GAMESPEED

Berimbolos, Whizzers, El Dorado and Whatnots: Things that keep Jory Malone up at night.

1.) Jory can you tell us a little about yourself and your background?

I wear many hats that don’t match my outfits but first and foremost I’d say I’m most recognized as a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) coach and athlete. That’s my passion. It’s a right brain/left brain, health, art and obsessive lifestyle all rolled up in one, no pun intended. I’ve spent the better part of my life as a professional MMA and BJJ fighter with a shift to coaching over the last several years.

2.) Can you tell us about your various martial-art schools and any special projects that you have going on?

We have a lot going on. We operate two academies, Revolution Mixed Martial Arts, in central Arkansas where we train combat athletes and the Benton Panther High School wrestling team. We’re also the only Renegade X training facility in Arkansas. Outside of our work in Arkansas, we travel worldwide conducting seminars for combat athletes and competing. My long-term special project that ties into all of that which I’ve put a lot of time and energy into is developing a crowning sports model for BJJ with an in depth comprehensive developmental plan for BJJ athletes.

3.) How did you two get involved in martial-arts and do you see special ties to living a full life?

I became involved in martial arts many years ago while serving in the military. I believe martial arts to be one of the greatest vehicles for uplifting society, adding real quality to people’s lives and offering a tremendous array of transformational life changing benefits.

4.) What are your current thoughts on the Strength & Conditioning “arena” today? Any notable mistakes being made repeatedly or anything you just shake your head at? Specifically when it comes to martial arts or MMA training?

Well I’m still holding out hope I can develop my core by merely using an overpriced lawn chair or if it was as simple as the one size fits all “workout of the day”. However the money and time would probably be better spent on lotto tickets. As I alluded to earlier with my special project, there’s an absence of a professional sports or developmental model in combat sports excluding Olympic wrestling and judo. Some are overcoming the long standing delusion that you don’t need S & C as part of your training model but unfortunately this is resulting in a flood of unqualified coaches jumping into the field with their gimmicks and personal training certifications looking to make a quick name for themselves off champions of the sport. I recently witnessed one of the greatest grapplers in the world being coached through a series of skill specific techniques with an 80-pound X vest on. I couldn’t imagine how disruptive this was to the movement patterning of these skill specific techniques. In this case and most instances these new S & C coaches of combat athletes are doing more harm than good. I’m watching champion athletes who didn’t partake in a S & C work prior to enlisting one of these coaches go from winning on the world level to losing. It’s like watching Tiger Wood’s golf swing devolve over the last ten years. I could probably write a novel or something perhaps better defined as a long-form rant on the current flawed application of S & C in Combat Athletics.

5.) Who or what are your professional influences and personal influences you would like to mention?

There’s a list of things and people who I feel had a strong impression on the path that led me to where I presently find myself. Since my earliest memories, I had a passion for movement, the artistic and analytical side of it. To this day great ballet dancers and athletes awe me with their motion, expression and mechanics. Like dance you can become lost in the subconscious arte suave of BJJ. I liken it to playing a musical instrument at a masterful level where movement becomes an extension of or direct expression of the soul. The outside world sees it as a fight but we see a masterpiece. This passion I believe drew me to like-minded individuals who shared similar passions regardless of the sport they expressed it in. John Davies was one of the individuals who presented training as a means to an end purpose. Passion was a measure of a man and it reflected in the nature of how he conducted and carried himself in his training and the outcome it produced in his life and not merely some insignificant weight room numbers game. There’s something to training that’s intended to do more than just training, where the purpose is actually to enhance what you do on the road to mastery and doesn’t evolve around musculature or the “sport of training” (I say that because lately I’ve seen bad training marketed as a sport). What you do is something that begins with faith and has a far-reaching end result on life’s canvas. It leaves a little more of an impact on people than your “work out of the day” score. That is sport. I can’t really recall anybody’s workout that left a lasting impression on me but I can recall quite a few performances on the mats that will be forever consume the minds of many inspiring the next generation to rise up to the challenges they face. Some of those performances that inspired me were those by Robson Moura, who would become my BJJ coach. I often refer to him as the “Michael Angelo” of Jiu Jitsu because of his creativity on the mats, artful performances and dominance of the sport. I wanted to be like that when I grew up even though I was already grown up when I met him.

7.) Reading any good books right now or studying something that would surprise the readers?

What’s surprising is probably the amount of reading and research I do more so than what. I spend a great deal of time researching specialized knowledge of my field. I think that’s expected and not too surprising to people unless you’re one of those people who believe in the fallacy of talent over hard work. I’m pretty sure my daily consuming ritual of research and training meet the criteria of obsession but I’ve found that to be the common denominator along with having the right mentors in those who succeed.

