17 Comments
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Michael Cadra's avatar

A more recent example would be Marc Marinovich and his ProBodX system. Light (20 lb or less) weights but full body work concentrating on neuromuscular adaptation, flexibility and speed. RIP Marv

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Scott Shetler's avatar

Marv was a great coach, really enjoyed learning about his methods.

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maurile's avatar

I highly recommend David Bolton's book, The Lost Secret to a Great Body. That's what made the light dumbbell system make sense to me. (Most people demonstrating it on YouTube are missing some things by reading Attila and Sandow with modern assumptions.)

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Scott Shetler's avatar

Thank you for the recommendation and comment, I appreciate it!

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Javier manly's avatar

This sounds similar to what Leonard Schwartz made with his Heavyhands system. I have one of his books.

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Scott Shetler's avatar

Very similar! Dr. Schwartz was brilliant, and a physical specimen!

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Javier manly's avatar

His physical transformation is crazy.

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Scott Shetler's avatar

100%

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Bharat Bhatia's avatar

One thing cool about light weights is you can combine with stretch, for example. Iron Yoga is one example. I also like to sometimes use light dumbbells during runs.

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Scott Shetler's avatar

Yes! Have you ever come across Dr. Len Schwartz and panaerobic exercise heavy hands system? If not check it out!

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Kyle Shepard's avatar

I’m going to try to make my eyes bleed with a 5lb dumbbell now just to show the bros what’s up

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Scott Shetler's avatar

Seriously the greatest comment ever!

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Kyle Shepard's avatar

😂👊🏻

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Adam Zucker's avatar

Great post. There's definitely been a revival to this approach, especially within kettlebell sport, where the mind-body connection is really emphasized through choreographed flows using light to medium bells. Like you've described, the "either or" debate is often short-sighted. Both light weights with controlled, rhythmic form and heavy lifting are essential for well rounded results.

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Scott Shetler's avatar

Excellent points Adam! Do, or did you, ever compete in KB sport? I did for a while back around 2008-2013. Thanks!

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Adam Zucker's avatar

That’s awesome, Scott! Do you miss competing? I’ve never considered it, I am pretty much a recluse in my fitness training.

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Scott Shetler's avatar

Yeah sometimes. There's a camaraderie at kettlebell sport and powerlifting meets that is awesome, the people, the environment, it's really cool. I have no real desire to compete again though, as my goals are more health based and less performance based. I like working out in my private gym and training with my jiu-jitsu crew-nothing else needed at this point!

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