Articles.
Training articles, programming notes, nutrition pieces, and archive posts from Andy Baker.
How to Build a Bigger Overhead Press (7-step Blueprint)
Everyone wants a bigger Overhead Press. Of course we all want a bigger Squat, Deadlift, and Bench Press too. But there just seems to be something uniquely…
2 Random Pieces of Training Wisdom
As I sat down at the computer this morning to knock out an article, it was just one of those days where I sat staring at the blinking cursor and not much…
"One All Out Set" vs Multiple Sets
So here we are again.....
A Fresh Look at Training Frequency For Power-Building
Optimal training frequency is a confusing topic for many. How often should I squat? How often should I deadlift? How often should I bench? The crux of the…
How to Cycle Training Volume (Example Programming Model)
One of the most difficult tasks for an intermediate or advanced lifter is the management of training volume.
The Necessity of Good Conditioning for Lifters (Part 1)
Conditioning is one of those topics that raises a lot of debate in the strength training world - particularly for those who are not pursuing some sort of…
3 or 4 day Texas Method? Why Not Both?
Many of you reading this article will already be familiar with a method of training organization known as the "Texas Method." Presented in Practical…
Time Saving Techniques for Assistance Work
Don't let the title of the article fool you. This doesn't necessarily mean that "saving time" through the use of these techniques makes these exercises any…
10 Stupid Simple Muscle Meals (50g protein, 50g carbs)
As you all know I'm all about simplicity.
Short Guide To Intermediate Programming
If there is one area in programming where most people get "stuck" it's as an early intermediate trainee. When I answer questions via email, answer…
High School Offseason Training - Do's and Don'ts
I originally wrote this article for the team at Train Heroic. I was asked to be a guest contributor for their blog which mainly deals with high school and…
Deadlift Variations - What, When, Where, How
Everybody loves variety right? Sometimes variety is great for training, sometimes it's the death of your training.
How to Train Without A Plan
Everyone needs a plan. 99% percent of us like and thrive under structure. This is true whether we are inside or outside of the gym. Whether it’s our…
Client Q&A #3: Heavy-Light-Medium Set Up & Gym Time Saving Tip
With the release of the Garage Gym Warrior program a few weeks ago, I've gotten several questions from those who are curious about the set up of the…
When "Planning Ahead" Kills Your Progress
In probably 90% of life situations, proper planning is a key element of success. Whether it's running a business, operating a family budget, taking a big…
Best Strength Program While Cutting Body Fat
This might be the most asked question I get on a weekly basis. If not, it’s definitely top 5. It goes something like this: “Andy – I want to keep getting…
Negative Attitudes, Bad Habits, False Beliefs
The Deadly Trifecta: Negative Attitudes, Bad Habits, and False Beliefs
Successful Transition from Novice to Intermediate Programming
Sometimes I call the time period between Novice and Intermediate level programming "the pit" due to the number of hard training athletes that often fall…
6 Reasons Why Your Training is Stuck (Part 2 of 2)
In part 2 of this series we'll take a look at 3 more reasons why people stagnate and regress in their training plans. Once again, in all 3 of these areas…
6 Reasons Why Your Training is STUCK (Part 1 of 2)
Ever been STUCK in your training program? Ever review your training log and realize that despite your best efforts, the last several months really hasn't…
Client Q&A #2: Coming Back After a Layoff
In the past week I've had a few recurring conversations with some clients at the gym regarding this topic. This happens pretty often in the summer months…
5 Tips for Training for a Strength Lifting Meet
Since we are 8-weeks out from the Starting Strength Fall Classic (as of this writing) I thought it might be a good time to address how I best prepare…
Avoiding "Dumb" Mistakes
The title for this article was so cheezy it's almost too painful to write, but I just couldn't pass it up. My hope is that if you rolled your eyes at the…
Optimal Training for Hypertrophy??
This is a really common question and a very common debate amongst trainees, coaches, and trainers and I'm not sure there is a definitive answer to every…