8.) Any closing thoughts or words?

Yeah, there was a lot of talk of training, specifically for sport. But of most importance is what it does beyond the play of sport and that what you serve is something greater than your self.

Jorry, I just want to say thank you so much for taking the time to share your thoughts and experiences with my readers. Greatly appreciated!

If folks stop over at Revolution MMA website you can sign up for a FREE DVD, FREE e-Course and FREE Diet e-Book!

In this interview I talk with a friend of mine JJ The Crew Guy! He defines the term “When the rubber meets the road.” Not to be shunned or underestimated JJ has a dynamic background and a polite demeanor. He helps all to become better! We met for the first time at Victory Sports Performance many years ago as JJ was longboarding through the shopping plaza parking lot! So grab your pop corn, sit back and listen!

1.) JJ can you tell us a little about yourself and your background?

I am a life-long athletic enthusiast who owns and operates Coast Right Fitness, an athletic and wellness training organization out of Delaware. I am a Founding DMC™ Professional, Sr. Renegade Trainer, and Renegade Kettlebell Specialist. I am also Sergeant at Arms for Renegade Training International and Renegade X franchise holder. Baseball and Football were my sports of choice as a child, continuing all the way into High School with baseball being my best sport. As a pitcher and third basemen I was very good and even better as a hitter; maintaining well over a .700 batting average. I had a promising future in the sport until a rotator injury ended my career in High School. The injury was mainly a result of being over pitched, but looking back I can also attribute it to a failure on my part to train outside of skill work alone.

Once my baseball career ended, I tried soccer but never really took to it and shortly thereafter discovered the wonders of cars and girls. At this point I pretty much took a hiatus from sports for about five years until I discovered Martial Arts. Unfortunately my Martial Arts career was short lived after having the tailgate of a dump truck fall on to my foot which shattered nearly every bone within. Of course it missed my steel toe by an inch. Once the cast got off I decided that I just could not afford Karate and I joined a gym in an effort to fill out the short sleeved shirts. Yes, I was noodle armed at one time.

I stumbled upon Renegade Training after a serious auto accident left me with promises of never being able to workout with weights, or compete athletically again.

2.) You have several projects going on right now. Can you highlight on them for the readers.

I have a number of projects in the works, I always do. One project, which relates directly to Renegade Training, is too introduce Renegade Training and specifically Renegade X into the Pro-Wrestling/Sports Entertainment scene. The up and coming generation of wrestlers is really lacking when it comes to training outside of the ring specific work and for injury prevention. They are making the same mistake I made with Baseball by training exclusively in skill work and their careers are often cut short because of it. It is sad to see kids half my age, possessing phenomenal skill sets and potential, already facing retirement. I look to change this.

3.) A majority of the readers have no idea on your involvement with Professional Wrestling. Can you tell us about how you got started, some of the physical demands. And what has been your most significant opponent or match to date?

I have been a Professional Wrestler for about fifteen years now,
and still going strong. It was interrupted briefly by the auto accident I mentioned before, but after six years of Renegade Training I was able to return. How I got into pro-wrestling is typical of how I get into everything; right time, right place with a little fate sprinkled in. I went to a local show, where one of my friends from the gym was competing, because my other friends bailed on me for bar hopping. It so happened that they were short on security that night and I got talked into putting on a security shirt. I was assigned to monitoring a door in exchange for having to pay for my ticket. As I watched the show two thoughts kept coming to my mind, and that was “This looks fun” and “I can do this.” That night, during one of the matches, something broke on the ring and no one knew how to fix it, or had the tools to do so. Because I was a gear head I just happened to have the right tools in my jeep, and I fixed the ring. After the show I then asked the owner how one got involved in pro-wrestling. Having seen my build from the gym, and more importantly skill with a wrench, he offered to train me in exchange for working the ring crew and repairing some of the equipment. The timing of this was perfect as one of his business partners was opening up a pro wrestling school. Consequently, I had the luxury and privilege to train with some of the top professionals in the sport. A year later JJ “The Ring Crew Guy” made his debut in the ring.

The physical demands of Professional Wrestling are far greater than most people realize. One reason is there is no off season. Another reason is the hours of travel time required to get to an event. I think the hours spent in a car are nearly as punishing on the body as the constant impact of being slammed in the ring. One of the biggest miss-conceptions amongst fans is that these rings are thickly padded and absorb impact like a trampoline. I can tell you that this is far from the truth. Most rings offer little more cushion than the floor in your living room. Eventually the issues of continual impact, travel, and inadequately trained opponents take its toll on the body. As with MMA, I would say the neck, and spine, are the most vulnerable, and substantial focus needs to be devoted to these areas when planning out a training routine. DMC and RED2 I would say are mandatory additions to any Pro-Wrestler’s training routine.

