surgery and Grip Strength for Baseball Players

Want to bulletproof your elbows? Get the best resource in the world to develop grip strength for baseball players:

It’s the beginning of a brand new week and I’ve got an announcement I’m happy to be FINALLY making.

The DVD Sets of the Basics of Grip Training and Strongmanism Seminar ARE READY!

This seminar took place at the end of March, and the attendees had GREAT things to say about it.

This is a 2-Disk DVD Set covering the Fundamentals of Grip Training and performing Strongman Feats.

Here’s how the seminar flowed, and how the DVD set goes:

DVD #1

1. Welcome

Just a quick meet-and-greet where we do introductions and I cover how I got into Grip Training and Feats of Strength.

2. Warm-up (03:24)

I knew the rides in to the seminar would be pretty long, and the last thing the guys wanted to do was just sit there, so the first thing we covered was the importance of proper warm-up, and I put the guys through the exact Warm-up protocol I go through each training session.

If you’re not Warming Up prior to your Grip Training sessions, you’re leaving strength on the table!

In my experience 2 out of 3 lifters do NOTHING before hitting grippers, besides doing a few reps of light grippers.

That’s a surefire way to not only never progress in your training, but how to GET HURT, as well.

Start implementing this routine ASAP to start instantly seeing benefits.

3. Grippers (23:06)

When you watch the Warm-up section, I encourage you to jump right down on the floor and go through it yourself. Then, grab a gripper and enjoy the Gripper section.

This section covers the importance of the Gripper Set. If you don’t have your set technique established, no drill will be able to get you where you want to be with your Gripper Training.

You’ll want to have a gripper there with you when you go through this section, so you can make sure you’re doing everything correctly with your gripper placement.

Before this section wraps up, you’ll also get to see what I consider the best gripper training drills. Most of these I do every single week, because I know how big of an impact they’ve had.

4. Pinch (1:04:54)

Now it’s time to focus on my bread and butter – Pinch Grip! Easily my favorite form of training, I do more of this than anything else.

In this section of the Disk, we talk about all the different types of Pinch Grip Training, and how the techniques for each type is similar and different from the others.

You’ll also see he nuances of how to place your thumb and hand on what you’re trying to pinch. One size DOES NOT fit all and you HAVE to make subtle adjustments depending on what you’re trying to Pinch.

DISK #2

1. Thick Bar

If there is any form of Grip Training that is a MUST for a true Strongman, it is Thick Bar, and we cover the topic in detail in this section.

From the use of Axles, to Fat Grip instant thick bar handles, to the most challenging types of thick-handled dumbbells like the Inch and the Death Grip Bells, you’re gonna see a host of ways to train Thick Bar for open hand strength.

You might be surprised how similar the techniques are between some of the Pinch Grip training methods and Thick Bar lifts, but when you learn about the importance of the thumb adductor pollicis muscles, it will all make sense.

2. Hub Q&A (32:01)

Before we branched out into Strongman Feats, we did one last Q&A session on Hub Style training.

Hub training is one of the few types of Grip Training where smaller hands are an advantage, believe it or not.

3. Feats of Strength (38:18)

In this section, you’ll see a little primer that I covered regarding something that many new Strongman Featists aren’t familiar with – Tension.

Feats of Strength are all about Creating and Managing Tension. Until you know how to use tension to your advantage basic feats like Card Tearing, Nail Bending, will give you trouble. But, once you master tension, the more complex feats like straightening Horseshoes come more within your reach.

4. Card Tearing (49:26)

The first Strongman Feat we jumped into was Card Tearing, and for good reason, too.

Card Tearing is the perfect feat to learn the production and management of tension.

With the techniques you’ll learn in this section, you’ll be ready to take your first steps as a strongman. You’re gonna love what it feels like to destroy a deck of poker cards!

5. Steel Bending (1:05:20)

My products have produced more certified Red Nail Benders than any other source out there, and with the info included in this section, that number is going to go up once again.

Steel Bending is easily the most addictive type of strength feat out there. There is something about how it feels when steel buckles under your might.

You get hooked on it, and before you know it, you want more and more. This portion of the video will show you how to do it the right way to see great progress and stay injury free.

6. Programming (1:23:04)

The biggest challenges about Grip Training and Feats of Strength isn’t how to get started or understanding technique. I’ve got all that covered for you.

The hardest thing is actually how to mesh Grip and Feats with the rest of your training. In this section I lay out some ways you can go about doing this the best way possible, without disrupting the rest of the training your doing and the goals you’re working on.

