The Testify Star - March 2, 2026

THIS WEEK'S SUBMISSION

From our video The Gym Gear Nobody Talks About... But Everyone Needs. (click the title to watch):

MrJake719
Hello! I’ve been to a couple of your camps, and the last one you commented that I pushed the cues a little too far. That was great feedback. The one I’m trying to correct is pushing my Kees out too far on squat. Do you have a solo lifter cue to keep knees right above toes? Thanks!

Phil
Hey there, Jake - good to hear from you! If you're shoving the knees apart too far (i.e., knees tracking outside your toes), you can cue "knees forward" or even "knees in" (that's a bit of an overcue, but it can be useful).

Also, you might try watching the video we did a while back on the TUBOW and using that to help the problem:
TUBOW: The Portable Squat Coach
https://youtu.be/_wEF-YDesaw

MrJake719
@T@TestifySCI’ll try it, thank you. Take care!

Phil
You're welcome, and you as well!


TESTIFY ONLINE COACHING

Interested in getting stronger working one-on-one remotely with us? Click here to book your free strategy session.

Get Stronger. Live Better. Start Today.


ARTICLES & VIDEOS

The Gym Gear Nobody Talks About... But Everyone Needs.
Anyone can show up and lift. Training, however, requires intention - and a few specific items almost no one talks about. We break down the overlooked gym gear that makes the difference between exercising and actually getting stronger. Click here to watch.

 

Stop Using Your Arms to Deadlift
Don't make this mistake with your arms when you deadlift. Phil covers how to identify the problem as well as how to fix it. Click here to read.

 

Blast from the Past: Never Make This Squat Mistake Again! | Fast Fix
This squat mistake either makes you look ignorant or it makes you look like you're compensating for something. Either way, it's not a good look. Let’s fix it. Click here to watch.

 

Blast from the Past: Why Your Press is Weak: Fix Your Unrack and Grip with this Simple Mnemonic Device
Struggling with the press? Phil gives you a simple mnemonic device to help you fix your unrack and your grip - it'll pay big dividends. Click here to read.


TESTIFY CAMPFIRE MUGS ARE AVAILABLE!

For lifters who train hard . . . and like a little campfire-style to go along with their training sessions. Durable, no-frills, and proudly wearing the Testify logo. From campsite to squat rack, this mug's for you.

Click here to head to the Testify Store.


WHAT'S COMING UP

Below are a few of our upcoming events, and you can find out what else is on the calendar by heading to our events page at www.testifysc.com/events.

Testify Strengthlifting Challenge

  • April 11, 2026

  • The annual Testify Strengthlifting Challenge is back, and we invite you to be a part of it! This is a strengthlifting meet, which means the contested lifts will be the squat, press, and deadlift.

  • Click here to register or for more information.

Testify Barbell MAYhem - The Clean & Press Classic

  • May 1, 2026

  • The annual Barbell MAYhem is back, and this year's event is a Friday night clean-and-press!

  • This is a single-lift weightlifting meet wherein competitors will perform the clean-and-press. Each lifter will receive 3 attempts, and the heaviest successful lift will determine their score.

  • There will be prizes - for feats both serious and outlandish - throughout the night!

  • Click here to register or for more information.


THIS WEEK’S CONDITIONING

Option 1
Sled
Outdoors:
10 rounds of:
Push sled 100 ft
Pull sled 100 ft (hand over hand)

Indoors:
20 rounds of:
Push sled 50 ft
Pull sled 50 ft (hand over hand)

Compare to 2026.01.26.

Option 2
Bike/row:
5 min on
4 min off
4 min on
3 min off
3 min on
2 min off
2 min on
1 min off
1 min on

Record distance for each interval and add for total distance.

Compare to 2025.12.08.

Option 3
5-10 rounds of:
30 sec ME tire flips
30 sec rest

Compare to 2025.11.10.