The great thing about Pro-Wrestling is just about every match has a story to it. This is what makes the sport so addicting. If I had to single out one match out of hundreds though, it would have to be during one of my WWE tryouts when they asked me twenty minutes before the television cameras began to roll that I was to get a tryout after previously telling me that I was not needed that night. I was a late replacement and slated to wrestle a veteran and very popular wrestler at the time. I only had one year of experience under my belt, but of course I mislead everyone in believing I had three years (the minimum at the time) just to get the opportunity. However, my experience, or lack of showed itself three seconds into the match when I got my nose busted open from a Muay Thai Knee. The following three minutes were probably some of the longest in my life as I took as thorough of a whipping as one could. I tried in the middle of the match to fight back, but that did not work so well and ended up with me getting even bloodier than I already was. Imagine the most brutal and lopsided UFC match you have ever seen, and this rivaled it. The worst part, but yet the most humorous, was the match was internationally televised and then put on continual rotation on the monitors inside the WWE Café in New York. A whole group of our regular fans went up there, and of course guess who they saw a dozen times while there? The written review of the match also publicized internationally, “JJ had a great look, but was very green and was thrown around like a sack of potatoes.” This was as good of an example of “Look like Tarzan, play like Jane” as you can get. I know you know that quote Shawn.

I do want to note, that I did rebound and received another shot at the big leagues. In fact my tag team partner and I actually had a contract for five tryouts with one of the big two. Unfortunately, a week before the first of five contracted tryouts I got hit by a drunk driver and that pretty much ended any hope of making it to the big leagues.

4.) What are your current thoughts on the Strength & Conditioning “arena” today? Any notable mistakes being made repeatedly or anything you just shake your head at?

The “Arena” so to speak has lost its soul and has rapidly declined into being a grand marketing ploy. I really need not expand further as I will be pretty redundant to what you post in your blogs and on social media. We are in 100% agreement on this matter. Saying more will certainly cause my blood pressure to rise.

5.) Who are your professional influences?
6.) Any personal influences you would like to mention?

My professional influences are also my personal influences. I surround myself with good people and use their friendship, diversity, and positive energy to influence myself professionally and personally. Team Renegade is a great example of this. As the saying goes; “you are the company you keep.”

7.) Reading any good books right now or studying something that would surprise the readers?

I just started “The Stormlight Archive” by Brandon Sanderson. It looks like it might have some promise, we will see. I am a big Fantasy/Science Fiction buff when it comes to books. Really enjoyed Robert Jordan’s “Wheel of Time” series and consider it the benchmark. Unfortunately I have been struggling to find something that catches my interest lately as far as books. I have read so many disappointing novels that I decided to try my luck at writing one. It is certainly harder than it looks, but not impossible. One of these days I will get it all together and coherent enough to publish.

8.) Any closing thoughts or words?

I am good at what I do because of hard work. As much as I hate the term and feel it is misused, I am far from being a genetically gifted athlete physically. Everything I accomplished was a direct result of hard work. Hours, days, months, years I spent training on what would take my peers fifteen minutes to master. I made hard work, and stubborn determination my “genetic gift” and this is something anyone can do too. Just because you can’t do something, does not mean you can’t without hard work and relentless determination.

- JJ, I just want to say “thank you” for taking the time to help my readers and the many athletes that I work with! Please follow JJ on Facebook to read up on his training developments and motivating tactics! When he builds it… they come!

The GIFT of the Martial Way

This will be a quick informative post about expression.
I make no money from this but if you pull together the many posts from here and my facebook fan page you can create the GREATEST starting point to the journey on YOUR PATH. And what better form of a holiday gift can you give?

FIRST: blend movement patterns and become fluid {bamboo}
See the vid: BIG BEND

SECOND: purchase The Mark of R {it’s being given away!}

THIRD: read Abby Malone’s interview on the gentle blend of life and martial arts {LESSONS}

FOURTH: purchase Danny Dring’s book Stay in the Fight {Danny is a true master with a wealth of knowledge that is requested from around the world}

FIFTH: read Jason Mertlich’s interview on the balance of “The Way” and professional sports.

FINALLY: ENTER YOUR JOURNEY BY TAKING THE FIRST STEP ON “YOUR” PATH

Train Hard & LIVE!

- Shawn
shawn@gamespeed.biz

In my next interview I catch up with one half of a dynamic couple, Abby Ziemer Malone! { check out the resume } She and Jorry are the owners and developers of Revolution Mixed Martial Arts Academy. They truly embrace the martial way and walked this path for many years! They are two of the most respectful individuals I have met and have an abiding passion for their art and many endeavors.