7. Soft Tissue (1:37:46)

As a special bonus, one of the attendees of the seminar, Dr. Jim Wagner, put us through a quick demo of some instruments he uses with his clients, called Hawk Grips.

We captured everything on video, and now you’ll get to see exactly what Dr. Jim does with his clients to get them out of pain and recovered from injuries and surgeries.

In total, this 2-Disk DVD Set is almost 4 hours of awesome content.

Order Your Copy TODAY => Basics of Grip Training and Strongmanism DVD

All the best in your training.

Jedd

Learned More in 5 Hours Than the Last 5 Years!

“I got to spend the day at a seminar with the grip legend himself, Jedd Johnson. I learned more in 5 hours than I did in the last five years. It was an awesome day and Jedd is one of the nicest guys you could meet! I’ll be seeing you again Brother, hopefully at the next contest!”

Chris Fritz

One of the Most Informational Courses I Have Taken!

Jedd Johnson CSCS is truly a national leader in the sport of Grip and Strongman competition!

Jim Wagner OTD, OTR/L, CHT, CPAM, CSCS
Doctor of Occupational Therapy
Certified Hand Therapist
Certified Strength and Conditions Specialist

I was honored to be chosen to be this year’s guest speaker at the Opening Day ceremonies for the Towanda Little League.

Aside from giving a little bit of advice on baseball here and there, the points I tried to get across were:

(1) Baseball is about making memories you’ll remember the rest of your life.

(2) Baseball is about working hard and developing habits that will last you a lifetime.

(3) Baseball is about family, and we should recognize the efforts people make in our lives.

I hope you enjoy the speech, and if you’re looking for a motivational speaker for a get-together you have going on, or a strongman for your next party or celebration, please feel free to look me up.

All the best in your training.

Jedd

Grippers – Are You Wasting Your Time?

In many of my videos and DVD’s, I have said that Gripper Training is a waste of time.

This is a statement that catches many people by surprise when they hear me say it, since I do Gripper Training on a regular basis.

After about the 50th time getting asked what I mean by this, I decided to put together a quick video to explain.

Why Grippers are a Waste of Time

Want the BEST Grip Training Methods for MMA?
Then You Want Grip Training for MMA Athletes:

As you can see, sometimes Grippers ARE a Waste of Your Time.

Naturally, if your objective is to close big grippers just for the sake of closing big grippers, then you NEED to train grippers, and you need to train them the right way.

If you want to maximize your Gripper Training, then you need these resources:

CRUSH – Total Gripper Domination: The Video Encyclopedia of Gripper Training Technique and Crushing Strength Development. If your gripper technique is lacking, there’s no drill that will help you get to your ultimate gripper goal. This video will make sure you’re doing everything right.

Cadence Based Training: This is an 8-week Gripper Training program that works by helping you strengthen the entire range of motion of the gripper sweep. The drills in the CBT program will help you strengthen your set, improve your sweep, and ensure that you’re strong enough to finish off your goal gripper.

My hope is that the information in this post will help you get the best results from your training, and maximize your training time as well as possible.

Thanks and all the best in your training.

Jedd

Man what an awesome time last week, DIESELS.

As you know, on Thursday, I help the Basics of Grip and Strongmanism seminar.

Here’s a pic, with Dr. Jim Wagner on the left, me, and Chris Fritz on the right.

I got this message posted on my wall on Facebook, after the event:

“I got to spend the day at a seminar with the grip legend himself,
Jedd Johnson. I learned more in 5 hours than I did in the last
five years. It was an awesome day and Jedd is one of the nicest
guys you could meet! I’ll be seeing you again Brother, hopefully
at the next contest!”
Chris Fritz

Here’s how the day’s content rolled out:

9:00AM Start, meet and greet

Warm-up
General to specific
– General Full Body: Mobility / Activation / Light Stretching
– Move to Weights
– Move to Specific
Magic Formula for Success

Grippers
Technique
– Placement
– Gripper Angle
– Wrist Angle
– Tension
– Set to Close
– Skin Stretch
– Hit
– Thumb Strike
– Roll the Dice
High Impact Drills
Other Considerations

Pinching
Technique
Chalking Considerations
Plate Pinching
Block Weights
Odd Objects
Euro Pinch
High Impact Drills

Thick Bar and other Open Hand Training
What is Open Hand Training? Is Thick Bar “Support Grip”
Support Specificity
Technique
High Impact Drills

Intro to Feats
Tension
Beginner Conditioning

Card Tearing

Steel Bending

Programming
Individual Based
Setting up YOUR Program
Formulating Workouts – Think Energy Economy
Specificity of Grip Training

Injury Prevention & Recovery Methods

2:00 / 2:30PM Close

Man, I’ll tell you what, I absolutely love talking GRIP with people.

