Optimum Performance Training CCP/Crossfit Level 1 Certified Trainer

"A year from now you will wish you had started today"



Fitness: Is an evolving journey that follows a path of continued self-improvement through a balanced approach of learning, discipline, struggle and reflection. The body is a physical structure that needs to be treated with proper care allowing the mind to open its true self in discovering its purpose. Becoming comfortable with uncomfortable through physical and mental challenges leads to genuine growth as a human being providing the strength to achieve.





Friday, December 31, 2010

12/30



Ring torture


Workout

21-18-15-12-9-6-3-1
DB swings
Situps

Alicia ended a great class with a PR of 2 chinups!!
Jessie did all 85 situps unbroken
Awesome stuff!

Do you want your first pullup or chinup, or maybe just more of them? Did you know scapular weakness and instability will hinder your progress? At the Garage Gym we dont just "program" workouts, we design them to accomplish a goal. The best question you could ask your trainer or programmer is : what is the PURPOSE of this workout?

Happy new years everyone

2011 the year we make the Mohawk Valley STRONG

Monday, December 27, 2010

Group class 12/27



Are you working hard enough?



Back at it!! Christmas is done, and we are making our way into the new year!! We had a new face, Batina, come to class tonight, she has great potential and we hope to see more of her.

Workout
As many rounds as possible in 10 min
5 jumping pullups
5 pushup
5 squat thrusts
5 situps

Everyone tonight got 7 rounds, it was exciting to see the group move fast and efficient. See everyone thursday!

Are you remembering to eat a balanced portion of protein, carbs and fats at each meal comprised of whole foods aka real food?

Do you suffer from low back tightness or pain? Try this stretch, 2 min per leg, 2x per day for 1 month....low back tightness better?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ZX1QMTdAC4 (start vid at 2:25)

2010 Crossfit game highlights
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kA1u8ujUh-Q&feature=related

2011 season starting soon!!

Friday, December 24, 2010

Group class 12/23

Workout
25 squat thrusts
15 calories on the airdyne (satans tricycle)
25 squat thrusts
15 calories on the airdyne
For time

This workout was short, which we know what that means.. INTENSE. I warned everyone that there first squat thrusts coming off the airdyne would be an eyeopener for them. Teaching your body to function under stress and lactic acid buildup takes time and takes NUMEROUS workouts in that domain to understand and manage that feeling. Becoming comfortable with uncomfortable becomes a popular saying for most crossfitters and those trained under James Fitzgerald and for all members at the Garage Gym. We teach you to become STRONG mentally and physically.
Everyone pushed through the discomfort and had very strong performances. Well done

Brendan dont kill your brothers with crossfit workouts in North Carolina....be ready when you get back.


No class saturday- have a great CHRISTMAS everyone!!

video

100lb pullup, 125lb soon...

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Challenging "tests"

Give these a shot...

Try these two workouts and let me know the results

#1 Row on the concept 2 for 60 min for total meters

#2 On a schwinn airdyne, attempt 300 calories in 10 min.

Group class 12/20

Workout
1 min of situps
1 min of air squats
1 min of manmakers
1 min of box jumps
rest 4 min repeat 3x

Its amazing to watch each member get stronger each class. Everyone made the situps and air squats seem easy. The dedication level is something special also. Class started late last night due to busy holiday schedules of members but EVERYONE still showed up ready to crush a workout. Classes are growing, the army is growing, are you ready?

Im reading a book called Spark and it explains how physical exercise directly relates to a better functioning brain. One example they give in the book was about a highschool, Naperville District 203. This school implemented Zero Hour PE classes. This was a fitness class that was conducted before school started everyday. They ran, lifted weights etc... The results, was staggering. This district turned 19,000 students into the fittest in the nation and ALSO the smartest. Physical exercise= smarter....another benefit of exercise....i think so!