1.) Abby can you tell us a little about yourself and your background?

I have been doing martial arts since I was 7. It will be 23 years in July 2012.
I began doing traditional martial arts because my brother asked to do it for his birthday. I was bored watching the class so my parents let me join in.  I have never stopped since then. I began competing early, and won state championships. I later won national championships and competed at the Junior Olympics. Then I competed and won in the world championships and moved from TaeKwonDo to full contact kickboxing. In college I began Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and I have since begun competing Internationally in that and have medaled in the European, Pan and World Championships. I am one of the few female American Black Belts in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.  I started my instructor training at the age of 13 and have had the opportunity to train with many legends in Martial Arts. Now I own 2 gyms, in Benton and Hot Springs, Arkansas, called Revolution Mixed Martial Arts. At our gyms we teach Kids and Adults Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai Kickboxing.

2.) Can you tell us about your various martial-art schools and any special projects that you have going on.

I have a lot of projects I’m working on currently. A typical day is to get up and do a little work: usually phone and email stuff, and anything else that is very important. Then I do my workout, which varies depending on where I am in the periodization model, and if there are any competitions coming up. After that I come home and eat. I do more business stuff at that time. Then I teach classes and train again in the adult BJJ class.  I spend a few hours each night working on my blogs and internet marketing stuff. I build all of our websites, write sales copy, and other things of this nature.

Our gyms are quite busy and we are preparing to expand our Benton gym so that we can incorporate a full strength and conditioning model/ classes to our program. As it is currently it is just something we do on the side. I look forward to having the opportunity to have another classroom to run this program full time.

I am also developing a Kids BJJ curriculum with Robson Moura that we will be filming in December. I have been doing a lot of work organizing and planning that. Building a curriculum is one of the most time intensive things because it has to be done right and tested over a period of time. I have spent 5 years working on developing and testing the current model we will be filming.

3.) How did you get involved in martial-arts and do you see special ties to living a full life?

I started as a kid, but I met Jory when I started taking Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Actually, at the BJJ place I took Japanese Ju Jitsu as well, and Jory was one of the teachers of that class. Japanese Ju Jitsu is a lot of fun but it’s purely for self defense, and there are no competitions.

I definitely feel that Martial Arts makes life more fulfilling. I enjoy what I do, and I am around people I like being around. Every day my training gives me a sense of accomplishment, confidence and well being, because every day I overcome adversity in my training. Competition Is the same. I also get to travel the world, go places and meet people I wouldn’t normally meet.

Most of my success in life is due to Martial Arts: It taught me to make good choices about my friends, body and life.

Strength Training with Coach Davies has added to this and I am truly glad to have had the opportunity to do that. Training Strength and Conditioning has taken my Martial Arts far further than I could have on my own.  I will be 30 in December and I feel that I have not been in better shape physically.  Strength and Conditioning has allowed me to be competitive in Martial Arts until now, when most people are retiring.

4.) What are your current thoughts on the Strength & Conditioning “arena” today? Any notable mistakes being made repeatedly or anything you just shake your head at? Specifically when it comes to martial-arts or MMA training?

Martial arts and S & C seem to share a common flaw, in that there’s not significant barriers of entry into the field. In martial arts, strength training is behind, non-existent and without a competent sports model. I see a lot of gimmick driven training that is most likely doing more harm than good. Many in MA are under the impression a lot of skill work somehow is the same as strength and conditioning or they’re attempting to turn skill work into S & C work. There is a defiant lack of qualified coaches in MA. In fact my gym has been laughed at for suggesting Martial Artists need to do S&C. Martial Arts, specifically Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is very tough on the joints and body due to the constant submission attacks on the joints. It is crucial that one practice proper preventative measures as well as take proper steps to recover after training.  Most students quit due to injury (or a perceived injury), and it is the fault of the instructor for not teaching the students proper prevention and rehabilitation exercises.  And on the competitive side there’s little hope of being a world class competitor without conducting yourself as a professional athlete and implementing a proper sports model and periodization plan. At our gym we focus on proper preventative measures as well as restoration work with recreational trainers and use more advance comprehensive S & C plans with competitors.

GSP recently said he only does strength training for looks only, and he made that comment right behind the launch of his RushFit Strengh and Conditioning Product. Are you as confused as me?

5.) Who are your professional influences?

For strength training it is Coach Davies. His programs have helped me tremendously.
I have had a number of great coaches throughout my Martial Arts career who have had a profound impact on me as a person and Martial Artist.

6.) Any personal influences you would like to mention?

