Tag: Combat

When discussing Korean martial arts, people generally bring up Taekwondo and Hapkido. Leaving out the effective and underrated martial art of Tang Soo Do.

Here’s our breakdown of the Korean martial art known as Tang Soo Do. Detailing how the martial art was developed and its various aspects.

What is Tang Soo Do? 

Tang Soo Do is a Korean martial art that was established in 1944 by Grandmaster Hwang Kee. One of the most important and influential Korean martial arts in history.

TSD is a striking martial art that was influenced by various Korean, Chinese, and Japanese martial arts. One of the martial arts that was the most influential on Tang Soo Do was Karate and Chinese martial arts created within the Shaolin Temple.

The martial art has grown into an internationally practiced form of self-defense that’s practiced by millions worldwide.

The History of Tang Soo Do

Tang Soo Do developed at the same time as Taekwondo and Hapkido in the 1940s. Its development was possible due to the Japanese losing control of Korea during WW2.

Hwang Kee

The martial art of Tang Soo Do was developed by Korean martial artist Hwang Kee. One of the most influential Korean martial artists in history and one of the five founders of modern Korean martial arts. 

Kee first learned the Korean martial art of Taekkyon while he attended school. He wanted to learn more martial arts, but he was limited due to Japan’s law forbidding the practice of Korean martial arts.

His choices were limited due to the Japanese occupation, so he began learning Okinawan Karate. Learning from books that were available in his local library. 

During this time, Kee would also secretly learn and master the Korean martial art of Subak and master Taekkyon. 

Since practicing Korean martial arts was forbidden by the Japanese, Hwang got the attention of the Japanese police. Forcing Hwang to flee to China, where he claimed to have scaled the Great Wall.

To survive, Kee would work on the construction of the Manchurian Railroad. While working on the railroad, he met Chinese martial arts master Yang Kuk Jin.

During his time in China, Kee would learn various Chinese martial arts under Master Yang. Everything from Kuk Sool and Tai Chi Chuan from the Chinese master.

The First Tang Soo Do School

After the Japanese occupation of Korea ended, Kee would return to his homeland to teach martial arts. His first attempt at opening a school occurred in 1945, which he called Hwa Soo Do(Flowering Hand Way).

This first attempt would be unsuccessful, and Hwang would try again in the early 1950s. Changing the name of his school to Tang Soo Moo Duk Kwan, which was a name Koreans were more familiar with.

In 1957, Kee made changes to his teachings after reading Muye Dobo Tongji. A book from the 17th century that was commissioned by the king of Korea, which depicted various indigenous Korean martial arts.

He would also rename his style Soo Bahk Do, which would remain the name of his style for the next thirty years.

The Growth of Tang Soo Do

Over the next thirty years, Kee’s martial art had significant growth. It was one of the most practiced Korean martial arts during the 1960s. 

Master Kee would help co-found the Korean Soo Bahk Do Association. After being established, the Korean government registered Soo Bahk Do as an official traditional martial art.

Soo Bahk Do or Tang Soo Do, also called, would become an internationally practiced martial art. Hwang Kee would live to see his martial art be taught across the world.

What is the Meaning of Tang Soo Do? 

Each word of the martial art has a deeper meaning. Putting them all together forms the name of the martial art.

• Tang: Tang refers to the Tang Dynasty of China that existed from 618 to 907 AD. During this time, there was a large amount of cultural exchange between Korea and China. Using this name symbolizes the respect that China had for influencing this martial art.
• Soo: Soo translates to “hand” or “technique” in Korean.
• Do: Do translates to either the path or the way in Korean.

The Techniques of Tang Soo Do

Tang Soo Do consists of a wide variety of techniques. Here are some of the Jireugi(Striking) and defensive techniques that are taught within the martial art.

Punches(Joomuk Taerigi) 

• Jireugi(Jab)
• Twio Jireugi(Cross/Straigt)
• Gulgi Jireugi(Hook Punch)
• Chook Jireugi(Uppercut)
• Dung Joomuk Taergi(Back Fist Strike)

Kicks(Chagi) 

• Ap Chagi(Front Kick)
• Dollyo Chagi(Roundhouse Kick)
• Yop Chagi(Side Kick)
• Naeryeo Chagi(Ax Kick)
• Bituro Chagi(Spinning Kick)

Blocks(Makgi) 

• Bakot Palmok Makgi(Outer Forearm Block)
• An Palmok Makgi(Inner Forearm Block)
• Sonkal Makgi(Knifehand Block)
• Doo Sonkal Makgi(Double Knifehand Block)

Stances(Seogi) Forms(Poomsae/Hyung)

• Kima Seogi(Horse Stance)
• Ap Seogi(Front Stance)
• Dwitbol Seogi(Back Stance)

Hyung(Form)

Tang Soo Do have various forms, just like in Karate or Taekwondo. At each rank, there are different hyungs that TSD students perform. 

The Tang Soo Do Belt System

The most commonly used Tang Soo Do belt system consists of six belts.

• White Belt
• Orange Belt
• Green Belt
• Blue Belt
• Brown Belt
• Black Belt

Some TSD schools may use a slightly different belt system, but the majority use this belt system. It’s the official belt system of the world’s biggest Tang Soo Do federations.

On average, it takes around 3-years to complete the system and earn a TSD black belt. Three years if you’re dedicated and around five if you regularly train.

The Philosophy of Tang Soo Do

Hwang Kee would base much of the teachings of Tang Soo Do on the Chinese philosophy of Taoism. Focusing on living in harmony with the Tao.

Kee would also state that perfection in martial arts could never be reached. That is why he preferred to wear a midnight blue belt instead of a traditional black belt worn by masters.

In Korean culture, the color black signifies death, while midnight blue represents being limitless. Symbolizing that Tang Soo Do students had limitless possibilities to improve their abilities.

Famous Tang Soo Do Practitioners?

