Picks of the Week – 7/19/15

Getting stronger, in shape, leaner, etc isn’t just about showing up to the gym and putting in the physical work.  The more informed you are, the better equipped you’ll be to reach your goals.  Here’s my recommended reading for the week.  Enjoy!

Does Calorie Counting Work? via Syatt Fitness

If you’ve cycled through multiple dieting strategies only to have them either work short-term or not at all, this article will help you understand why counting calories (or portion control at a minimum) is the best way to successfully manage your weight for the long-term.

MyoBrain HyperStrong via Harry Cintineo and Greg Farris

Many people are married to the idea that training for powerlifting or bodybuilding are mutually exclusive.  This ebook sheds light on why this isn’t the case and provides a way that you can train within both disciplines at the same time.  The accompanying 8-week program takes all of the guess work out of the programming and will help you get the best of both worlds.

Grow Like A New Lifter Again? via Stengtheory

This one is admittedly a monster in length and moderately heavy on the science, but it presents some great strategies and the rationale behind them for how to break through training plateaus if you’re at least moderately experienced in the gym.  Utilizing proper periodization including sufficient time away from the gym can aid in long-term strength and hypertrophy gains.  You’ll also learn the biology behind how muscles grow.

5 Kitchen Gadgets Every Lifter Should Own via Bonvec Strength

Managing your meal prep efficiently is extremely important if you’re trying to take fitness seriously.  The five gadgets that Tony covers in this post will make your life much easier.  Hint: cook in bulk and learn to love leftovers!

Squats vs. Hip Thrusts: Which is Better? via Bret Contreras

Squats have long been touted as the best exercise for gluteal development.  This article examines the comparative benefits of squats versus hip thrusts through EMG testing.  If you’re trying to get a firm backside, I highly suggest reading this and putting Bret’s recommendations into practice.

Have a great week!

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