See above

7.) Reading any good books right now or studying something that would surprise the readers? And it appears you have a strong passion for photography & nature?

I do like to take photos. I am about to buy a new camera that also shoots video. I have several butterfly gardens and I am working on an orchard out back. I currently have blueberries, blackberries, figs, and olives and will be adding some goji berries and grapes.  I would like to plant a vegetable garden next year, but I have hesitated because I’m not sure if I will have time to tend it. When I was a kid my parents hunted and grew almost all of the food that we ate. I think it’s much healthier to know where your food comes from.  Oddly enough, I do hate to cook :) though.

I do not own a TV.  Being that I was not raised watching TV I have a hard time sitting and watching even Youtube videos. I do read a lot, mostly the Bible and books about marketing. I also do a lot of online research about topics pertaining to Martial Arts. I have begun writing on my website, answering common questions I’ve received as a teacher. ( abbymalone.com )  Additionally I do a lot of research on computers about building websites, running email marketing campaigns, and things of that nature.

8.) Any closing thoughts or words?

Thank you for interviewing me!!!

Thank you Abby for taking the time to catch up! And thank you for inspiring people to succeed and better themselves! True Leader! Soon we’ll hear from the other half of this dynamic couple!

renegadetraining:

The hidden secret that much of the fitness industry has failed to embody throughout my lifetime is not to exercise but have fun. For myself this will mean this holiday season, as well as all others, a selection of one, if not all, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding or skating, along with the daily welcoming of a Squat rack but the point is, whatever physical activity you enjoy, do it. Take the time this holiday period to be more active and lay the foundation for a great year ahead.

In this post I interview Jason Mertlich a friend of mine and founder of The Last Breathe Project located in Orem Utah. Jason embodies the “true” meaning of martial arts and its’ correlation to life and the pursuit of goals. Jason educates, coaches, mentors and develops.

The Project

The LASTBREATH PROJECT has come to life from an epiphany I had in a dark bar in New York City. I had been reflecting on my life for months, asking myself some deep spiritual questions. I had been wandering through life… searching. I was standing alone in this bar, I don’t even know the name of the place. They had some local live music playing. All of a sudden a new band came on, it was a two man band, a guy with his guitar, and a drummer. The man proceeded to give an introduction to his first song titled “my last breath” The song was about his dog who had recently died, and it was written with the inspiration that he would have given his last breath to save his best friend. The song had such a profound effect on me, words cannot even describe the experience truthfully. I had the biggest moment of clarity of my life! I knew my purpose, I knew what I had to create. The LASTBREATH PROJECT was born. I will love to my last breath! I will fight to my last breath! I WILL LIVE TO MY LAST BREATH!

Thanks for reading,
Jason

Grab some coffee and have a seat as Jason tells his tale.

1.)  Jason can you tell us a little about yourself and your background?

Started training Walt Bayless Jiu Jitsu in 1995 Earned Black belt under Walt in 1998. I began boxing in 1998 under Louie Avilla from City Center Boxing in Glendale Utah. Competed for a short time in boxing, which I still enjoy.

Began teaching in 2000, trained many different people ranging from average joe’s to professional fighters. Trained with top MMA fighters from around the world, High level wrestlers, professional boxers, and elite grapplers. I have had the privilege to work with, and train, some of the very best up and coming fighters in the sport of MMA.

Every day we are on this planet is a battle with ourselves, and to strive to be a better version of ourselves. I was very fortunate to meet John Davies. He has been a great mentor to me in training and in life.

I continue to train many different individuals at The Pit Elevated in Orem Utah. My current work can be found at www.lastbreathproject.com, and a current class schedule at www.elevatedacademy.com. I am a Certified Renegade Trainer, Renegade Kettle Bell Specialist. Aqualogix Fitness Certified Instructor. Renegade Training MMA Team Leader.

2.) You have several projects going on right now. Can you highlight on them for the readers.

I am the author of “A Fighters Diet” book found at www.afightersdiet.com Testimonials for my Renegade Training classes and combat Jiu Jitsu can be found on youtube under Jason Mertlich. Also visit www.jasonmertlich.stokemeter.com for some of the current projects and video feeds we are doing. Also visit www.lastbreathproject.com

3.) You have strong ties to MMA, some UFC fighters, The Pit etc. How did you migrate towards the martial arts world? And are there any specific fighters you would like to throw some props at?