• Chuck Norris: The martial arts icon is a Tang Soo Do black belt and various other martial arts. Norris said that he learned the martial art while serving in the US Air Force.
• Michael Jai White: Action movie star and director Michael Jai White is an expert at numerous striking martial arts. Tang Soo Do happens to be one of them.
• Bill “Superfoot” Wallace: Bill “Superfoot” Wallace is a revered kickboxing champion and martial artist. He holds many black belts, including forms of Karate and Tang Soo Do.
• Don “The Dragon” Wilson: An 11x kickboxing world champion and actor, who holds a black belt in TSD and many other styles.

Should You Learn Tang Soo Do?

Tang Soo Do is an effective striking martial art that will improve your self-defense skills. If you ever train with a TSD practitioner, definitely try picking up some techniques from them. They’ll help give you a better overall striking game.

A wide variety of martial arts have different fighting stances within each one. Each of these fighting stances has distinct characteristics and qualities that set them apart from one another. 

Here is our breakdown of the most used fighting stances in the world. Detailing each of their characteristics and the purposes they serve.

Boxing Fighting Stances 

Boxing is one of the most widely practiced combat sports in the world. Literally, every culture practices a style of boxing, which means the movements and stances aren’t exact. Here are some of the various boxing fighting stances used in the sport described below.

Orthodox Fighting Stance

The most used boxing stance is the traditional orthodox stance. It’s predominantly used by right-handed fighters because their right hand is in the power punch position in the back.

Their left hand is in the lead, slightly in front of their face. The right is either pressed against the chin or against the head.

Then with the feet, they’re about shoulder-width apart, with their left leg in the lead and right in the back. Legs are slightly bent, and you have a basic orthodox boxing stance there.

Southpaw Fighting Stance

The reverse of the orthodox stance is the southpaw stance that’s used by left-handed fighters. In this stance, your right hand is in the front, and the left is in the back. In the southpaw stance, your right finds the range and is the first line of defense, while your left is the power hand.

Switch Stance

Some boxers can fight in both fighting stances. Going from one stance to another depending on the situation of their fight. Some of the best boxers that are switch-stance fighters include Terrence Crawford and the legend Marvin Hagler.

Crouched Stance

There are variations of a crouched stance in boxing where they bend their knees more to lower themselves. Doing this makes them a smaller target, enabling them to slip and duck incoming punches.

One of the most used crouched stances was the peek-a-boo style that Mike Tyson made famous. Tyson would stay low to evade punches and then come up with explosive combos to get the knockout.

Wide Stance

Taller boxers like to use wide stances when they fight. Their feet are around half a foot wider apart than in a traditional boxing stance.

Also, standing sideways takes away targets that their opponent could hit. Fighters that use a wide stance, like the Klitschko brothers, used them along with powerful jabs to win world titles.

Philly Shell Fighting Stance

The Philly shell is one of the most advanced fighting stances in the sport of boxing. In this stance, you’re standing more sideways with your lead hand across your body and backhand against your chin.

This stance seems like you’re exposed to strikes, but it’s actually designed to counter your opponent’s strikes. Slipping and delivering quick counters that keep your opponent off balance.

Karate Fighting Stance

If you’ve watched Karate masters like Lyoto Machida and Stephen Thompson fight, you’ve seen the Karate fighting stance. In this stance, fighters stance sideways with their feet double shoulder length apart and knees slightly bent.

Your lead hand is slightly extended to find and keep the range. The backhand is traditionally kept low below the chin or even against your body.

In this stance, Karate practitioners are focused on landing fast kicks and hard punches in combos of 1-3 moves.

Taekwondo Fighting Stances

In Taekwondo, there are actually three different fighting stances that practitioners use in sparring. The first is similar to a normal kickboxing stance, where both hands are up, and you’re standing sideways.

Staying super light on your feet and keeping a distance in order to land a mixture of jumping or spinning kicks.

The other two Taekwondo fighting stances look similar to the Philly shell stance in boxing. Your front hand is across your body to block strikes to the body. Some Taekwondo fighters will either keep their front shoulder low or raise it up to cover their chin.

Muay Thai Fighting Stance

The classic Muay Thai fighting stance is one of the most used and effective stances in combat sports. Thai boxers tend to stand more frontal with their lead hand slightly forward.

Their palms are generally pointed outwards towards their opponents to either block strikes or engage in a clinch. Then with their feet, they keep them half a shoulder length apart to throw explosive round kicks and knees.

Kickboxing Fighting Stances

There’s a wide variety of different kickboxing stances that are used within the sport. The variations depend on what striking disciplines the fighters practice, like Karate, Kung Fu, Muay Thai, or Taekwondo.

You’ll see various styles displayed at kickboxing events that make for exciting match-ups.

Wrestling Fighting Stances

In wrestling, two different types of fighting stances are generally used within the sport. An offensive stance and a defensive stance. 

Offensive wrestling stances are semi-sideways with one leg in front, and the knees bent. The arms are generally tight against the body, so their opponent can’t take under hooks to counter them.

Defensive wrestling stances are horizontal stances where the wrestler’s feet are shoulder-length apart. The purpose of this stance is to defend an opponent’s attacks and counter with an attack of your own.

Sambo Fighting Stance

A Sambo fighting stance is similar to the stances you’re accustomed to seeing in MMA. Sambo fighters stand in a sort of kickboxing stance in order to throw their punches and kicks. They’re also light on their feet to defend takedowns and throws from their opponent.

Judo Fighting Stance 

In a traditional Judo fighting stance, you have one foot in front, the other in the back, and your hands ups. Your hands are open and in front of your face in order to grab your opponent or defend them from grabbing you.

BJJ Fighting Stance

A BJJ fighting stance can look similar to a Judo or wrestling one. Depending on if they’re doing Gi or No-Gi.