"In order for man to succeed in life, God provided him with two means, education and physical activity. Not separately, one for the soul and the other for the body, but for the two together. With these two means, man can attain perfection."
- Plato

Monday, December 20, 2010

Sat group clas 12/18

Our athletes were truely tested on saturdays workout! We had a new member Ben join us. Ben has a few years crossfit experience and is looking to take his performance to the next level and will be joining the garage gym for saturday workouts as he commutes from Syracuse.
Workout- 40 sec of work, 20 sec of rest, 3 rounds
Wallballs
Airdyne sprint
box jumps
Sumo deadlift highpull
*after all stations are completed for that round each athlete gets a 1 min break*

As a group lish, ben and brendan pushed very hard. Well done

Lish got her first pullup at the beginning of class, HUGE accomplishment, video coming shortly.

Friday, December 17, 2010

New pr


video

PR Hang Power snatch 145 x 3

My training workout today
A1 Hang Power Snatch 3 reps rest 10 sec
A2 Toes to rings 10 unbroken rest 10 sec
A3 As many reps as possible Handstand pushups rest 3 min repeat 7x
B Front leaning rest on rings, accumulate 300 sec

Group class tommorrow at 9am!


On a side note the national news said today to "try to limit your intake of junk food to 10% or under for your daily calories"
-haha really? Garage gym clients know the real deal...

Group class 12/16

Workout
3 rounds:
10 squat thrusts (bren burpees)
10 lunges (bren 20lb weighted lunges)
10 jumping pullups (bren reg pullups)
10 situps (bren Knees to Elbows)

As a result of everyone getting stronger, flexability improving and moral being high, our workouts are evolving into some great events. The jumping pullups where challenging for everyone due to a low platform to stand on. The situps and lunges were crushed by everyone. Squat thrusts are not fun, but everyone blasted through them. Brendan finished in 9:14 performing 30 reps of regular burpees, weighted lunges, pullups and knees to elbows. Within one class brendan figured out a kipping knees to elbow and got his "rhythm" back on pullups. Very strong performances.
Classes are growing! My past training partner and crossfit client of almost 3 years has moved back from NYC and is joining the Garage Gym. First class is saturday!

Bored of your normal gym routine, not seeing results, looking for a TRUE challenge, stop by or send us an email!

Members - Dont forget your homework for next class...

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Holiday Gift?

Are you looking for a great holiday gift for a family member or friend, maybe yourself?
This nutrition series is packed with amazing info and will clearly define what is necessary to eating properly for your individual body type.

Optimum Performance Training Blog

https://opt.infusionsoft.com/he/42678/a2120072ccf564d9135f2885cdae77ed

A vision?

" Type 1 behavior depends on three nutrients: autonomy, mastery and purpose. Type 1 behavior is self directed. It is devoted to becoming better and better at something that matters. And it connects that quest for excellence to a larger purpose".
Drive- Daniel Pink

Do you have a long-term vision?

Do you have fitness/nutrition and lifestyle goals for 2011?

Think about this in the upcoming weeks, define a vision, it can be 1 month, 1 year or a lifetime. Also come up with a few fitness, nutrition and lifestyle goals for 2011. Write them down, and re-read them periodically to stay focused. If you are a member at Garage Gym, give a copy to your coach, we will make sure you stay on track.

Monday, December 13, 2010

MoTiVaTiOn



Tough mudder 2010
We are building a team for 2011- will you be ready?


Im reading a new book called Drive by Daniel Pink, and its interesting what really motivates human beings. Motivation 1.0 drives humans to biologically survive, food, shelter, reproduction. Motivation 2.0 started around 1995, carrots and sticks aka rewards and punishments, where implemented to assist workplaces in getting their workers to produce more. Incentives given for higher work output and punishments for not meeting a "quota" etc. Motivation 2.0 is still being used throughout workplaces all over the world but what current research is finding is that 2.0 is not nearly as effective as people think. Motivation 3.0 is intrinsic rewards and autonomy. People like to be in control of their own path, and want to do work that they feel GOOD ABOUT. If employers can find a way to make an employees work a more enjoyable (intrinsically) and give more employees freedom to choose their own path within the work place (within limits), I can guarentee production will go up.
I'll leave you with something I read in a book called the 4 hour work week by Tim Ferriss. Post thoughts to comments if you would like...

