The Biggest Thing I Learned From The 2x Fittest Man In The NFL
Over the past 14 months, I've had the incredible opportunity to train with Steve Weatherford, a true powerhouse in the NFL, named the Fittest Man not just once, but twice. During this time, I've gained invaluable insights, but there's one lesson that stands out above all else. Steve's unwavering focus on stretching and mobility work has not only elevated his own performance but also taught me the importance of prioritizing flexibility in my training. At 40 years old, Steve's ability to do the splits and complete an Ironman with minimal training is a testament to the power of mobility. Today, I'm excited to share with you the dynamic warm-up routine we follow daily before lifting, a routine that can transform your training and help prevent injuries.
Steve's Dynamic Warmup Routine:
Start with 100 bodyweight lunges, 50 for each leg, to activate and strengthen your lower body.
Continue with these essential stretches:
- Hamstring Scoops (7 reps) to increase hamstring flexibility.
- Quad Pulls (7 reps) to engage and prepare your quadriceps for the workout ahead.
- Single Leg Walking Hamstring Stretch (7 reps) to enhance hamstring mobility.
- The Hip Rotator Chair Stretch (7 reps) to open up your hip rotators and improve flexibility.
- Lunges With Rotation (7 reps) to boost core strength and rotational stability.
- The Hip Flexor Crawl With Rotation (7 reps) to release tension in your hip flexors and enhance hip mobility.
- Hamstring High Kicks (7 reps) to dynamically stretch your hamstrings and prepare them for activity.
- Finish the warmup with two variations of leg swings for each leg, a dynamic stretch that enhances hip mobility and warms up the hip and leg muscles.
The lessons learned from training with Steve Weatherford go beyond the football field. His focus on stretching and mobility has taught me the importance of flexibility in achieving peak performance and preventing injuries. Incorporating Steve's Dynamic Warmup into your routine can be a game-changer for your training, whether you're gearing up for your first marathon or eyeing your next ultramarathon challenge.
Many of you commented on my Instagram post, expressing concern about not having enough time for this warm-up routine. I want to assure you that the entire warmup takes just 10-15 minutes. It's a small investment that will pay off immensely in the long run, allowing you to perform at your best and stay injury-free.
If you want to watch the routine via video, check it out on my Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/p/CuUcmujLLEO/. So, embrace the power of mobility, and run your race with renewed strength, endurance, and resilience. Start your journey towards greatness today with Steve's Dynamic Warmup! 👊🏽