What I've been... January Edition

READING
Athletic Body in Balance by Gray Cook: This book is step one in the process of learning anything involved with the Functional Movement Screening. It is a certification that I am in the process of studying for. This particular resource is now 11 years old but lays the foundation for further study!

American Sniper by Chris Kyle: I wanted to read this one before viewing the movie. I must say, for one who does not intend on "boasting" about his exploits, he sure does go about it in an interesting way. In the end, he loved God, Country, & Family (in that order) and this caused issues in his "civilian" life. The book portrays the difficulties between a man, his family, his love for America, and the struggles a serviceman faces when they return home. 

The Functional Movement Screen Manual by Gray Cook: Step two in the studying process. This manual breaks down the Functional Movement Screen: how to administer it, how to score it, how to identify flaws, and how to "prescribe" the corrective exercises to fix any flaws. It is eye-opening and humbling. It's one of those things where I thought I knew something about the topic prior, but quickly learned I was wrong!

WATCHING
Sons of Liberty: The History channels three night television show on the birth of our country. It tells the story of Samuel Adams role as the instigator of revolution, John Hancock's variety of roles, and Benjamin Franklin's influence on the other decision makers of the Continental Congress. Alongside these men, there were other historical figures like John Adams, Paul Revere, and George Washington. Ben Franklin is portrayed as a womanizing drunkard which is kind of funny seeing him portrayed in that light. This special had me hooked and I am glad to have watched it. Check it out! 

The U Part II: Same story, different "cast". The U Part I told the story of the Miami Hurricane football team that came to power in the 80's. Once success came, along came corruption. NCAA violations and controversy. Fast forward a few years and after a few quiet years, Miami storms back to prominence and the same issues that put their program in jeopardy 15+ years ago was occurring once again! New cast, same story for the U

I went to four movies this month and rank them in this order! 

1. The Imitation Game: Great story about a troubled genius!
2. Foxcatcher: I remember this story but was very young. If you aren't familiar with the story, DO NOT look it up prior to watching it. You will be shocked!
3. The Wedding Ringer: I was a little skeptical prior to viewing it but left loving it. I asked my girlfriend prior, "Do you think I will laugh over or under 5 times?" She went with the over and was correct. It is immature humor but that stuff cracks me up!
4. Unbroken: I was into the book much more than the movie. I found myself yawning towards the end. It reminded me of the time I saw Lincoln, cool story but too long for me!

TRAINING
Kettlebells, kettlebells, and more kettlebells. I started a new program that has me alternating between the Russian Kettlebell Workout that I have previously discussed, and the Even Easier Strength program in two week increments. I am hoping this will keep my mind fresh as I move towards my goals. It is basically two weeks of heavy kettlebell training followed by two weeks of barbell training. I will keep you posted on how it all goes!