The Hammer Cast
Real strength. No fluff. 514 episodes.
514 episodes and counting. Every week, Aleks sits down with some of the strongest, most experienced coaches and athletes on the planet to bring you no-nonsense training knowledge you can use today.
Ep. 472: Pat Flynn Gives a Sneak Peak Of His Brand-New Book, Strong ON!
December 19, 2024
I'm joined on this episode by my ol' pal Pat Flynn to talk about his epic new book, Strong ON! In this episode we talk about: Release of Pat Flynn's new book "Strong On: 101 Minimalist Kettlebell Workouts to Blast Fat, Build Muscle, and Boost Flexibility" Defining minimalism properly, not just as "doing very little"…
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I’m joined on this episode by my ol’ pal Pat Flynn to talk about his epic new book, Strong ON!
In this episode we talk about:
- Release of Pat Flynn’s new book “Strong On: 101 Minimalist Kettlebell Workouts to Blast Fat, Build Muscle, and Boost Flexibility”
- Defining minimalism properly, not just as “doing very little”
- The benefits of kettlebell training as a “fitness generalist” approach
- Incorporating creativity and principles from other disciplines (like music) into workout design
- The importance of making fitness enhance your life, not consume it
- Examples of Pat’s “Flynnimalism” approach using lighter weights effectively
- A cool way Pat has applied a common musical technique to his workouts to amplify their effect for blasting fat and boosting muscle and strength
Be sure to pick up your own copy right here: https://a.co/d/1inhRQ4
And if you’re keen to strengthen your Soft Machine, my 9-Minute Kettlebell and Bodyweight Challenge might be right up your alley.
- It only takes (wait for it) 9 minutes to do it
- It’s tough enough to make you sweat, gasp for air, and pause to let your mind, muscles, and manly might catch up – but gentle enough to be done DAILY
- It works as the perfect finisher or in-between-day workout for any program you’re on (even the toughest ones out there)
Plus, it’s totally free. What’s not to love?
Check it out here: http://www.9MinuteChallenge.com
Have fun and happy training!
Aleks Salkin
Ep. 471: Al Kavadlo Dishes on the ULTIMATE Calisthenics Program
December 13, 2024
On this episode of The Hammer Cast, Aleks and Al Kavadlo discuss Al's new book, "Ultimate Calisthenics," which is the culmination of his life's work in fitness. The program includes a full book and over 50 video tutorials, covering exercises with minimal equipment like parallel bars, rings, and an Ab wheel. We also discuss: The…
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On this episode of The Hammer Cast, Aleks and Al Kavadlo discuss Al’s new book, “Ultimate Calisthenics,” which is the culmination of his life’s work in fitness.
The program includes a full book and over 50 video tutorials, covering exercises with minimal equipment like parallel bars, rings, and an Ab wheel.
We also discuss:
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The challenges of creating the Ultimate Calisthenics program
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The role of foundational exercises and proper technique in calisthenics
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The similarities between the music and fitness industries
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Challenges and rewards of career changes to the fitness industry
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The importance of personal responsibility in health and fitness
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The subscription model in the fitness and medical industries
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Al’s Fortify Training platform and upcoming online summit
- Much, much more
Check out Al’s book here: Ultimate Calisthenics | Bodyweight Training Program by Al Kavadlo
And if you’re keen to strengthen your Soft Machine, my 9-Minute Kettlebell and Bodyweight Challenge might be right up your alley.
- It only takes (wait for it) 9 minutes to do it
- It’s tough enough to make you sweat, gasp for air, and pause to let your mind, muscles, and manly might catch up – but gentle enough to be done DAILY
- It works as the perfect finisher or in-between-day workout for any program you’re on (even the toughest ones out there)
Plus, it’s totally free. What’s not to love?
Check it out here: http://www.9MinuteChallenge.com
Have fun and happy training!
Aleks Salkin
Ep. 470: Tim Anderson on the NEW Original Strength Gym, Upcoming Workshops, and More!