Your hands are up in order to block your opponent from grabbing you and also to grab them. Once you can touch your opponent, you’ll either set up a takedown/throw or pull guard.

Aikido Fighting Stance 

In an Aikido stance, your knees are bent with one leg in front of the other. Your hands are pointed out like knives to find the range and counter your opponent’s attacks.

Hapkido Fighting Stances

A few different fighting stances are used in the Korean art of Hapkido. The traditional one is where a Hapkido practitioner’s fists are up, which is similar to a Taekwondo stance.

The second Hapkido stance will detail where your lead hand is in a fist in front of your body. Your backhand is open with its palm up.

Then the third type of Hapkido stance we’ll detail is where you have knife hands. Your hands are open and put in various positions, depending on your objective.

Kung Fu Fighting Stances

There are a wide variety of different Kung Fu fighting stances. We won’t detail the hundreds of different stances, but just a few to give you examples of what they’re like.

The Crane

The Kung Fu style, known as the crane stance, is a long-distance fighting style that mimics the movements of a crane. Practitioners lift their front leg up with all of their weight on their back leg and their hands to the side.

They aim to keep their distance and throw different types of kicks from long range.

Tiger Claw

The tiger claw style is one where practitioners mimic the movements of a tiger. They go into a deep crouch, where their back knee is bent, and their front leg is semi-straight.

Tiger claw practitioners, of course, keep their hands like a claw in front of their faces. Using various tiger-like techniques where they jump at their opponent to attack them.

Wing Chun

The defensive art of wing chun is one of the more unique Wushu grappling styles. In this fighting stance, a Wing Chun practitioner has more feet slightly in front of the other and their knees bent.

Their hands are open and in front of their face to deflect and counter their opponent’s attacks.

MMA Fighting Stances

Just like with boxing, there isn’t one type of MMA stance but numerous MMA fighting stances. That’s because MMA is a hybrid sport, so the stances will be a mix of whatever fighting disciplines the fighter practices.

You could see anything from a Karate stance mixed with a wrestler’s stance. Throwing Karate style strikes and then shifting into a wrestling stance when grappling ensues. 

These mixes of fighting stances and disciplines are what make MMA a special sport.

What is the Best Fighting Stance?

There isn’t one type of fighting stance that is better than the others. The best fighting stances are hybrids like you see in MMA. 

A fighter’s hands are up to defend against strikes but are also prepared to defend their opponent’s grappling. We recommend that you train in different disciplines to improve your overall self-defense.

One of the most asked questions from striking martial arts practitioners is about knuckle conditioning methods. They want to know how to strengthen their knuckles to punch harder without damaging their hands.

Here’s our guide on knuckle conditioning. Giving you different options for conditioning your knuckles and safety tips when performing the movements.

What is Knuckle Conditioning, and Why is it Done?

Knuckle conditioning is the act of strengthening your knuckles. The two reasons it’s done are to strengthen a fighter’s hands to prevent injury and punch harder.

When you perform conditioning movements, you lightly damage your knuckles to strengthen them. As you condition your knuckles, calcium gradually develops over your bones.

This calcium build-up strengthens your knuckles while making your punches harder. Many high-level fighters use various types of knuckle conditioning methods in order to punch harder with a lower risk of injury.

Safety Tips for Knuckle Conditioning

There are proper ways to condition your knuckles and incorrect ways that will seriously injure you. Remember these three important safety tips before doing any type of knuckle conditioning.

1. Your Form is Most Important
2. Focal Points
3. Conditioning is Gradual

Proper Form 

Punching form isn’t just important for your overall skill but equally important for knuckle conditioning. When your movement is correct, it will result in a powerful punch being landed.

Starting at your feet, moving up the body, and being released at the end of your knuckles. Not just hitting your target but aiming to go through it.

This also goes for your form on push-up variations. Remembering to also focus on form during knuckle conditioning will help in the process.

Focal Points 

Always aim to hit with your index and middle knuckles when throwing punches. They are the biggest knuckles on your hand and are designed to absorb more of an impact.

But don’t worry about the other two weaker knuckles. They will also gradually get conditioned as they still absorb the impact of punches.

Conditioning is Gradual

Probably the most important safety tip for knuckle conditioning is to remember that it’s a gradual process. Meaning you’re not bashing your hands into objects at full force to condition your knuckles.

The process of conditioning your knuckles is gradual that’s done with a high volume of solid punches

Knuckle Conditioning Methods

There are numerous types of knuckle conditioning methods that fighters due to strengthen their hands. Here are the four most proven effective methods for strengthening your hands.

Boxing Training 

If you want to strengthen your knuckles in order to punch harder, boxing training should be your focus. Every other type of knuckle conditioning is secondary to boxing.

When you throw a high volume of punches, the impact gradually hardens your knuckles. Hitting everything from a bag, mitts or sparring with a teammate.

As you’re technique and timing improve, so does the durability of your hand. The impact of the punches is absorbed by your knuckles, which hardens them as they get used to punching.

If you’re consistent with your boxing training, your knuckles will get tougher and stronger. Be dedicated and do rounds of bag work, mitts, and sparring weekly to improve your hand strength.

Then if you’re careful, you can start doing bag work without gloves. As you punch bare knuckle, your hands and wrist absorb the impact of the punches.

Push-up Variations 

Beyond boxing training, push-ups are probably the best exercise to strengthen your knuckles and entire hands/wrists. The great thing about push-ups is various types of push-ups will strengthen both your hands and overall strength.

On the lower difficulty scale, you have basic push-ups and planks that can be performed either with/without knees on the ground. They strengthen the ligaments of your hands and wrists, allowing you to punch harder.

Then on the more difficult side are knuckle push-ups, which are the best push-ups for knuckle conditioning. Start doing knuckle push-ups on a soft mat and gradually start doing them on a smooth and hard surface (Cement, Wood, etc.).

