Training Memories/ History Part 2

Hi all,

Yesterday, I was handed some bodybuilding magazines dating back to the 40’s and 50’s from an old friend (a weight trainer who’s now in his 70’s!). I’ve only skim read them, but it’s great to see physiques slightly reminiscent of the “natural” scene today (I may be being a little kind). It’s also great that 'bodybuilding' is referred to by its more traditional name of ‘physical culture’, which sounds so, so much better. Anyway, there are some great workouts, stories and articles in there from some of the historical greats of weight training and physical culture. On occasion, I’ll pick through some of the better bits and post them to our newsletter. Here’s a good one for you, a shoulder workout by 1950 ‘Mr Belgium’ (note: and a 'Veterans' class winner in the 80's!) Georges Dardene...

Click to enlarge.

All of these exercises, excluding Around-the-Worlds/ Stiff-Arm Circles (I'm not too keen on this exercise!), can be found amongst my shoulder exercises demonstrations at the link below:

Shoulder Exercise Demonstrations

All the best,

GP

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Author of the bestseller Gym Workouts Maps to Success

Training Memories

My first pair of dumbbells :)

Hi all,

Visiting my Mum and Dad this week and searching through some old stuff, I was fortunate to stumble across my first pair of dumbbells (see image. I cleaned them up before taking this photo). This find brought back some very happy memories of when I was about 13 performing infinite reps of curls, press-ups, sit-ups and chinning off the door frame by my fingertips. My Dad then went on to remind me of a family holiday (I was 14 years old) where he was persuaded to perform a 100 mile round trip everyday to visit the nearest gym so I could keep up my training. Well, I’m pleased to say that, all these years later, I’m just as dedicated ;) .

If you’re a seasoned trainer, you’ll know how much weight training and general fitness has enriched your life. If you’re new to this game, enjoy the journey ahead. Either way, we’ll be on hand with free advice and training ideas to help you get the most from your training.

If you’ve got any old pictures (or stories) that bring back training memories (things like rickety old benches, iron boots, arm blasters etc.), please share them on our Facebook Fan Page wall.

All the best,

GP

Author of Gym Workouts Maps to Success

Inventor of Gym Professor Shuffle workout app