As an added bonus, before we called it a day, Dr. Jim Wagner got out his Hawk Grips, a special set of soft tissue massaging devices, and worked on us a little bit.

We got EVERYTHING on film, and I’ve already begun editing the footage, and will be making it available on DVD.

If you want to be the first to add this information to your library, add your information to the box below:

It will be ready as absolutely fast as I can get through all 5 hours!

In the meantime, Make it a Great Week.

All the best in your training.

Jedd

P.S. Sign up for notification as soon as this seminar becomes available.

I’ve got a sale going on right now, on my DVD, “How to Lift the Inch Dumbbell.”

Grab it today and you’ll save yourself $20, and you’ll be instantly closer to lifting what was once considered “the unliftable dumbbell.

The Thomas Inch Replica Dumbbell, at 172lbs, with a nearly 2.5-inch handle, is a massive construction of cast iron that has tormented grip enthusiasts for too long.

This DVD gives you the weapons you need to do battle with the Inch.

From technique and grip application know-how, to training drills and programming expertise, the next time you face the Inch Dumbbell, you can rest assured that you will be ready.

Order Your Copy

^^ Click the Image Above ^^

You’ve struggled with the Inch Dumbbell long enough.

It’s time to ram your sword into the heart of the Inch Dumbbell, right now.

Grab this DVD today, and get the knowledge you need to take the Inch Dumbbell down, and conquer one of the most widely known feats of grip strength in the world today.

All the best in your training,

Jedd

My shirt guy and I re-worked an old tee shirt design just in time for Halloween.

There’s a special price on these, just $15 plus shipping.

Youth sizes are available – be sure to grab one for your youngster(s) at home. Each shirt is made of a mesh material, as well.

Youth sizes are available!

Get your order in today and they will be shipped out as soon as possible.

Thanks and all the best in your training.

Jedd

Grip Training with the “Chunk”

The Chunk

My gym is filled to the brim with cool grip training gear I’ve accumulated over the years.

That’s what happens when you collect stuff for over 10 years!

Every so often, I like to dig one of the hidden gems out of the corner, dust it off, and give it a few pulls.

Recently, we pulled out the “Chunk.” This one isn’t really “new” to me, as I’ve had it since 2006, but I don’t think I’ve ever put anything out in the public about it until now. So, in that sense, I guess you could say it’s new…

The Chunk Block Weight

The Chunk is a 66-lb steel or iron drop, or scrap piece, essentially a piece that was cut off and never used. The Chunk is what’s considered a Block Weight. Even though Block Weights are usually one of the heads of a dumbbell, they can be any block-shaped implement that you lift with an open handed pinch grip.

Block Weights can be very beneficial for your training. They work the thumb very hard, and they make the entire lower arm work together in order to perform your lifts.

Block Weight Training is a great form of grip training to add into your routine.

Block Weights develop hand and grip strength in a general sense, which means it has the potential to improve strength in order types of grip training, and will carry over to other types of lifting because you’ll be stronger overall from doing Block Weight Training.

Here’s a few videos where we lift the Chunk and try some cool variations by adding weight to it…

Intro to the Chunk

Just taking a look at the Chunk to see its weight and features such as edges and surfaces.

Protected Training on the Chunk

With the sharp edges the Chunk has, we tried protecting our skin with a suede bending wrap and lifting it.

Throwing Chains on the Chunk

Adding chains makes it tougher to complete the lift because it gets heavier, the higher you pull it. It’s an excellent way to train your grip, borrowed from the world of Powerlifting (Louie Simmons introduced me to the concept).

Major Take-aways from Today’s Post

Here’s a few things to remember from today’s post for your training.

• Block Weights are beneficial because they target the thumb (often neglected in training) and develop the entire lower arm in a general sense.
• Block Weights come in nearly endless shapes and sizes and can be used for many different types of lifts.
• Don’t be afraid to pull from other established training protocols and try the concepts in your grip training in order to spice things up a bit and keep yourself progressing. Naturally, do so safely!

If you’d like to get started with Block Weight Training, but don’t know where to begin, then grab my Block Weight Training DVD today. It also comes in digital format so you don’t have to mess with shipping.

All the best in your training.