For the past 33 yrs I have looked in the mirror every morning and asked myself. " If today were the last day of my life would I want to do what I am about to do today"?. And whenever the answer has been No for too many days in a row I know I need to change something....almost everything-all external expectations all pride, all fear of embaressment or failure-these things just fall away in the face of death, leaving what is truely important. Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose.
-Steve Jobs- college dropout, CEO of Apple Computer

group class 12/13


Forging the future of fitness

We are growing together as a community and we are getting fitter each week. In 2 weeks everyone has already seen huge improvements. Monica is getting 7 regular pushups, first class she was struggling with pushups on her knees. Jess is cranking out each movement with perfect form and continues to improve. Jess figured out tonight not to jump off the airdyne at full speed and that sitting by a dehumidfyer doesnt make you any warmer. Brendan gave me his entire heart tonight, pushing himself to the limits. Brendans has crossfit memory in his muscles, he is making his way back to firebreathing status, watch out.

The workout tonight
10 thrusters with 10lb DB's (bren 45lb barbell)
Row or airdyne sprint at 100% for 30 sec
rest 1.5 min repeat 3x, bren 4x

extra work: side plank holds, 30 sec/side

See everyone thursday!



I've had some questions on what im doing for my training getting ready for sectionals, so heres a sneak peak

A. Split jerk at 80% 2x2 rest 1 165,165lb
B. Split jerk at 90% 2x2 rest 2 185,185lb
C. Split Jerk at 100% 2x2 rest 3 195,195lb
D. on the min for 10 min power clean x1, split jerk x3 125lb
E. Toes to bar 10 reps 5 sets, rest 45 sec b/t sets

Sunday, December 12, 2010

Group class week of 12/6


The old gym

Our classes are kicking ass. We are learning to move effectively and efficiently. We are sweating, working hard and having fun. Our group now has a basic understanding of what we should be eating for breakfast. They have reported back to me and the grocery shopping is done, now it has to be implemented. We are building athletes ready to crush challenges that get in their way. There workouts are programmed for them, all they have to do is bring their heart. Are you sick of your 3 sets of 10, loosing focus in your gym, no goals, same old setting? Come check out what goes on inside the walls at the Garage Gym.


Something to think about...posted on my coaches blog at http://www.optimumperformancetraining.blogspot.com/

One knows the price we pay without creating balance in life/sport/etc...are you truly working hard enough? Do you see how not "working hard" can carryover to how you "work hard" at life and just living. Or conversely are you focusing all of your efforts in the wrong "work hard" place - i.e is there truly an equilibrium in that? Or do you not understand a thing I am saying? If not, why?







People say that what we are seeking is a meaning for life. I dont think this is what we're really seeking. I think what we're seeking is an experience of being alive.
-Joseph Campbell

Monday, December 6, 2010

Monday 12/6 Group Class


Rondax doing a Crossfit workout

What an awesome night here at the Garage Gym. We had Brendan, Monica and Jessica for class. Its amazing how fast clients see change with this program! Monica has already improved greatly on pushups and jessie with her situps and core strength. Brendan has 6 months CF experience prior to his 5 month layoff so he is starting to get his original lungs back. Our workout tonight..
3 rounds
10 squat thrusts
10 lunges (bren 20)
10 jumping pullups (bren regular pullups)

Each athlete did an amazing job. We practiced the kipping motion and hollow rock to end off class. See everyone thursday!