When you perform knuckle push-ups, put most of your weight on your index and middle knuckle. Those are the principal knuckles that are supposed to make contact when you’re hitting an object.

When you perform knuckle push-ups, be sure to start at a low rep number and gradually add more. After weeks of doing various forms of push-ups, you’ll notice a difference in the force of your punches.

Makiwara 

A makiwara is a piece of equipment that is used in Karate to strengthen the knuckles of the practitioner. It’s basically just a hard piece of wood with a slim pad over the center.

Karate practitioners throw solid single punches at a time on a makiwara. Never throwing their punches with 100% force, but they are solid enough to make a good impact.

You can purchase a makiwara on Amazon or make your own at home. But make sure the object you’re using has a smooth surface and see that the padding is fully secured.

Rice/Sand Bucket 

Rice or sand buckets are an underused but effective way to condition your entire hand. This method is not only used by fighters to strengthen their hands but also by American football players.  Specifically the ball carriers like the quarterback.

These bucket exercises are low-impact movements that strengthen the tendons of your hands. Equally important as the knuckles if your goal is to harden your punches.

Fighters do various basic hand movements with little resistance from the weight of the rice/sand. This strengthening method will increase your hand’s flexibility and dexterity. 

Putting those together with hardened knuckles will enable you to throw harder punches.

Knuckle Conditioning Methods That We Won’t Encourage

Some other knuckle conditioning methods are, let’s say, a bit extreme. The craziest we’ve heard about is soaking your hands in different substances.

Everything from vinegar, gasoline/petrol, and even a fighter’s own urine. Tyson Fury has claimed that he’s dipped his hands in petrol five minutes a day in order to harden his hands.

We don’t encourage these types of methods, which could pose health risks. You’re on your own if your crazy enough to try them.

What is the Best Knuckle Conditioning Method?

As we said in the knuckle conditioning methods section, boxing training is the best way to condition your knuckle. When you want to condition your knuckles for punching, you should obviously consistently train.

As you consistently train, your knuckles will get stronger from the volume of punches. You will feel and see the difference after prolonged proper boxing training.

Many bodybuilding experts are choosing pro bodybuilder Samson Dauda as the sport’s next star. Possessing the size and symmetry that hasn’t been seen in bodybuilding for some time.

Name:	Samson Dauda
Nickname:	The Nigerian Lion
Country:	Nigeria
Weight:	275-330lbs
Height:	5’11”
Sport(s):	Bodybuilding
Years Active:	2015 to present

Here’s what you need to know about pro-Nigerian bodybuilder Samson Dauda. Going over how he discovered bodybuilding and the work he’s put into becoming a champion.

Samson Dauda’s Early Life

Samson Dauda is a Nigerian native who grew up in the UK. His parents immigrated when he was young.

As Dauda got older, he was a gifted athlete that excelled in every sport he tried. He would become passionate about rugby and one of the city’s best players.

Samson Dauda’s Entry Into Bodybuilding

While playing rugby, Samson had many teammates and opposing players complimenting his physique. They noticed that he had a naturally muscular figure and encouraged him to try bodybuilding.

Samson Dauda, at that time, had never heard of bodybuilding until this point and knew nothing about the sport. This would lead Dauda to a local gym and ask the owner Chris Jones about bodybuilding.

After Jones explained the ins and outs of bodybuilding, Dauda initially opted out of pursuing the sport. He wouldn’t gain an interest in bodybuilding until 2013.

Dauda watched Phil Heath win the 2013 Mr. Olympia and was inspired to start his journey into bodybuilding.

Samson Dauda’s Bodybuilding Career

Samson Dauda’s bodybuilding career started in 2014 and steadily climbed to the top. Here are some of the highlights of Samson’s bodybuilding career(so far).

Amateur Bodybuilding Career 

Samson entered his first bodybuilding competition as an amateur in 2014. When he checked in, the event organizer saw Samson and said he would likely win the competition.

The organizer turned out to be correct, as the judges awarded Samson Dauda with his first competition win. Dauda would then spend the next three years as an amateur bodybuilder.

He would place 8th at the 2015 UK Amateur Olympia. This disappointing showing would motivate Samson to work on his body for the next two years.

Dauda returned in 2017 and placed 5th in the amateur division at the Arnold Classic Europe. This was a decent showing for Samson, and he would continue improving his body throughout the year.

Place 2nd at the British Championships and followed this up with two 1st place finishes at the Diamond Cup Rome. Placing first in his division and in the overall division.

Samson Turns Pro 

After getting two 1st place finish at the Diamond Cup Rome, Samson would receive his IFBB pro card. Advancing him to the next stage of his bodybuilding career.

The Learning Process 

Samson’s first pro bodybuilding competition took place at EVLS Prague Showdown in Prague. Placing fifth in the open division.

Dauba realized that to become a top pro bodybuilder, he would have to undergo another learning process. He had a great physique but a long way to go before becoming a champion.

From 2018 to early 2021, Samson competed in numerous competitions around the world. In many of these competitions, Dauda would have a disappointing outcome.

Generally placing 5th or below at most shows with a few second-place finishes sprinkled in. After this tough learning period, Dauda’s work and determination would begin to pay off.

Samson’s First Pro Win

Samson’s hard work would pay off in late 2021. Samson Dauda would finally break through his ceiling and win his first pro show.

Ironically, Dauda’s first win would come at EVLS Prague, where he made his pro debut three years prior. This win would mark the turning point in Dauda’s career.

Samson’s First Olympia

In 2022, Samson Dauda finally got the confidence to enter the Mr. Olympia—the biggest competition in the sport of bodybuilding. 

In the previous two years, Dauda was nervous and didn’t think he was ready. When the 2022 Mr. Olympia approached, the Nigerian Lion would first attempt to win the title.

At Dauda’s first Mr. Olympia, Samson would place a respectable 6th in his Olympia debut. Even though he placed sixth, Samson got many pros and top bodybuilding experts talking.