Jedd

Discover New Levels of Hand Strength with Block Weight Training

The trip to the Arnold Classic was a ton of fun this year, probably the best time I’ve ever had there when I wasn’t competing.

Here’s some of the footage I got from the trip.

Con-Crete Challenge

The one main place we wanted to be sure to hit was the Promera Booth so we could take the Con-Crete Challenge. Run by our new friend, James Stoppani, Sr, I’ve been hearing about this for over a year now and wanted to try it out.

First up was the Hub Lift challenge. They attach Hub Grips to Slater Stones and you must lift them to Lockout. I suck at Hubs, but Luke did really well.

Second, was the Fat Gripz row challenge. The guys have to Row a Vertical Bar with a Fat Gripz Extreme on it for as many reps as possible. I took this event. Nobody could touch my 67 reps, brotherrrr.

Lastly, there was a hold for time with 135lbs gripping onto Fat Gripz Extremes. The record was like 1:26. I was close, but the flexed position of my wrist was cutting off a nerve in my hand and it was burning like crazy, so I had to drop the bar at like 1:15. If not for that burning, I would have destroyed the record. Oh well, live to Grip another day.

Training at Durniat Strength

We got an awesome training session in at Durniat Strength on Friday. This first video shows you all kinds of stuff that we did. What a blast!

Luke also hit this awesome Concentric-Only 100-lb Preacher Curl. I tried it and couldn’t budge it. This dude is no joke, bro.

There you have it, some of the best footage from the Arnold 2015. It was an awesome time. I got to meet tons of people. Once again, I can’t wait until next year.

Finish the week strong, brother.

Jedd

Thomas Inch was a performing strongman who lived during the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. He is most well known for his challenge dumbbell, an all-one-piece, cast-iron dumbbell with a nearly 2.5-inch handle, weighing 172-lbs.

To this day, replicas of what is now know as the Inch Dumbbell, remain one of the biggest challenge items in Grip.

After a short break from Inch Dumbbell Training, due to very sore shoulders that were causing pain every time I tried pulling something off the floor, I have resumed my Inch Dumbbell Training.

The Inch is never a simple feat for me. It is always something I need to have my mind right for. But I am working hard to make it easier all the time.

Here are some of the Inch Dumbbell feats I have tried and attained in recent training:

Inch Dumbbell + 55-lb Anvil

The Robo Blob is a Fatman Blob replica machined from a raw steel billet. It is pretty tough for me to lift, but not nearly as tough as some of my other Blobs, especially the Handle Blob.

Inch Dumbbell + Half 115lb Block Weight

This half 115lb Hex head has been around for a long time. Its sides actually slope out every so slightly, amking it a bit tougher than some other straight-sided blocks.

Inch Dumbbell Rows

These lifts all took place inside of one workout. I am trying to hit the Inch as many times as possible throughout the week. The idea is to make lifting it feel easier and easier and easier.

It’s time “Lifting the Inch” is no longer up on such a high pedestal.

All the best in your training.

Jedd

Are You Training to Lift the Inch Dumbbell? This DVD Will Help You:

Grip Strength for Linemen

Did you know that a Lack of Grip Strength is heavily to blame for Joe Theisman’s career ending due to a blind tackle by Lawrence Taylor?

Don Warren, Tight End for the Washington Redskins, was the man with the assignment to keep Taylor at bay on that one, fateful play.

Had he been able to get a secure grip at the line of scrimmage, things could have gone much differently for Theisman,
but because Warren did not secure his grip in “the Fit,” Taylor came crashing down on the QB, and Theisman’s hopes for a lengthy career came crashing down as well.

This is one of the most often replayed video clips in sports, because it resulted in such a horrible injury.

Naturally, injuries like this don’t happen every time a Lineman or Tight End can’t control their opponent on the other team.

But until Grip Training is taken as seriously as footwork drills and conditioning in football, you can bet that many more Line Backers will be busting through the line, sacking Quarterbacks, and making tackles behind the line of scrimmage.

For the coaches and players who are ready to make a difference in the control they and their linemen have on the field, I present my latest product, Grip Strength Training for Linemen.

The Grip Strength Training for Linemen ebook is available on Kindle for $9.99.

Training your Grip seriously is NOT just for Grip Enthusiasts looking to perform feats of strength or compete in contests.

Grip is serious for ALL Athletes.

Football players and Coaches – you can begin training your grip THE RIGHT WAY with this ebook: Grip Strength Training for Linemen

All the best in your training,

Jedd