September 24, 2024
I'm joined once again by my pal and founder of Original Strength, Tim Anderson, to discuss a whole heapin' helpin' of epic stuff – namely: * Tim's new facility and the expanded crawling space * Crawling techniques and challenges * John Brookfield's influence and training philosophy * Upcoming Original Strength events and workshops * Fuquay-Varina…
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I’m joined once again by my pal and founder of Original Strength, Tim Anderson, to discuss a whole heapin’ helpin’ of epic stuff – namely:
* Tim’s new facility and the expanded crawling space
* Crawling techniques and challenges
* John Brookfield’s influence and training philosophy
* Upcoming Original Strength events and workshops
* Fuquay-Varina and the local community
* The impact and effectiveness of Original Strength
* Passion and effective sales/marketing techniques
* Cultural and language learning considerations
- Final thoughts and contact information
Check Tim out online at the following totally digital locations:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OriginalStrengthSystem
Website: https://originalstrength.net/
Also, be sure to get your hands on my FREE 9-Minute Kettlebell and Bodyweight Challenge here: http://www.9MinuteChallenge.com
Ep. 469: Pat Flynn on the 11 Commandments of Fitness
September 22, 2024
I'm joined once again on my podcast by my pal Pat Flynn, discussing his latest article on his very humbly titled "Journal of Absolute Truth," entitled: "The only 11 Fitness Tips You'll Ever Need." You can (and damn well better) read all about it here: https://journalofabsolutetruth.substack.com/p/the-only-11-fitness-tips-youll-ever Also: Pat's got a new book now available for…
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I’m joined once again on my podcast by my pal Pat Flynn, discussing his latest article on his very humbly titled “Journal of Absolute Truth,” entitled:
“The only 11 Fitness Tips You’ll Ever Need.”
You can (and damn well better) read all about it here:
https://journalofabsolutetruth.substack.com/p/the-only-11-fitness-tips-youll-ever
Also:
Pat’s got a new book now available for pre-sale that I highly recommend you snag as well. A very handsome and Hebrew Hammerly gent wrote a nice blurb about it, so you can be absolutely sure it’s going to fill the gaping hole in your life (or at least your library) https://a.co/d/aqlisMp
And don’t forget to snag your own free copy of my most splendiferous 9-Minute Kettlebell and Bodyweight Challenge right here, baby: http://www.9MinuteChallenge.com
Ep. 468: Is Hardstyle the 'Donald Trump' of the Kettlebell World?
August 30, 2024
Get your own FREE digital copy of the 9-Minute Kettlebell and Bodyweight Challenge here: http://www.9MinuteChallenge.com I'm sure this episode will rustle some jimmies, but you know what? Who really gives a shyt. In this episode I cover: * Reactions to hard style kettlebell training vs. reactions to Donald Trump * Overview of the origins and…
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Get your own FREE digital copy of the 9-Minute Kettlebell and Bodyweight Challenge here: http://www.9MinuteChallenge.com
I’m sure this episode will rustle some jimmies, but you know what? Who really gives a shyt.
In this episode I cover: * Reactions to hard style kettlebell training vs. reactions to Donald Trump
* Overview of the origins and approach of hard style kettlebell training
* Reactions of other kettlebell practitioners towards hard style
* Historical parallels of new movements being criticized by established ones
* The perception of hard style as the “gold standard” in kettlebell lifting
* Encouragement to try different kettlebell styles and training methods
If you enjoyed the episode (or even if you hated it), feel free to share it far and wide.
And don’t forget to snag your own free copy of my 9-Minute Kettlebell and Bodyweight Challenge right here, baby: http://www.9MinuteChallenge.com
Ep. 467: Mark Shropshire on Building Strength and Muscle at Age 50 and Beyond
July 25, 2024
I'm joined on this brand-new episode once more by my friend Mark Shropshire, a master instructor with Original Strength (OS). Now it's YOUR turn to join us as we discuss: His upcoming OS workshops in Colorado the benefits of the OS system for various populations, including older adults and those recovering from injuries. Shrop's personal…
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I’m joined on this brand-new episode once more by my friend Mark Shropshire, a master instructor with Original Strength (OS). Now it’s YOUR turn to join us as we discuss:
- His upcoming OS workshops in Colorado
- the benefits of the OS system for various populations, including older adults and those recovering from injuries.
- Shrop’s personal experience of recovering from a hip injury using OS techniques and the importance of addressing physical limitations to improve overall well-being.
- How of kettlebells, the BakBon device, and blood flow restriction (BFR) training can be used for rehabilitation and strength training, highlighting the balance between scientific research and practical experience.
- His work on an upcoming book titled “Loaded Resets” that explores how adding load to OS resets can improve posture and mental clarity.