Option 4
Sandbag-over-bars
Set yoke at #33 for women or #35 for men.
1. 1 minute AMRAP
2. 5 rounds of 2 reps every 2 minutes (speed!)
3. 1 minute AMRAP

Weights
Female under 40 years
140 lbs and under: 75 lbs
140.1 lbs – 185 lbs: 100 lbs
185.1 lbs and over: 150 lbs

Female 40 years and over
140 lbs and under: 50 lbs
185 lbs and under: 75 lbs
185.1 lbs and over: 100 lbs

Male under 40 years
185 lbs and under: 150 lbs
185.1 lbs – 235 lbs: 200 lbs
235.1 lbs and over: 250 lbs

Male 40 years and over
185 lbs and under: 100 lbs
185.1 lbs – 235 lbs: 150 lbs
235.1 lbs and over: 200 lbs

Compare to 2025.11.10.


As always, we hope this helps you get stronger and live better!

Whenever you want even more Testify in your life, here are some free resources:

  • Book a free intro and strategy session with us HERE.

  • Pick up a free copy of Testify’s Squat Guide: 12 Tips to Improve Your Squat Now HERE.

  • Get our free weekly email - containing useful videos, articles, and training tips - HERE.

  • Follow Testify on Instagram HERE.

  • Subscribe to Testify’s YouTube channel HERE.

The Testify Chronicle - February 23, 2026

THIS WEEK'S SUBMISSION

From our video Can One Simple Tool Really Prevent Weakness in Seniors? (click the title to watch):

* Tennesseered
I'm a 74 y.o. man. After 22 months of barbell training, I back squat 1.2 times my bodyweight for reps of five, and deadlift 1.65 times my bodyweight for reps of five. I feel strong and light and full of energy. I was recently told that I look fit and strong. Admittedly, it was my wife who told me that but who matters more than her? Barbell training really works and it's fun. Not easy, but fun.

Phil
Well said on so many fronts!

Matthew Strauts
Awesome!!! Wish more knew and pursued its benefits


TESTIFY ONLINE COACHING

Interested in getting stronger working one-on-one remotely with us? Click here to book your free strategy session.

Get Stronger. Live Better. Start Today.


ARTICLES & VIDEOS

Can One Simple Tool Really Prevent Weakness in Seniors?
Can one simple tool really help prevent weakness and frailty as we age? Phil explains what that tool is and why it's so powerful. Click here to watch.

 

The Best Training Advice That Nobody Thinks to Use
Thinking about skipping a workout or cutting a set short? Before you do, ask yourself one simple question: What would I tell my kids? The answer might be the best training advice you’ve ever received. Click here to read.

 

Blast from the Past: Get a BIGGER Squat Now with 3 SIMPLE Tips!
Phil covers 3 easy and quick ways to improve your squat and start setting new PRs right now. Click here to watch.

 

Blast from the Past: Wrist Wraps: What, Why, When, and How!
We cover the basics of wrist wraps - what they are, why you use them, when to use them, and how to use them. Click here to read.


TESTIFY CAMPFIRE MUGS ARE AVAILABLE!

For lifters who train hard . . . and like a little campfire-style to go along with their training sessions. Durable, no-frills, and proudly wearing the Testify logo. From campsite to squat rack, this mug's for you.

Click here to head to the Testify Store.


WHAT'S COMING UP

A big thank you goes out to everyone who showed up at the fish fry this past Friday evening — food, drinks, and conviviality were had by all! Be sure to keep your eyes open for more fun events like this, and speaking of events . . .

Below are a few of our upcoming events, and you can find out what else is on the calendar by heading to our events page at www.testifysc.com/events.

Testify Strengthlifting Challenge

  • April 11, 2026

  • The annual Testify Strengthlifting Challenge is back, and we invite you to be a part of it! This is a strengthlifting meet, which means the contested lifts will be the squat, press, and deadlift.

  • Click here to register or for more information.

Testify Barbell MAYhem - The Clean & Press Classic

  • May 1, 2026

  • The annual Barbell MAYhem is back, and this year's event is a Friday night clean-and-press!

  • This is a single-lift weightlifting meet wherein competitors will perform the clean-and-press. Each lifter will receive 3 attempts, and the heaviest successful lift will determine their score.

  • There will be prizes - for feats both serious and outlandish - throughout the night!

  • Click here to register or for more information.


THIS WEEK’S CONDITIONING

Option 1
Sled Pyramid – 4, 5, or 6 tiers
Go up and down a 4, 5, or 6 tier “sled pyramid” – rest as needed. The distance for each round is 80 m indoors (a down-back on the 40m course) or 200 ft outdoors (2 down-backs on the 50 ft course). Rest as needed.