Many of them believed that Samson could compete with Mr. Olympia in the coming years with enough work.

Samson Wins the 2023 Arnold Classic

The Nigerian Lion would continue grinding and make his debut at the 2023 Arnold Classic. Under Mr. Olympia, the second most prestigious bodybuilding title in the world.

Samson Dauda would have the best training camp of his life in preparation for his first Arnold Classic. Coming into the competition with the best physique that he’s ever sculpted.

Fans and judges were both blown away by Dauda’s transformation. The Nigerian Lion received a standing ovation when Samson was announced the winner.

Bodybuilding fans loved seeing a bodybuilder they rooted for finally make it to the top of the sport. Many now believe Samson Dauda is a favorite to win the 2023 Mr. Olympia.

Samson Dauda’s Training

Samson Dauda has an intense and methodical training regiment that’s helped build up his body. Each day, Dauda breaks his training into specific muscle groups and targets them with 3-5 exercises. All are done in high volume and consist of at least 5 sets.

Leg Workout

• Leg Extension: 5 Sets 15-20 Reps
• Seated Leg Curl: 5 Sets 15-20 Reps
• Leg Press: 5 Sets 15-20 Reps
• Smith Machine Squats: 5 Sets 15-20 Reps

Back Workout

• Wide Grip Pulldown: 3-4 Sets 8-10 Reps(Includes drop set and 2-second holds on each rep.)
• Cable Row: 3-4 Sets 8-10 Reps(2-seconds holds on each rep followed by 2 sets until failure.)
• Rack Pulls: 3-4 Sets 8-10 Reps(Control weight on the way down during each rep.)
• Narrow Grip Pulldown: 10 Reps & Super Set
• Rope Pullovers: 10 Reps & Super Set

Arm Workout 

Dauda has naturally large arms and focuses on every arm muscle using high-volume sets with slow and controlled reps. Below is seven exercises that Samson commonly does for his arm workouts.

• Machine Preacher Curls
• Unilateral Machine Preacher Curls
• Rope Tricep Pulldowns
• Crossbody Dumbbell Hammer Curls
• Kneeling Close Grip Press on Seated Leg Curls Machine
• Unilateral Cable Triceps Extension with D-handles
• Barbell Shrugs

Shoulder Workout

Samson performs a series of shoulder exercises targeting the anterior, lateral, and posterior deltoid muscles. He focuses more on getting stimulus to these muscles in order to have more symmetry and shoulder flexibility.

• Smith Machine Seated Overhead Press
• Plate Lateral Raises
• Bent Over Seated Dumbell Lateral Raises
• Barbell Upright Rows
• Reverse Peck Deck Flyes
• Unilateral Reverse Grip Cable Front Raise

Chest Workout

High volume w/ multiple sets that Dauda generally does with three specific chest exercises.

• Smith Machine Incline Bench Press
• Machine Chest Press
• Peck Deck Flyes

Samson Dauda’s Diet

The Nigerian lion follows a strict diet to achieve the body he now possesses. Here are some examples of Samson Dauda’s meal plans for the off-season and during his competition season.

Dauda credits his wife Marlenka for making his meals and keeping him on his diet.

Off-season Diet

Dauda’s off-season diet consists of six different meals per day. Here’s an example of what a day of eating looks like for Samson.

Meal 1

• 130 Grams of Rolled Oats
• 1 Scoop Hosstile ISO Grassfed Protein isolate
• 5 Eggs
• 1.5 Scoops of Hosstile Essential Amino Acids

Meal 2

• 400 Grams of Sweet Potato
• 200 Grams of Steak
• Fruit Smoothie

Meal 3(Pre-workout Meal)

• 200 Grams of Pasta
• 200 Grams of Ground Beef

Mid Workout Shake

• 2 Scoops Hosstile ISO Grassfed Protein Isolate

Post Workout Shake

• 2 Scoops Hosstile ISO Grassfed Protein Isolate
• Banana

Meal 4

• 2 Cups of White Rice
• 250 Grams of Chicken Breast
• 2 Scoops Hosstile ISO Grassfed Protein Isolate

Meal 5

• 200 Grams of Ground Beef
• 2 Cups of White Rice
• Tomato Sauce
• 2  Scoops Hosstile ISO Grassfed Protein Isolate

Meal 6

• 200 Grams of Steak
• 2 Cups of White Rice
• Cup of Yogurt

In-season Diet

Meal 1

• 90 Grams of Oatmeal
• 2 Scoops of Grassfed Whey Protein Isolate
• 5 Eggs

Meal 2

• 250 Grams of Sweet Potato
• 250 Grams of Steak
• Supplements Before First Workout

Meal 3

• 1.5 Cups of Rice
• 250 Grams of Chicken Breast

Pre-workout Supplement Stack

• 1 Soop of BLOODSHOT Pump Pre-Workout Powder
• 1 Scoop of INTRA[R3] Intra-Workout Powder
• 1 Scoop of Beta-Alanine Powder
• 1 Scoop of Creatine Monohydrate Powder 
• 1 Scoop of Glutamine Powder 
• 1 Scoop Citrulline Powder

Post-workout Supplements

• 1 Scoop ISO Grassfed Whey Isolate
• 1 Scoop CDX Cluster Dextrin Carb Powder

Meal 4

• 1.5 Cups of Rice
• 250 Grams of Chicken Breast

Meal 5

• 1.5 Cups of Rice
• 250 Grams of Ground Beef

Meal 6

• 200 Grams of Salmon

How Tall is Samson Dauda?

Samson’s height is listed at 5 ft 11 in(180.34 cm).

How Old is Samson Dauda?

Samson’s official age is 31 years old.

What’s Next for Samson Dauda?

After winning the Arnold Classic and placing 6th in his first Olympia, many believe Samson Dauda is bodybuilding’s next star. He has great aesthetics, symmetry, and personality to be a future Mr. Olympia.