I am the Coach of Season 11 Ultimate Fighter Winner Court Mcgee, Season 13 runner up Ramsey Nijem, current season 14 fighter Steven Siler and the Head Fight Team Coach for the Pit Elevated which includes many great up and comers; Trever Mellen, Dayne Aristizabal, Brock :the machine” Jardine and many, many more. The Pit connection came by very naturally. When Court was on Season 11, he was on Chuck Liddell’s team and met John Hackleman (Founder of the PIt, a.k.a the PitMAster) , from then on we have worked together and with Will Ferrar and Todd Elliot to become the PitElevated in Orem Utah.

4.) What are your current thoughts on the Strength & Conditioning “arena” today? Any notable mistakes being made repeatedly or anything you just shake your head at?

The areas that I feel are lacking in S & C in combat sports are, the lack of technical and scientific applications in the field. A lot of people throw random stuff together without the science of Energy system work in their backgrounds. Another thing I find perilous is the notion that you can work everything at once. You can’t optimize strength, explosive power, aerobic conditioning (yes aerobic conditioning plays a key role in combat sports), lactic threshold, alactic system etc. It’s hard to convince people of the science, because it’s just easier to be random. This will change though, too much money will eventually be involved to leave anything to chance.

5.) Who are your professional influences?

My professional influences are (in no order of intentional importance) Waly Bayless, John Davies, John Hackleman, Louie Avilla, Ivan Ivanov, Freddie Roach, Greg Jackson, Joel Jamieson, Marcelo Garcia, Ryan Hall, Rad Martinez, Tareq Azim, Kwame Stephens, Pete Carroll, and many, many more.

6.) Any personal influences you would like to mention?

My wife Shar and son Roman who are my light and life. They give me far more courage than I would ever have alone. My parents for all they have done to bring me into the world, especially my mother, who was a struggling single mother of two. My grandparents who loved me more than anything. My sister Tam. My many friends which number too many to list, all of the members of my team, and whatever binding force in the Universe that brings us all together.

7.) Reading any good books right now or studying something that would surprise the readers?

I just read “Win Forever” by Pete Carroll. One of the best coaching philosophy books I have ever read. I also just finished the “Go-Giver” excellent book on giving. I also read and watch numerous articles and videos on mma, s & c, nutrition, quantum physics, philosophy, art, coaching and spiritual journeys.

8.) Any closing thoughts or words?

I just want to thank you Shawn for the opportunity to share this, and to everyone out there searching… Strive every day of your life to compete and be the very best versions of yourself. Thanks again.

The Last Breath Project

www.lastbreathproject.com

I would personally like to thank Jason for taking the time to reach out to people on a daily basis. To assist them in becoming better individuals and take one ore step forward in achieving their goals!

Thanks Jason!

In this post I interview Rob Oshinskie a friend of mine and founder of Victory Sports and Fitness located in State College, PA. I’ve been out to Victory on several occasions and can tell you that it is a top notch facility with with a quality staff which includes current Renegade Training, DMC Specialist Steve Jury. Coach Davies and I have had the “pleasure” of testing our physical make-up within these walls. Rob has trained motivated adults and athletes for over 16 years. Some of the names you’ll probably recognize:

Current and Former Pro Football Players
John Stupar, Mike Turkovich, Aaron Collins, Shino Prater, Tim Argiriadi, and a host of former PSU players and NFL prospects

Pro Basketballers
Tyler Smith and Joe Crispin

Pro Action Studs
Kenan Harkin, Jamie Bestwick, Ron Kimler, Chris Edwards, Mike Frazier, Judd Hirsch, Thumper Nagasako, and Colin Winkleman

Grab some coffee and have a seat as Rob tells his tale.

1.)  Rob can you tell us a little about yourself and your background?

“GrewUp” in Shamokin, PA. Played football and studied Pre-Med at Bucknell U. (“93) Came to State College in 1997 as a strength G.A. for PSU Football and fell in love with the area. Married to Jackie in August 1998.

 
2.) Can you give the readers a little info about Victory Sports Performance and Fitness and highlight any special classes or events you have going on?

Victory is a fitness and performance center geared toward the goal centered individual. We help people from 8 - 90+ who have identified a goal and want to make it happen. Im real excited about our new youth program called Winners. Winners is for all kids (7-12) and is intended to equip them physically to live a healthier life. This while learning about health and being exposed to positive life principles.

3.) So, here is a good question. I know that you played football at Bucknell University. What do you feel the gridiron game taught you about life?

Football imparted many lessons. The main one pertaining to Victory is Teamwork. We really try to function as a team that looks out for each other and cares about one another. I know this has become cliche’ but we really try to live it. The other thing football taught me is that the body can often do what the mind tells it it can and others say it can’t.



4.) What are your current thoughts on the Strength & Conditioning “arena” today? Any notable mistakes being made repeatedly or anything you just shake your head at?

