A good friend of mine from college Martin Rooney has quite a resume. He has lectured to Olympic coaches and athletes all over the world, he has trained football players for the NFL combine, he is a co-founder of the Parisi Speed School, and now he has begun a new venture Training for Warriors. He recently posted a blog that I really liked.
He poses the question: Why do we have to make things so hard in fitness and nutrition? There is so much misinformation, so much great information, and so many experts. It can be very confusing. I have always hoped to help people see how simple it really is.
Many people are struggling with their health. It may be you or someone you care for. Martin says, “you don’t have to give someone a rocket ship when all they need is a row boat.” You have to start somewhere. I totally agree. Martin says there are two basics he knows have worked for him - Deadlifts and Broccoli.
Why deadlifts? It is a super functional movement that is easy to perform. It will make your whole body strong from your feet through your finger tips! You have to be able to bend and pick stuff up so you might as well deadlift. You can keep setting personal records for a long time.
Why broccoli? Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable and cruciferous vegetables are arguably the most healthy plants we can eat. Broccoli is a major cancer fighter full of antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, vitamins and minerals. Maybe you think you don’t like broccoli. Try some steamed to fork tender, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and season with sea salt. Just ask my son if you don’t like it... just add olive oil and salt and you will like it. Give it a try!
So, how do you get started? As Martin says, “add more weight to your bar more and more broccoli to your plate!” It is not the end all, be all, but is a starting point and the most important thing is getting started!