Don’t be surprised to hear more about the Nigerian Lion in the future. Dauda is on his way to becoming an international star

Larry Wheels is one of the most-watched fitness Youtubers on the planet, but he isn’t just a Youtuber. He’s a multi-strength sport athlete who has succeeded in nearly every sport he’s entered.

Name:	Larry Williams
Date of Birth:	December 3rd, 1994
Place of Birth:	Bronx, New York, United States
Nickname:	Larry Wheels
Country:	New York, United States
Weight:	245 – 308lbs (111.1 – 139.7kg)
Height:	6’1? (185.5cm)
Sports:	Powerlifting, Strongman, Bodybuilding, Arm Wrestling

Here’s the backstory of strength sport athlete and Youtube personality Larry Wheels. Detailing how his hard upbringing inspired him to become a pro athlete and a famous wellness advocate.

Larry Wheels Tough Upbringing

If you’ve heard the story of Larry Wheels, you know that he went on a tough journey to become successful. When Larry was born, his father abandoned his family and left him and his mother with nothing.

His mother would then jump from abusive boyfriend to another throughout his childhood. The worst of which happened when he was 8 years old.

Wheels’ mother would get into a fistfight with her then-boyfriend, and he called the police. When the police arrived, they saw young Larry in the middle of the chaos.

They would take him to the police station and force his mother to take a drug test. Her test would test positive for various drugs, prompting a judge to remove her custody of Larry Wheels.

This would lead Larry to spend the next five years in foster care. Living away from his mother, who would spend years trying to regain custody.

Larry Discovers Weightlifting

When Larry Wheels was a teen, his mother regained custody and moved him to the island of St. Martin—his mother’s birth country.

Wheels couldn’t go to school on the island from the ages of fourteen to fifteen. There was only one English school on the island, which was too expensive.

He would get bullied by local boys on the island and spend much time alone and bored. This problem would lead Larry to pick up weightlifting.

Larry figured he could cure his boredom and be able to defend himself against bullies. During all of his free time over the next two years, he would be lifting weights.

Getting bigger and stronger during this time. Evolving from a young teen to a young man.

Return to the US

After a three-year stint in St. Martin, Wheels would return to the US and be eager to join a gym. At sixteen, Larry came to a realization about his life.

He felt the only thing he was good at was getting bigger and stronger. This realization would lead Larry to dedicate himself to becoming a strength athlete.

The Powerlifter 

The first sport that Larry gained interest in was the sport of powerlifting. From sixteen to eighteen, Larry would get formal coaching and begin learning proper form.

Also, gaining weight and upping his personal lifting records almost every time he stepped into the gym. When he felt ready, Larry entered his first powerlifting meet when he was eighteen.

He entered the 275 lb class but only weighed in at 245 lbs. The weight difference wasn’t a factor, as Wheels won his debut powerlifting meet with a total of 1810 lbs (821 kg).

Larry Goes Pro

After winning his debut powerlifting meet as an amateur, Larry would make the jump to become a professional powerlifter. Making his pro debut at the RPS New Jersey State Championship.

He would win his pro debut with a total of 1900 lbs (861.8 kg) lifted. Beating his personal best by nearly 100 lbs. Over the next seven years, Wheels would win numerous powerlifting meets. 

Beating his personal records every time he got under the bar. His biggest win was his last, which came at the 2020 Arnold Classic. Larry won with a record total of 2370 lbs (1075 kg) lifted in total.

Larry’s Weightlifting Records & Personal Bests

Raw Totals (Without Supportive Gear/Clothing)

• Squat: 870 lbs (394.6 kg)
• Deadlift: 870 lbs (394.6 kg)
• Bench: 645 lbs (292.5 kg)
• Total:  2370 lbs (1075 kg)

Totals w/ Wraps

• Squat: 725 lbs (328.8 kg)
• Deadlift: 725 lbs (328.8 kg)
• Bench: 500 lbs (226.7 kg)
• Total: 1900 lbs (861.8 kg)

Larry Wheels: The Bodybuilder 

Five years after becoming a professional powerlifter, Larry would take his next venture into strength sports. Transitioning into the sport of bodybuilding.

His debut amateur show was the 2018 NPC Gold Coast Classic. He would win an amateur debut in the best overall category.

Larry would go on to compete sporadically in bodybuilding as well as promote his bodybuilding training regiment.

Larry Wheels: Strongman Athlete 

Since Larry was already a powerlifter, transitioning to strongman competitions was easy. He was already training with many top strongman athletes, as he showed on Youtube, so Larry knew he could hang.

One of his biggest strongman competitions was the 2019 World’s Log Championship. Competing alongside strongman champions Brian Shaw, Eddie Hall, and Thor Bjornsson.

Completing a successful log lift that weighed 386 lbs(175 kg)

Arm Wrestler

Larry’s latest venture as a strength athlete has taken him to the sport of arm wrestling. On his Youtube channel, Wheels has trained with the best arm wrestlers in the world.

Everyone from Devon Larratt, John Brzenk, and Levan Saginashvili. These training sessions would encourage Larry to take up arm wrestling.

Just this year, Larry Wheels would win his first arm wrestling competition. You can watch highlights from the event in the video below.

Youtube Personality

Where Larry Wheels gained the majority of his fanbase from being a Youtube personality. Larry has documented his evolution as an athlete since he was eighteen years old.

Sharing with his fans everything from competition footage, training, and his everyday life. This documentation has created a large fanbase and a small community.

These watched Larry and grew along with him. Cheering him on while also taking his advice to better themselves.

Wheels have also branched out as a Youtube personality thanks to this success. Along with documenting his training, Larry also interviews top strength athletes and health enthusiasts.

As of now, Larry has nearly 3 million subscribers on Youtube and millions of followers on other platforms. 