Garage Gym? Your questions answered HERE



My Coachs' James and Mike Fitzgerald


Who we are:
My name is Joshua Lewis and I am a student of the Optimum Performance Training CCP certification program and completed the Level 1 Assessment and Program Design course. I am also a Crossfit Certified Level 1 Trainer. I have competed in a variety of events throughout the last 5 years. Utica Boilermaker 3x, Empire State Games-Olympic Weightlifting 2007, Crossfit Games Finals 2008, Crossfit Regionals 2009, Crossfit Sectionals 2010,2011, numerous local Crossfit Throwdowns, local road races and the 2010 Tough Mudder in NJ. I have a huge passion for training functional movements across all time domains and testing the human body in numerous environments. As important as your Training program is, nutrition and lifestyle habits are just as important. I have researched and learned from the best in that field, Rob Wolf, James Fitzgerald, Michael Pollan, and Joel Salatin. Kelly Starrett has expanded my knowledge in recovery and mobility which has turned into an obsession of mine and the benefits of it are numerous. What good is a great athlete that cant move correctly? In addition to the group class training and individualized training that goes on at The Garage Gym, I also program customized nutrition plans for those looking to learn how to eat correctly. I instruct a group fitness class at Hamilton College to Faculty and Students , where they learn important functional exercises and the importance of a structured fitness program.
My wife Alicia has a solid understanding of proper nutrition and lifestyle factors. She eats a Paleo based diet and enjoys training in a group environment. Her enthusiasm that she brings to group class is outstanding and her fitness levels and coaching ability continue to improve on a daily basis.

What in the world is The Garage Gym?
Our facility is a brand new 1000 sq foot garage that has a comfortable hemlock adirondack interior. Our open floor plan allows for group classes of 6-8 to participate in a safe, fun environment. We have a 9 person pullup rig that was built by my father. I consider it the best part of the gym. Cant do pullups? No problem we have box's and bands to assist with that, you'll be doing pullups in no time! There is two sections to hang 12 foot ropes from and also gymnastic rings for those athletes looking for more of a challenge. We have bumper weights allowing our athletes to DROP there weights if needed. We are not going to yell at you or cancel your membership if you drop a heavy snatch or jerk. We only have 2 machines, concept two rowers(4) and a Glute Ham Developer. Changing room and bathroom will be started shortly.

What is a class like?
Our group classes last one hour. We start with a basic 10-15 minute dynamic full body warm up. We go over technique and expections for the workout. Athletes are coached throughout the workout and instructed on proper form and strategy. After the workout is completed we cool down and athletes are shown effective stretching movements geared towards increasing their range of motion and improving everyday mobility. During that final cool down we discuss nutrition or lifestyle topics that are important to all members or just chat, our community at Garage Gym is extremely supportive and encouraging!

I have no background in fitness or physical activities:
No problem! Every client has a complete assessment and all workouts are prescribed to meet their needs/goals.

Whats next?
Contact us via phone or email to setup your free consultation and assessment!


-Garage Gym

Friday, December 3, 2010

First group class at The Garage Gym

Last night we had our first group class at 6pm and the class went great. We had 5 individuals who were ready to learn and sweat. We started with a basic 15 min warmup to get the blood moving. Then we moved into our workout explanation. There first workout was...
40 mountain climbers
15-12-9
Air Squat
Pushup
Situps
40 mountain climbers

Everyone pushed hard and I was extremely impressed with their efforts. Our next class is Monday at 6, hope to see everyone again!

* Coming soon, Saturday 9am class.



Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it is time to pause and reflect.
-Mark Twain

Thursday, December 2, 2010

Hamilton College Classes are growing!


photo courtesy of hard gainer muscle building...

We had our biggest OPT class of the semester last night at Hamilton College. Our current crew is growing as a team and they are improving weekly. Our workout last night was

25 burpees
300m row
25 burpees
300m row

Fastest time Jon 4:34, smoking fast.
Everyone of the students finished in under 6:30, extremely impresssive.

May 2011, possibly a campus wide "fittest male and female" competition?

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Now is the time...

This is a GREAT article...check this out, the last paragraph is something special...

"Because the finishers are the only ones who get to wear that badge afterward. They're the ones who will be telling the story tomorrow, and it's theirs to tell"


http://www.catalystgym.com/2010/11/the-only-way-out-is-through.html