I really think there is alot of exciting stuff out there but …. First off for many self-serving reasons we are too critical of each others work. What I have come to realize is that when principles and concepts are adhered to there are many methodologies that can be successful. I would have to say that many trainers have gone too far down the functional path. Some work in “proprioceptively enriched” environments has its merit but at the end of the day if you want to get lean, or strong or perform better ya’ gotta sweat and ya’ gotta learn how to move weight and move it rapidly!!!

5.) Who are your professional influences?

Professional influences: Lee Taft, John Davies, Mike Clark, Jay Schroeder, Bobby Handerahan, Tim Greisser, Ethan Reeve, Dave Tait, Gray Cook, Vladimir Zatsiorsky, Dr. Kraemer and TEAM Victory. 

6.) Any personal influences you would like to mention?

Personal Influences: Jesus, my Wife, my Mom and my late Dad influence me every moment of my day.

7.) Reading any good books right now or studying something that would surprise the readers?

I would love to surprise some people but I’m a little predictable. Trying to get through a great business book called “Good to Great”, dabbling with “Winning” by Jack Welch and “Spiritual Leadership” by Blackaby. The title of the Blackaby book is slightly misleading. It is a great book on leadership principles.

8.) Any closing thoughts or words?

Just to encourage anyone going through rough times that you’re here for a purpose and the world is a better place because of you. Our staff has endured two very difficult years on a personal level but by supporting each other, keeping our eyes on the vision and keeping our eyes on God we’re moving forward.

I would personally like to thank Rob for taking the time to hook up the readers with some great knowledge and energy towards making people better everyday!

Thanks Rob!

In this post I interview Marc Hordon a friend of mine and founder of HordoN Health and Boston Sports Institutes. Marc has opened Elite Baseball and Football Training Centers in the Greater Metro Area. His athletes are performing at extraordinary levels all through the region at both the high school and collegiate levels, but more importantly, Marc’s clients are hard working, good citizens and neighbors.

Now, as one of the up and coming national sport performance coaches, Marc’s efforts have led to great strides in injury prevention and maximizing athleticism for athletes and exercisers of all backgrounds.   Marc’s passion for training, educating, and community service has proven to make the world a better place, one client, one team at a time.

1.)  Marc can you tell us a little about yourself and your background?]

I was a pro-prospect baseball player and recruited by just about every top 25 baseball and football program in the country as a catcher/pitcher and QB. 94mph fastball, 70 yard football, and 4.7 40- speed at 6’3” 225. I chose Harvard and immediately got injured. The strength and conditioning program made me worse and dropped my mph, and abuse from my coach my freshmen year (pitch 140 pitches on the regular as a starter (which I loved) but then started me at third the day after. Tore my labrum in my left shoulder diving for a ground ball on lax turf in 30-degree weather. The following spring I tore my right labrum stealing, sliding head first into third, after pithing 140 pitches in the first game. After FOUR years of American Harvard and local high level “rehabilitation” I tore my biceps tendon throwing, producing a third surgery, I began searching for other forms of training and re-hab. which consequently turned me towards Renegade.

 
2.) You have several projects going on right now with your various Boston Institutes. Can you highlight on them for the readers.

HordoN HEALTH is a lifestyle company that employs Renegade Training as its main form of sport performance and personal training. Our other offering of pain massage, lifestyle coaching, and corporate programs have been established by a number of extremely intense apprenticeships under internationally known and renowned guru’s similar to the relationship with John Davies of Renegade Training. The Boston Sports Institutes (Football, Baseball, Jump, Snow, and Cycling (to be released in Oct. 2011)) are comprised of Sport Performance Training and highly refined skill work in each of the sports. We have produced some tremendous high school and collegiate athletes, maintaining consistent performance and free from injuries. We are very excited about the success that we have had in our infancy of these programs.

3.) You have strong ties to baseball because of your collegiate playing days at Harvard. How did you migrate towards the diamond?

Unfortunately, I was drawn to baseball because I was good at it. Turns out, as I went through a tremendous transformation in understanding myself through an intense life-coaching program, I do not like baseball. In fact, I just retired this past summer from the sport despite being a perennial MVP candidate and winning in 2008. I deprived myself of coming to this understanding as the pressure mounted as a youngster with tremendous success. My father was instrumental in my development as a multi tooled athlete in baseball. I simply regret not playing football as I watch my QB replacement at Harvard, Ryan Fitzpatrick, tear up defenses on Sundays. That being said the path I am on now feels more natural than any athletic experience that I have ever had. I have recently picked up boarding (all types) and have resurrected my most successful sport at every level that I played, hockey. Skates are laced and my board is strapped in for the next 20 years of my life. who knows what else I will pick up along the way!