Larry Wheels’ Training 

Larry is a very diverse strength athlete. He is well-versed in every type of strength training style, from powerlifting, bodybuilding, strongman, and arm wrestling.

If you watch Larry’s videos, you know that he trains heavily and highly. He also shows good form that he’s developed from years of training with the best coaches and strength athletes.

From his weekly training videos, you can see that Larry can hang with any type of strength athlete during training.

How Old is Larry Wheels? 

Larry Wheels was born on December 3rd, 1994, in the Bronx, New York. He is currently twenty-eight years old.

How Tall is Larry Wheels? 

Larry’s official height is listed at 6 ft 1 in(185 cm)

How Much Does Larry Wheels Weigh? 

Larry Wheels stated that his current weight fluctuates between 260 and 275 lbs(118 to 225 kg). 15 lbs(6.8 kg) heavier than when he debuted as a strength athlete at eighteen.

Where Does Larry Wheels Live?

Larry Wheels currently resides in the city of Dubai, located in the Arab Emirates nation—a popular residence for fitness influencers.

Larry’s Personal Life

Along with being a successful multi-sport athlete and influencer, Wheels is also a successful businessman. He sells everything from training regiments for multiple strength sports to supplements and lifting equipment.

His success has allowed him to settle in the city of Dubai, located in the United Arab Emirates.

What’s Next For Larry Wheels?

Larry Wheels is not even thirty, but he’s done it all as a strength sport athlete. Excelling at some and competing at a high level in others.

But Larry’s work as a Youtube personality will always be what he’s most known for. Through the platform Wheels created, he has gained millions of followers and has been able to promote health and fitness. An invaluable gift that will be beneficial for years to come.

Bill Kazmaier is a strength sports icon. Not only was he a world-class powerlifter, but he helped establish the sport of strong man.

Name:	Bill Kazmaier
Date of Birth:	December 30th, 1953
Place of Birth:	Burlington, Wisconsin, U.S.
Hometown:	Burlington, Wisconsin
Nickname:	Kaz
Trainers:	Brad Rheingans, Verne Gagne
Height:	6 ft 3 in(191 cm)
Weight:	326 lbs(148 kg)
Career:	1978 to 1990
Championships:	3x World’s Strongest Man, 6x Scottish Power Champion, 2x IPF World Powerlifting Champion, 2x National Powerlifting Champion

Here is a breakdown of strength sports legend Bill Kazmaier. Going over his journey from becoming a champion in powerlifting and strongman, as well as his other athletic endeavors. 

Bill Kazmaier’s Early Life 

Bill Kazmaier is a Wisconsin native that spent his childhood in Burlington, Wisconsin. His father owned a bottling plant in the city and another in the neighboring city of Kenosha.

As a kid, Bill was a gifted athlete and was blessed with great genetics. These two traits together made him a star athlete in high school. 

His athletic ability would lead him to earn a scholarship at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He played for two years on the team before deciding to pursue a career as a professional weightlifter.

Bill Kazmaier’s Struggle to Become a Strength Athlete 

Bill would become passionate about lifting weights while training at the YMCA gym in Madison, Wisconsin. He would spend his time at this YMCA perfecting his technique and mastering the core lifts.

Unfortunately for Kaz, he didn’t realize how little money was in strength sports. This would lead to a period of struggle for Bill for the next few years.

To help pursue his career in weightlifting, Kazmaier would take various jobs, from bouncer, lumberjack, and oil rigger.

Bill Kazmaier Becomes a Powerlifting Champion 

During the late 1970s, Bill Kazmaier would begin coming into his own in the sport of powerlifting. His first taste of success would come at the 1978 American Athletic Union(AAU) Championship.

Kazmaier would win the event with a 782 lb(354 kg) squat, 534 lb(242 kg) bench press, and 804 lb(364 kg) deadlift. Earning a total of 2120 lbs(961 kg).

This win would lead Bill to turn pro the next year and enter the 1979 IPF World Powerlifting Championship. At just 25 years old, Bill would become a world champion in powerlifting for the first time.

Setting a world record in bench press with a total of 622 lbs(282 kg) lifted.

Bill Kazmaier’s World Strongest Man Champion

Kazmaier helped establish World Strongest Man as the top event in the world of strength sports. Here are some of the highlights of his epic run at the top of the sport during the 1980s.

The First World’s Strongest Man Event(1979)

After winning his first championship in powerlifting at the professional level, Bill would receive a life-changing invitation. He would get an invitation to the inaugural World’s Strongest Man event in 1979.

Competing against the strongest men in the world in an event that was the first of its kind. One of the athletes Bill would go up against was arm wrestling legend Cleve Dean.

Kazmaier would place third overall behind Don Reinhoudt and Lars Hedlund in the inaugural strongman event.

1980 World’s Strongest Man 

In his second appearance at World’s Strongest Man, Bill would establish himself as the world’s strongest man. Putting on an epic performance that would mark the start of a three-year reign of dominance.

He would win the 1980 World’s Strongest Man with a commanding 28-point lead. Winning five of the ten events and tying for first in another event.

1981 World’s Strongest Man 

In 1981, Kaz would return to World’s Strongest Man to retain his crown as the champion. He would successfully repeat as champion with another epic performance.

Bill would win five of the eleven events at the competition. The most impressive feat of strength was breaking the squat record on a smith machine with a total of 969 lbs(440 kg).

It was more impressive that Bill broke the record while suffering from a torn pectoral muscle. He tore his pec during the rolled steel bar bending event.

1982 World’s Strongest Man 

Bill Kazmaier’s third straight and final World’s Strongest Man title would be earned in 1982. He would win the first three events to gain a huge lead over is opponents.

The most notable feat of strength at this World’s Strongest Man was Bill lifting 1055 lbs in the silver dollar deadlift.

World’s Strongest Man Drama & Return

Due to politics from WSM organizers, Bill was not invited to the 1983 event. Losing out on a fourth consecutive title, Kazmaier cited that he was too dominant and organizer wanted another winner.

