I don't think this is done enough. A big thank you to Randall Strossand

[Andy Austin]

I know the introduction board would have been more appropriate, but as there are more people reading this one I figured I would post it here.


- First since it's the most relevant, for this forum. Getting to pick the brain of some of the true "big boys" in the game is such a blessing. Moreover, hearing the stories that guys like Mr Wood can tell gives such an insight into the history behind what we do.

- Second, for the site itself. The articles you have posted for free are more valuable than what most charge for. Really? I get to get info from Brookfield and Jeck et all and don't pay for it? Wow.

- Third, your catalogs, which inspire me more to go lift heavy things than anything I'd pay for

- Fourth, your gear...quite a few pieces of which I've picked up over the years, all of which is bombproof, functional, and the standard by which all other training gear should be measured.

Without even knowing me, since 1995, you've helped turn me into a guy who will spend the rest of his life searching for the answers to the riddle of rock, iron, and steel.

I say this as I'm donning my 270kg "no no no" t shirt (I still want to slap Ivan for making that look so...well...casual) LOL

Thanks for indulging me in this. I just thought it needed to be said.

[Bill Crawford]

Amen! Very well said.

[Randall Strossen]

Thank you very much - we like what we do and are lucky to have guys like you who like the same stuff, too.

That 270 kg x 3 no-no-no squat by Ivan Chakarov is burned into my brain and it remains one of my favorites all the photos I've taken over the years - glad you're wearing that T-shirt, Andy!

[Andy Austin]

Thank you very much - we like what we do and are lucky to have guys like you who like the same stuff, too.

That 270 kg x 3 no-no-no squat by Ivan Chakarov is burned into my brain and it remains one of my favorites all the photos I've taken over the years - glad you're wearing that T-shirt, Andy!


Ivan has a look on his face which almost seems to say "Chicken or beef tonight? I cannot decide..." :;lh)

I also love the frame by frame of Taranenko's 255C&J.

I must also put it out there that my all time best set of squats was done using a buffalo bar on one of Sorin's racks while I was on the U of Memphis strength staff in Spring of 96. 365 for 14.......and immediately stumbling over to the garbage can after that!!!