For example, Bob does the following (4 tiers):
Round 1: Empty sled
Round 2: 25#
Round 3: 50#
Round 4: 75#
Round 5: 50#
Round 6: 25#
Round 7: Empty sled

Compare to 2026.01.19.

Option 2
5 rounds:
10 cal bike
1 min rest
4 sandbag-over-bars
1 min rest

Set the yoke crossmember at 35/33, and the weight is 150#/75#.

Compare to 2025.12.01.

Option 3
Outdoors:
5-10 rounds:
10 sledgehammer strikes (5R, 5L)
50 yd farmer carry (25 yd down-back)
Rest 1 minute

Indoors:
5-10 rounds:
10 sledgehammer strikes (5R, 5L)
100 ft farmer carry (50 ft down-back)
Rest 1 minute

Compare to 2025.11.03.

Option 4
1. 5 yoke carries @ 30 yd (15 yd downback) – work up to heaviest carry
2. 5 rounds of 5 reps on the axle “clean and press away” – work up to heavy set of 5

Compare to 2025.10.03.


As always, we hope this helps you get stronger and live better!

Whenever you want even more Testify in your life, here are some free resources:

  • Book a free intro and strategy session with us HERE.

  • Pick up a free copy of Testify’s Squat Guide: 12 Tips to Improve Your Squat Now HERE.

  • Get our free weekly email - containing useful videos, articles, and training tips - HERE.

  • Follow Testify on Instagram HERE.

  • Subscribe to Testify’s YouTube channel HERE.

The Testify Tribune - February 16, 2026

THIS WEEK'S SUBMISSION

From our video 8 Unavoidable Truths About Seniors and Lifting Weights… (click the title to watch):

Garth Wunsch
81 now. Just started barbell training. Hated gyms all my life, but have been convinced this is the right thing for me. I want to be able to continue gardening and looking after myself, my wife, and our home. Somebody gotta shovel the snow, and grow the carrots and potatoes. Still don’t require any meds, and I want to keep it that way. I’m watching lots of videos, and found this one very good.

Phil
Thanks, Garth, and way to start training – your motivation is spot on.


TESTIFY ONLINE COACHING

Interested in getting stronger working one-on-one remotely with us? Click here to book your free strategy session.

Get Stronger. Live Better. Start Today.


ARTICLES & VIDEOS

It Sounds Wrong, but This Cue Drastically Improves Deadlift Strength
One simple and counterintuitive cue can radically improve your deadlift. Phil covers how focusing on this single concept can boost your deadlift, and he also explains why it works. Click here to watch.

 

Want Your Press to Go Up? Make It Go Down First.
Struggling to drive your press up? Maybe you’re quite literally trying to take it in the wrong direction. We explain and give a cue that can help. Click here to read.

 

Blast from the Past: What You Should NEVER Do When Deadlifting!
Are you making this mistake when deadlifting? Well . . . don't. Let's fix it. Click here to watch.

 

Blast from the Past: Struggling to Finish Deadlift Sets? The 2nd Rep Holds the Answer
In the deadlift, a unique phenomenon occurs on the 2nd rep. Phil explains what happens, why it happens, and how you can take advantage of it. Click here to read.


TESTIFY TRUCKER CAPS ARE AVAILABLE!

Represent your favorite gym with this trucker cap in several color options - perfect for outdoors or a training session.

Click here to head to the Testify Store.


WHAT'S COMING UP

Below are a few of our upcoming events, and you can find out what else is on the calendar by heading to our events page at www.testifysc.com/events.

Testify Strengthlifting Challenge

  • April 11, 2026

  • The annual Testify Strengthlifting Challenge is back, and we invite you to be a part of it! This is a strengthlifting meet, which means the contested lifts will be the squat, press, and deadlift.

  • Click here to register or for more information.

Testify Goes Fishing! (ahem, fish-frying)

  • February 20, 2026

  • Friday night fish fry at Saint Vincent de Paul (click here for map)

  • Meet at 6:30 p.m. for fun, fish, beer, and to get your name put in the hat for drawings!

  • Click here for more details and to sign up so we’ve got a headcount.


THIS WEEK’S CONDITIONING

Option 1
“Prowler Base+1”
1. Load up a manageable weight.
2. Sprint 40m at 85% intensity.
3. Rest 30 sec.
4. Repeat 5-15 times.