- His collaborative effort in writing an ebook on pickleball, a growing sport with a wide range of players, focusing on fitness and technique.
- Much, much more
Follow him online at markshropshire.com and follow him on Instagram at @shropshirest
Wanna crush weakness and forge all-day strength, stamina, and resilience WITHOUT any complicated exercises or confusing programs? My world-famous 9-ππππ’π‘π πΎππ‘π‘ππππππ πππ π΅πππ¦π€πππβπ‘ πΆβπππππππ might be just what the proverbial doctor ordered. The moves are so simple and intuitive that you can learn them in 30 seconds or less (so you’ll be off to the races in less time than it took you to read this post), AND it’s designed to be done in conjunction with your regular training – so no need to take a detour; instead, you get to step on the gas toward your goals. Get your own free copy here: http://www.9MinuteChallenge.com Have fun and happy training! – Aleks Salkin
Ep. 466: Dan John Returns! The Past, Present, and Future of Strength & Fitness (Part 2)
July 18, 2024
I'm joined once again for round 2 with the great and powerful Dan John. On today's episode we discussed: Experiences and lessons learned from fitness events, including a memorable trip to Disney World for an RKC certification The evolution of workout culture, from the "burn" culture of the 1970s-80s to the rise of high-intensity training…
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I’m joined once again for round 2 with the great and powerful Dan John. On today’s episode we discussed:
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Experiences and lessons learned from fitness events, including a memorable trip to Disney World for an RKC certification
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The evolution of workout culture, from the “burn” culture of the 1970s-80s to the rise of high-intensity training and functional fitness in the 2000s
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The influence of the internet on the fitness industry, including the emergence of HIT and kettlebell training
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Misconceptions about lifting weights and bodybuilding, and the importance of proper form and technique
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The potential pitfalls of relying on AI-generated workout programs and the need for specificity
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The importance of community, mastery, and looking back to move forward in fitness and personal growth
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Recommendations for simple, effective workouts and the benefits of walking, eating vegetables, and getting good sleep
We also talk about:
- personal growth, fitness trends, and the importance of community and mastery in exercise.
- the value of setting achievable goals, tracking progress, and finding joy in the journey.
- the significance of introspection, attitude, and proper technique in exercise.
- how small improvements in various aspects of life can lead to significant growth and improvement
Check Dan out online at: https://danjohnuniversity.com
And check out the Armor Building Formula here: https://danjohnuniversity.com/bookstore
Wanna crush weakness and forge all-day strength, stamina, and resilience WITHOUT any complicated exercises or confusing programs? My world-famous 9-ππππ’π‘π πΎππ‘π‘ππππππ πππ π΅πππ¦π€πππβπ‘ πΆβπππππππ might be just what the proverbial doctor ordered. The moves are so simple and intuitive that you can learn them in 30 seconds or less (so you’ll be off to the races in less time than it took you to read this post), AND it’s designed to be done in conjunction with your regular training – so no need to take a detour; instead, you get to step on the gas toward your goals. Get your own free copy here: http://www.9MinuteChallenge.com Have fun and happy training! – Aleks Salkin
Ep. 465: Dan John talks the Armor Building Formula, Goal Setting, Movement, and More (Part 1)
July 11, 2024
I'm joined once again on this episode by the great strength coach and track and field maestro Dan John. Here's what to get giddy about in this episode: Dan John discusses his new book "The Armor Building Formula" and how it takes a practical approach to muscle building The importance of having goals and working…
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I’m joined once again on this episode by the great strength coach and track and field maestro Dan John. Here’s what to get giddy about in this episode:
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Dan John discusses his new book “The Armor Building Formula” and how it takes a practical approach to muscle building
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The importance of having goals and working backwards to achieve them
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Agreeing points between different experts in the fitness field and focusing training around those
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Integrating mobility work, loaded carries, and other fundamentals into a strength-focused program
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Balancing training volume with recovery to ensure long-term consistency
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Relating fitness goals to personal values to stay motivated over the long run
Check Dan out online at: https://danjohnuniversity.com
And check out the Armor Building Formula here: https://danjohnuniversity.com/bookstore
Wanna crush weakness and forge all-day strength, stamina, and resilience WITHOUT any complicated exercises or confusing programs? My world-famous 9-ππππ’π‘π πΎππ‘π‘ππππππ πππ π΅πππ¦π€πππβπ‘ πΆβπππππππ might be just what the proverbial doctor ordered. The moves are so simple and intuitive that you can learn them in 30 seconds or less (so you’ll be off to the races in less time than it took you to read this post), AND it’s designed to be done in conjunction with your regular training – so no need to take a detour; instead, you get to step on the gas toward your goals. Get your own free copy here: http://www.9MinuteChallenge.com Have fun and happy training! – Aleks Salkin
Ep. 464: 73-year-old SFG II Dr. William Moore on his Secrets of Longevity
July 5, 2024
I'm joined on this episode by Dr. William Moore – an SFG II and medical doctor who dishes on his simple, effective insights for life-long strength and health. In this episode we discuss: Bill's background in swimming, triathlons, and late discovery of kettlebell training Bill's preparation for his StrongFirst level 1 and level 2 kettlebell…
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I’m joined on this episode by Dr. William Moore – an SFG II and medical doctor who dishes on his simple, effective insights for life-long strength and health.
