I’ve heard many times (have said it too) that when watching a well executed lift; or throw; or team play come together that the act is like a Ballet. Huh, it got me thinking, how many of us use Ballet as the measuring stick of athletic beauty? Or maybe it’s just me. But it’s my blog, so today?
Ballet.
I have always been in awe of Baryshnikov. When I was young and stupid boys would make fun of a “man in tights jumping around” I would honestly be confused how they did not see the beauty in him. I’m guessing those stupid boys either turned into stupid men who never competed at anything or actually grew up and found respect for such amazing feats. Dunno. Don’t care. I adore him.
The first time I saw The Four Little Swans performed live, I almost cried. To this day, I am unable to distinguish four separate ballerinas. They move so effortlessly together as one it’s thrilling for me to watch. Hearing the wooden stomps of their toe shoe tips, every move carefully executed from their necks to their finger tips. Amazing.
Today is for beauty. And awe. And amazing things we get to enjoy.
For training opportunities at tosabarbell, call or text Juli at 320-296-9313. e-mail to jep6095@gmail.com
At tosabarbell, I build relationships cultivated in a strength and learning environment. There is no 12 week magic pill program to strength but rather a lifetime commitment to be the very best and most useful human you can be.
tosabarbell is a private, home grown gym with three lifting platforms; squat rack; prowlers; throwing implements; bars, bumpers and everything else needed for an effective strength and conditioning program. Straightforward barbell programming including the Olympic lifts; sound (read: not fancy bullshit) diet advance for weight gain or loss; and strong coaching will ensure you will meet your goals such as becoming stronger, more explosive, and better conditioned.
I have been coaching teams and athletes for over 30 years. I grew up participating in various sports at various levels but was always drawn to those that require strength training. I have multiple local, national, and world records in the sports of Weightlifting and Highland Games Heavy Events as well as a combined total of 5 World Championships. My 5 years of training and coaching under Mark Rippetoe provided a wide range of influence from some of the top strength & conditioning and throwing coaches in the country. I will strongly encourage tosabarbell athletes to compete (and prepare you to do so.) However, tosabarbell is also for those who wish to be stronger and go through life feeling better.
Matt WanAt is a retired Professional Strongman who competed frequently with Strongman Champions League in Europe. He played a year of D1 football with Iowa before concentrating on his Chemical Engineering degree in Iowa City. He is a native of Wauwatosa and still remains a staunch supporter of Tosa East.
This blog will be a mixture of strength notes, coaching and nutrition tips, personal shit; bacon delicacies, and a whole lot of fun.
tosabarbell 
Oh yes yes yes…..I have never understood how people don’t see the sheer power in ballet….not to mention all those other awe inspiring intangibles.