Courtesy of “Death by Prowler” (on Starting Strength).

Compare to 2026.01.12.

Option 2
Bike/Row for 9 rounds:
1 min on
1 min off

Record distance for each round.

Compare to 2025.11.24.

Option 3
Outdoors:
10 rounds:
25 yd yoke carry
Rest 1 minute

Indoors:
10 rounds:
30 yd yoke carry (15 yd down-back)
Rest 1 minute

Compare to 2025.10.27.

Option 4
10 x 50 ft farmer carry
Each carry is 25 ft down and 25 ft back and is for time. Rest 1 minute between carries.

Women: 97# per handle (80# of plates)
Men: 137# per handle (120# of plates)
(Note: Each handle weighs 17#.)

Compare to 2025.10.27.


As always, we hope this helps you get stronger and live better!

Whenever you want even more Testify in your life, here are some free resources:

  • Book a free intro and strategy session with us HERE.

  • Pick up a free copy of Testify’s Squat Guide: 12 Tips to Improve Your Squat Now HERE.

  • Get our free weekly email - containing useful videos, articles, and training tips - HERE.

  • Follow Testify on Instagram HERE.

  • Subscribe to Testify’s YouTube channel HERE.

Testify Optimist - February 9, 2026

THIS WEEK'S SUBMISSION

From our video 8 Unavoidable Truths About Seniors and Lifting Weights… (click the title to watch):

P Holzman
There are YouTube experts out there today saying people over 50 shouldn't do full squats, deadlift, bench press or overhead press... I am 72 and do those things and weight lifting has improved my joint and flexibility problems accumulated by a long career sitting at a desk.

Phil
Thanks very much for that testimony!

KathyMinTexas
Agree! There are also medical experts who say the same thing. I was diagnosed with osteoporosis and the medical team wanted me to take a medication (that causes significant side effects) and walk more. There are studies that say otherwise--they've proven that lifting weight, heavy weight (squats, deadlifts, presses, etc) increases bone density and obviously build strength & balance. I may have to take medication, but I'm trying the weight lifting first!

P Holzman
@kathymintexas1556I'm a retired Pathologist,. We were taught in Med School that you should never squat below 90 degrees. I do, that has been completely debunked.

Many of the things I learned in my professional training have proven to be wrong over the years.


TESTIFY ONLINE COACHING

Interested in getting stronger working one-on-one remotely with us? Click here to book your free strategy session.

Get Stronger. Live Better. Start Today.


ARTICLES & VIDEOS

How Many Lifters Are Actually Using the Wrong Grip on Bench Press and Press?
Are you using the right grip on the bench press and press? Many lifters aren’t—and it’s costing them strength and consistency. We give you the grip that sets you up for stronger, more effective lifts. Click here to watch.

 

Stop Using Your Back Like This (How to Squat Correctly)
Are you making this mistake with your back when getting ready to squat? Phil covers how to identify the problem as well as how to fix it. Click here to read.

 

Blast from the Past: Do CrossFitters Make the Best Deadlifters?!
What are CrossFitters good at when it comes to the deadlift, and how can this help you improve your deadlift? Click here to watch.

 

Blast from the Past: The Deadlift Setup Mistake That Makes Lifters Look Ridiculous
Are you that guy (or girl) who looks like he's dry-heaving when setting up to pull? Cut it out. Phil helps you fix this problem. Click here to read.


TESTIFY TRUCKER CAPS ARE AVAILABLE!

Represent your favorite gym with this trucker cap in several color options - perfect for outdoors or a training session.

Click here to head to the Testify Store.


WHAT'S COMING UP

Below are a few of our upcoming events, and you can find out what else is on the calendar by heading to our events page at www.testifysc.com/events.

Testify Strengthlifting Challenge

  • April 11, 2026

  • The annual Testify Strengthlifting Challenge is back, and we invite you to be a part of it! This is a strengthlifting meet, which means the contested lifts will be the squat, press, and deadlift.

  • Click here to register or for more information.

Testify Goes Fishing! (ahem, fish-frying)

  • February 20, 2026

  • Friday night fish fry at Saint Vincent de Paul (click here for map)

  • Meet at 6:30 p.m. for fun, fish, beer, and to get your name put in the hat for drawings!