4.) What are your current thoughts on the Strength & Conditioning “arena” today? Any notable mistakes being made repeatedly or anything you just shake your head at?

Ha, strength and conditioning. Hilarious venue. Seriously though, I have to give credit to naming the practice “strength and conditioning” avoiding words like “sport” and “performance” and “training” and “athlete.” This industry makes our athletes “stronger” and “conditioned” but the results are arbitrary. We do not make our athletes better athletes… we, you and I do, but we are Sports Performance Coaches, totally different field.

This industry consistently makes us the worst athletes in the world despite the fact that our resources FAR outweigh those of all other countries. This “industry” in America is larger than any other country with a budget that can only draw the comparison to the New York Yankees budget vs. that of the Kansas City Royals. We do not dominate a single sport in the entire world and have lost over the last 20 years, our edge in sports invented in the US like baseball and basketball. I’m embarrassed by it as an American. We love wallowing in mediocrity.

My answer: Everything is wrong with the research and practice, and furthermore the industry has NO CONNECTION whatsoever with being a better human being, improving quality of life, injury prevention, education, or anything of a dynamic nature.
It is simply exactly what it claims it is in the name. Strength & Conditioning (in a cardio-sense and attempted work threshold-sense, not a muscle memory or movement pattern sense). No more, no less. It’s grossly underperforming.

5.) Who are your professional influences?

John Davies obviously is my biggest. We have weekly and often bi-weekly Skype meetings about career and the future of HH and Renegade International. Others are Lauren Meckler, and internationally acclaimed and best-selling life coach, a neuro-muscular guru who’s name I am not allowed to name by contract, Igor Burdenko, a Russian muscular genius responsible for the Burdenko Method, who’s pool-based rehabilitation process is revolutionary for the 50 plus age group and a REPLACEMENT for surgeries that our baby-boomers are having in record numbers.

6.) Any personal influences you would like to mention?
 

As presenter and clinician I have my father to thank. He is the most dedicated and energized speaker and clinician that I have ever seen work. I was very lucky to have him as a daily mentor as a child in this aspect, and because of him I have over 20 years experience as a clinician only being 30 years old. I literally started working as a clinician at the age of 9.

7.) Reading any good books right now or studying something that would surprise the readers?

 My recent development and study has come from the world of massage and international pain treatments. This method is a hybrid neuromuscular massage and movement patterning is called, Nodroh Massage. This country is overwhelmingly obsessed with surgery and it is horrible, and leads to other injuries and other surgeries as the health community is not connected and only follows the money. You don’t have to look any further than the most recent health care bill, which I have read cover to cover. It is the worst piece of legislation I have seen in years other than No Child Left Behind and obviously the Patriot Act.

This country has a serious problem with treating symptoms and NOT problems and the Healthcare is leading the way.

To be honest I do not read too much, maybe 5,000 words a week, but that is a philosophical choice. I view myself as a Creator of info not a regurgitator. If you take in more info that you create your become a speaking piece for someone else’s opinions. We are leaders at Renegade, not followers. We set the standards; we do not try to meet standards of others.

8.) Any closing thoughts or words?

 I appreciate the opportunity to share my experiences and processes with you and your followers. It is seldom that anyone comes across a dynamic program that demands excellence in a state of mediocrity. It is hard to find athletes dedicated to quality of life and education. The constant continuance of these focuses will keep this country afloat, but it will never be recognized. I recognize your great work Shawn and the work of all of our partners at Renegade.

I would personally like to thank Marc for taking the time to hook up the readers with some great knowledge and energy towards making people better everyday!

Thanks Marc!

for the “GRIDIRON”…

IF - by Rudyard Kipling

If you can keep your head when all about you Are losing theirs and blaming it on you, If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you, But make allowance for their doubting too; If you can wait and not be tired by waiting, Or being lied about, don’t deal in lies, Or being hated, don’t give way to hating, And yet don’t look too good, nor talk too wise:

If you can dream—and not make dreams your master; If you can think—and not make thoughts your aim; If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster And treat those two impostors just the same; If you can bear to hear the truth you’ve spoken Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools, Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken, And stoop and build ’em up with worn-out tools:

If you can make one heap of all your winnings And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss, And lose, and start again at your beginnings And never breathe a word about your loss; If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew To serve your turn long after they are gone, And so hold on when there is nothing in you Except the Will which says to them: ‘Hold on!’

If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue, Or walk with Kings—nor lose the common touch, If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you, If all men count with you, but none too much; If you can fill the unforgiving minute With sixty seconds’ worth of distance run, Yours is the Earth and everything that’s in it, And—which is more—you’ll be a Man, my son!

shawn@gamespeed.biz