The Testify Examiner - September 22, 2025
/THIS WEEK'S SUBMISSION
From our video 99% of Lifters Don't Know These Training Tricks (click the title to watch):
fastbusiness
Great tips. I learned a few new things. One other suggestion; mention that there is no point in taking several steps back away from the rack when doing squats. Sometimes, when exhausted from a heavy set it is hard to take one step back to the rack, even more so when you're 4 or 5 ft. away from it.
Phil
That would have been an excellent addition. We’ve done a video or two on that in the past, and that would’ve been a good thing to add to this list.
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ARTICLES & VIDEOS
99% of Lifters Don't Know These Training Tricks
Most lifters are leaving progress on the table without realizing it. Phil covers 12 overlooked training tactics, techniques, and tricks that can change the way you approach the bar. Watch this before your next session — your future PRs will thank you. Click here to watch.
You're (Probably) Destroying Your Squat . . . Before You Even Start.
Is your soft, sloppy unrack destroying your squat before you even start the first rep? Let's find out. Click here to read.
Blast from the Past: LIFTING BELTS: The Complete Guide and What NOT to Get! (Lifting Gear Series)
We cover everything related to lifting belts - why, how, what, where, when, and what NOT to buy as well. This is the second video in our "Lifting Gear" series. Click here to watch.
Blast from the Past: Warning: Tire Conditioning May Cause Unstoppable Swagger
Phil covers a few options for incorporating tire work into your conditioning. Click here to read.
“GET STRONGER - LIVE BETTER” SHIRTS ARE AVAILABLE!
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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.
Friday Night Fun Night: Trivia Teams!
Join us for the first-ever Testify Friday Night Fun Night: Trivia Teams from 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. on Friday, September 26!
Grab your smartest friends (or the ones who make you laugh the most) and join us for a night of trivia, laughs, and good food!
Teams of 3-5 people will compete in a friendly trivia contest with fun prizes up for grabs. You do not need a team to sign up!
We need to know numbers for planning and food, so please click here to RSVP!
Minneapolis, MN: Starting Strength Squat & Deadlift Camp
October 4, 2025
Spend the day learning the theory and practice of the low bar back squat and the deadlift.
Participants will spend lots of time on the platform receiving coaching and instruction on the squat and deadlift in a small group setting. We will also have a lecture and discussion on programming and cover how to identify and correct common technical problems.
Click here to register or for more information.
Kansas City, MO: Starting Strength Squat & Deadlift Camp
October 25, 2025
Spend the day learning the theory and practice of the low bar back squat and the deadlift.
Participants will spend lots of time on the platform receiving coaching and instruction on the squat and deadlift in a small group setting. We will also have a lecture and discussion on programming and cover how to identify and correct common technical problems.
Click here to register or for more information.
Benching Bonanza! The Annual Testify Bench Press Jubilee
November 21, 2025
Benching Bonanza is a strength meet wherein the only contested lift is - not surprisingly - the bench press. There will be one bar, and the meet will be conducted in a "rising bar" format, so the weight on the bar only goes up! It’s a great time for all involved, and we hope to see you there!
Click here to register or for more information.
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 2025.08.18.
Option 2
Bike/row:
4 x 3 minutes
Rest 3 minutes between each round. Score = lowest distance.
Compare to 2025.06.30.
Option 3
1. Work up to a heavy single on the axle clean-and-press (i.e., ground to overhead).
2. 5 x 100 ft Zercher carry (50 ft down-back). Add weight each round. Rest as needed.
Compare to 2025.06.02.
Option 4
Outdoors:
5 rounds:
15 cal row
50 yd sled push, 100#/50#
Indoors:
5 rounds:
15 cal row
100 ft sled push, 250#/125#
Push sled slow for recovery. Score is slowest row.
Compare to 2025.06.02.
As always, we hope this helps you get stronger and live better!
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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.
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