  • Click here for more details and to sign up so we’ve got a headcount.


THIS WEEK’S CONDITIONING

Option 1
“Prowler Base”
1. Load up a manageable weight.
2. Sprint 40m at 85% intensity.
3. Rest until breathing and heart rate slow down. (45 sec – 2 min)
4. Repeat 5-15 times.

Courtesy of “Death by Prowler” (on Starting Strength).

Compare to 2026.01.05.

Option 2
Bike/row:
3 rounds of:
8 x 20 sec on/40 sec off
Rest 3 min between rounds

Score = lowest distance

Compare to 2025.11.17.

Option 3
Outdoors:
5-10 rounds:
10 sledgehammer strikes (5R, 5L)
50 yd farmer carry (25 yd down-back)
Rest 1 minute

Indoors:
5-10 rounds:
10 sledgehammer strikes (5R, 5L)
100 ft farmer carry (50 ft down-back)
Rest 1 minute

Compare to 2025.10.20.

Option 4
10 x 50 ft yoke carry
Each carry is 25 feet down and 25 feet back and is for time. Rest 1 minute between carries.

Compare to 2025.10.20.


As always, we hope this helps you get stronger and live better!

Whenever you want even more Testify in your life, here are some free resources:

  • Book a free intro and strategy session with us HERE.

  • Pick up a free copy of Testify’s Squat Guide: 12 Tips to Improve Your Squat Now HERE.

  • Get our free weekly email - containing useful videos, articles, and training tips - HERE.

  • Follow Testify on Instagram HERE.

  • Subscribe to Testify’s YouTube channel HERE.

Testify Independent - February 2, 2026

THIS WEEK'S SUBMISSION

From our video 8 Unavoidable Truths About Seniors and Lifting Weights… (click the title to watch):

Mat Mackenzie
This stuff should be in public service films. People need to know this - for themselves, and for a more independent society in general.

Phil
Thanks, Mat!


TESTIFY ONLINE COACHING

Interested in getting stronger working one-on-one remotely with us? Click here to book your free strategy session.

Get Stronger. Live Better. Start Today.


ARTICLES & VIDEOS

8 Unavoidable Truths About Seniors and Lifting Weights…
Bad advice wastes time and holds people back. We cover eight unavoidable truths about seniors and lifting weights so you don’t fall for the same myths twice. Click here to watch.

 

3 Pieces of Gym Gear That Separate Beginners from Serious Lifters
If your gym bag only has shoes and earbuds, you’re probably just exercising. Exercise is certainly better than nothing - but if you actually train, then you show up with a few specific tools that quietly separate progress from plateaus. Click here to read.

 

Blast from the Past: Never Make This Belt Mistake Again! | Fast Fix
If you use a belt when lifting - and you should - you're going to make this mistake eventually. Learn to prevent it in a few short minutes. Click here to watch.

 

Blast from the Past: Stop Destroying Your Squat - Do This Instead
Stop raising your chest early in the squat - it makes for a weaker squat. If you struggle to drive your hips up, Phil provides a simple fix. Click here to read.


TESTIFY TRUCKER CAPS ARE AVAILABLE!

Represent your favorite gym with this trucker cap in several color options - perfect for outdoors or a training session.

Click here to head to the Testify Store.


WHAT'S COMING UP

Below is one of our upcoming events, and you can find out what else is on the calendar by heading to our events page at www.testifysc.com/events.

Testify Strengthlifting Challenge

  • April 11, 2026

  • The annual Testify Strengthlifting Challenge is back, and we invite you to be a part of it! This is a strengthlifting meet, which means the contested lifts will be the squat, press, and deadlift.

  • Click here to register or for more information.


THIS WEEK’S CONDITIONING

Option 1
Sled
Outdoors:
10-20 x 25 yds EMOM at a weight of your choice

Every minute, push the sled 25 yards, i.e., if pushing the sled takes 20 seconds, then you have 40 seconds to rest. Perform 10-20 rounds.

Indoors:
10-20 x 100 ft EMOM at a weight of your choice

Every minute, push the sled 100 feet, i.e., if pushing the sled takes 20 seconds, then you have 40 seconds to rest. Perform 10-20 rounds.

Compare to 2025.12.29.