This would lead to Bill’s six-year absence from WSM events. He wouldn’t make his return until 1988 when he would place second behind Jon Pall Sigmarson.

Bill would place fourth at the 1989 event and retire from strongman events in 1990.

Bill Kazmaier’s Return to Powerlifting

Since Bill wasn’t invited to any World’s Strongest Man events in 1983, so he would return to powerlifting. That year, Kaz would make his return to the IPF World Powerlifting Championship four years after winning the 1979 championship.

Bill would make a triumphant return to powerlifting at the IPF Championship. Winning the heavyweight division with a total of 2150 lbs(975 kg) lifted.

Kaz would also compete for the first time for the USPF in their national event in 1983.

Bill Kazmaier’s Reign as Scottish Power Challenge Champion

Along with re-establishing himself as one of the world’s premiere powerlifters, Kaz would dominate another strongman event called Scottish Power Challenge. Making his debut at the event in 1984 and dominating the event for the next six years.

During this reign as king of the Scottish Power Challenge, Kaz would break numerous highland game records. One of the most notable was the weight-over-bar event, where Bill threw a 56 lb anvil 18 ft 3 in. A record that stood for years.

On top of winning the Scottish Power Challenge six times, Kaz would also win the illustrious  Le Defi Mark Ten Challenge. Bill won France’s most prestigious strongman event in 1987 and earned second in 1990.

Bill Kazmaier’s NFL Attempt

After winning his first World’s Strongest Man championship in 1980, Bill was inspired to become a multi-sport athlete. He was inspired by legendary athlete Jim Thorpe, who was an Olympian and American football star.

Bill would attempt to follow Thorpe’s footsteps and try out for the Green Bay Packers in 1981. Although Kazmaier was strong, he hadn’t played football in seven years. He would be cut from the team during training camp.

Bill Kazmaier’s Professional Wrestling Career

While Bill Kazmaier was winning championships in powerlifting and strongman, he would venture into pro wrestling. During the early 1980s, Kaz would break into the business and begin his training under Vern Gagne and Brad Rheingans.

One of his first matches was a tryout match in the WWF (Now WWE) in 1986. He would also wrestle in various territories during this time, such as Stampede Wrestling and Continental Championship Wrestling.

But Kaz’s most successful run in pro wrestling was within World Championship Wrestling (WCW) in 1991. During this time, Bill would wrestle Lex Luger, team with Rick Steiner, and bounce around the mid to lower card.

While part of WCW, Bill would also briefly work with the Japanese promotion New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW).

Bill Kazmaier’s Training 

In his prime, you could sum up Bill Kazmaier’s training regiment in one word. Intense. Everything that Bill did was done with a maximum amount of intensity.

He would train just like how he would compete—pushing heavy weights fast and doing as much as possible. 

This mentality of being the best is what helped Kaz become a strong sport icon and world record holder.

Bill Kazmaier’s Personal Life 

Outside of strength sports and pro wrestling, Kazmaier has been successful in numerous other ventures. While making a good living as a strength athlete, Bill would open gyms and sell everything from training equipment to supplements.

His first gym Kaz Fitness Center in Alabama, during the early 1980s, would operate until 2005. Kaz would then open another gym called S.W.A.T. Gym shortly after, which is still in operation.

But many know Bill Kazmaier from his work as a World’s Strongest Man commentator. Since retiring from strongman, Bill has worked as part of the ESPN commentary team.

After 30 years of commentating, Kazmaier is still as passionate as ever for the sport that he helped build.

The Injuries 

Bill Kazmaier’s illustrious career in strength sports has not come without consequences. The legend has sustained numerous injuries in his career. 

He has quite possibly torn every muscle in his body more than once. These injuries do not include the bones he broke from years of lifting heavy weights.

If you see Kaz these days, you’ll see that he has a bit of a hard time getting around. Being proof that if you’re going to be a strongman competitor, you will pay the price in your later years.

Bill Kazmaier’s Records

Bill Kazmaier was one of the most successful athletes in the history of strength sports. He owns numerous records in both powerlifting and strongman. Here is a list of some of Kaz’s accomplishments.

Powerlifting Records 

• Squat: 930 lbs(420 kg) Squat Suit
• Bench: 660 lbs(300 kg) Former IPF World Record 
• Deadlift: 886 lbs(420 kg) Raw & 900 lbs(410 kg) w/ Wrist Wraps(Former IPF World Records)
• Total: 2425 lbs(1100 kg): Former World & IPF Record

World’s Strongest Man Records

• Deadlift:  415 kg (915 lb) Raw, without wrist straps, at the 1981 Highland Games. This lift was officially 404 kg (891 lb) but later weighed out to be 415 kg (915 lb).
• Car Lift (Deadlift): 1,159 kg (2,555 lb) – Winning Lift 1979
• Cement Block Lift: 440 kg (970 lb) Winning Lift, WSM 1981
• Silver Dollar Deadlift – 478.5 kg (1,055 lb) winning lift WSM 1982 (18″ off the floor with wrist straps)
• Overhead Log Lift – 170 kg (370 lb) winning lift WSM 1988 (awkward wooden log with great circumference) It has been noted that in 1988 logs used for the Log Lift were not machined as they are in modern competitions and were extremely unbalanced in weight. Bill pressed the log with ease, using absolutely no leg drive.
• Hungarian Farm Cart Deadlift – 510 kg (1,120 lb) winning lift WSM 1988

The Legacy of Bill Kazmaier

Every strength athlete owes a debt of gratitude to the legend Bill Kazmaier. During the late 1970s and 1980s, Kaz was the first big star that took strongman and powerlifting to new heights.

The numerous championships and records are great accomplishments, but Bill Kazmaier’s work as an ambassador for strength sports was invaluable. He is a legend and loved by both fans and competitors of strength sports.