In this episode we discuss:
-
Bill’s background in swimming, triathlons, and late discovery of kettlebell training
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Bill’s preparation for his StrongFirst level 1 and level 2 kettlebell certifications
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Differences in recovery capacity as we age and how to approach training accordingly
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Emphasis on proper technique, consistency, listening to your body, and gradual progression
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Unilateral exercises and mobility work to address asymmetries and injury prevention
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Examples of effective programs like Simple and Sinister, The Armor Building Complex, and The GAPP
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Encouraging patients/clients to find enjoyable ways to move and stay active long-term
- Much, much more (or should I say, much much MOORE. Get it?)
Wanna crush weakness and forge all-day strength, stamina, and resilience WITHOUT any complicated exercises or confusing programs? My world-famous 9-ππππ’π‘π πΎππ‘π‘ππππππ πππ π΅πππ¦π€πππβπ‘ πΆβπππππππ might be just what the proverbial doctor ordered. The moves are so simple and intuitive that you can learn them in 30 seconds or less (so you’ll be off to the races in less time than it took you to read this post), AND it’s designed to be done in conjunction with your regular training – so no need to take a detour; instead, you get to step on the gas toward your goals. Get your own free copy here: http://www.9MinuteChallenge.com Have fun and happy training! – Aleks Salkin
Ep. 463: Jenny Hendricks on Healing and Revitalizing the Body Through Real Food
June 27, 2024
I'm joined on this episode by city slicker turned farm girl Jenny Hendricks, who shares her incredible journey from being sickly, weak, and on the path to Death's Door, only to discover the power of eating as nature intended, which not only healed her various illnesses, but has also allowed her to make her life's…
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I’m joined on this episode by city slicker turned farm girl Jenny Hendricks, who shares her incredible journey from being sickly, weak, and on the path to Death’s Door, only to discover the power of eating as nature intended, which not only healed her various illnesses, but has also allowed her to make her life’s mission helping others with seemingly undiagnosable ailments.
In this episode we also talk about:
* Jenny’s brush with near death, including hair loss, rapid and unexplained weight loss, and how doctors couldn’t tell her what was wrong with her. * Her journey into (and out of) veganism as a way of restoring her health * “You are not just what you eat, you are whatever you EAT eats!” How animal protein quality as well as fruit and vegetable quality can potentially wreak havoc on your hormones – whether you’re a man or a woman. * The woman who was infertile for many years – until she improved her food quality and (in her early 40s) finally gave birth to a healthy baby boy! * How Jenny uses kettlebells to stay strong, limber, and lean for her long and arduous days working on her farm * Much, much more
Check Jenny out online at www.hendricksfarmmcbeanga.com
Wanna crush weakness and forge all-day strength, stamina, and resilience WITHOUT any complicated exercises or confusing programs? My world-famous 9-ππππ’π‘π πΎππ‘π‘ππππππ πππ π΅πππ¦π€πππβπ‘ πΆβπππππππ might be just what the proverbial doctor ordered. The moves are so simple and intuitive that you can learn them in 30 seconds or less (so you’ll be off to the races in less time than it took you to read this post), AND it’s designed to be done in conjunction with your regular training – so no need to take a detour; instead, you get to step on the gas toward your goals. Get your own free copy here: http://www.9MinuteChallenge.com Have fun and happy training! – Aleks Salkin