Option 2
Bike/row:
12 min TT

Score = distance

Compare to 2025.11.10.

Option 3
5-10 rounds of:
30 sec ME tire flips
30 sec rest

Compare to 2025.10.13.

Option 4
For time:
500m row
5 x 80m sled push (200 ft if indoors)
500m row

Rest 1 minute after the first row and after each sled push.

Compare to 2025.10.13.


As always, we hope this helps you get stronger and live better!

Whenever you want even more Testify in your life, here are some free resources:

  • Book a free intro and strategy session with us HERE.

  • Pick up a free copy of Testify’s Squat Guide: 12 Tips to Improve Your Squat Now HERE.

  • Get our free weekly email - containing useful videos, articles, and training tips - HERE.

  • Follow Testify on Instagram HERE.

  • Subscribe to Testify’s YouTube channel HERE.

Testify Sounder - January 26, 2026

THIS WEEK'S SUBMISSION

From our video When Deadlifting Heavy, Don't Stand Up & Try This Instead (click the title to watch):

Greg Blundell
This explanation is great, thank you, can easily see from 4:00 that those steps lock in the start position without any room for getting it wrong, fantastic!

Phil
Thanks very much - I'm glad you found it useful!


TESTIFY ONLINE COACHING

Interested in getting stronger working one-on-one remotely with us? Click here to book your free strategy session.

Get Stronger. Live Better. Start Today.


ARTICLES & VIDEOS

What Most Lifters Never Learn About Weight Lifting Plates (15 facts)
Confused about weight lifting plates, kilgrams vs pounds, metal plates vs bumpers, numbers in vs numbers out, etc.? Phil covers it all and clears up the confusion. Click here to watch.

 

When Your Press Feels Off, Try This One Small Cue Instead
When your press feels off, and you're having issues with your bar path, try this one small cue and get your press back on track fast. Click here to read.

 

Blast from the Past: Weak Bench Press? QUICK FIX
Are you making this mistake with your shoulders when you bench? We help you diagnose the problem, learn why it's bad, and fix it fast. Click here to watch.

 

Blast from the Past: Stop Fighting Your Knee Sleeves. There's a Better Way. (shhh…it’s a secret)
Stop struggling to get your knee sleeves on! Phil teaches you this super secret method - it's simple and easy. Click here to read.


TESTIFY TRUCKER CAPS ARE AVAILABLE!

Represent your favorite gym with this trucker cap in several color options - perfect for outdoors or a training session.

Click here to head to the Testify Store.


WHAT'S COMING UP

Below is one of our upcoming events, and you can find out what else is on the calendar by heading to our events page at www.testifysc.com/events.

Testify Strengthlifting Challenge

  • April 11, 2026

  • The annual Testify Strengthlifting Challenge is back, and we invite you to be a part of it! This is a strengthlifting meet, which means the contested lifts will be the squat, press, and deadlift.

  • Click here to register or for more information.


THIS WEEK’S CONDITIONING

Option 1
Sled
Outdoors:
10 rounds of:
Push sled 100 ft
Pull sled 100 ft (hand over hand)

Indoors:
20 rounds of:
Push sled 50 ft
Pull sled 50 ft (hand over hand)

Compare to 2025.12.22.

Option 2
Bike/row:
8 x 30 sec on/2:00 off

Score = least distance covered in any 30 second interval

Compare to 2025.11.03.

Option 3
Outdoors:
5-10 rounds:
50 yd sled push (25 yd down-back)
50 yd farmer carry (25 yd down-back)
Rest 1 min

Indoors:
5-10 rounds:
100 yd sled push (50 ft down-back)
100 yd farmer carry (50 ft down-back)
Rest 1 min

Compare to 2025.10.06.

Option 4
Row 10 x 100m
Rest 1 min between sprints. Your score is your slowest time.

Compare to 2025.10.06.


As always, we hope this helps you get stronger and live better!

Whenever you want even more Testify in your life, here are some free resources:

  • Book a free intro and strategy session with us HERE.

  • Pick up a free copy of Testify’s Squat Guide: 12 Tips to Improve Your Squat Now HERE.

  • Get our free weekly email - containing useful videos, articles, and training tips - HERE.

  • Follow Testify on Instagram HERE.

  • Subscribe to Testify’s YouTube channel HERE.