This episode of RAW revisits formative years in American powerlifting and coaching, including sessions at Mark Chaillet’s “House of Pain,” experiences at Black’s Gym, and writing for Powerlifting USA and Muscle & Fitness. Marty reflects on handling lifters like Don Mills and Kirk Karwoski and the early spread of kettlebell training—translating these moments into practical insights for building stronger squat/bench/deadlift training environments today. We connect history to takeaways on attempt selection, equipment choices, and smart cardio that supports recovery without blunting strength. Listen to the full episode and explore additional resources here: https://www.ironcompany.com/podcast?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=summary&utm_campaign=raw_ep69
ABOUT THIS EPISODE — A history-rich conversation on coaching at “House of Pain,” meet-day decision making, and how kettlebell methods complemented barbell training as the scene evolved.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
Practical lessons from coaching lifters through warm-ups, openers, and third attempts.
How early kettlebell work improved hinge mechanics, bracing, and conditioning.
Building a stable training setup with racks, platforms, and reliable plates.
Where low-impact cardio belongs for recovery and work capacity.
KEY TOPICS
Coaching judgment on meet day: bar speed, RPE, and adjusting attempts.
Gym infrastructure: platforms, power racks, plate selection, and storage.
Program balance: barbell priority with short, crisp kettlebell sessions.
QUICK ANSWERS
Q: How did kettlebells fit alongside heavy barbell work?
A: Short swing and get-up sessions emphasized hinge power and trunk control on non-max days, adding conditioning without draining top-end strength.
Q: What matters most for a reliable meet prep environment?
A: A rigid platform, sturdy rack with safeties, and consistent plates so technique and balance feel the same every session.
Q: How should cardio be used by strength-focused lifters?
A: Keep it easy to moderate (bike, row, walk) to aid recovery and blood flow while preserving bar speed for heavy days.
SHOP THE EPISODE
Urethane Competition Kettlebells — American Barbell
https://www.ironcompany.com/urethane-competition-kettlebells-american-barbell-kbucabkg?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep69
Proformance Plus Dual Half Rack — commercial stability and safeties
https://www.ironcompany.com/proformance-plus-pxls-7920-dual-half-rack?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep69
Weightlifting Platforms — subcategory
https://www.ironcompany.com/strength-training-equipment/weightlifting-platforms?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep69
American Barbell Urethane Olympic Grip Plates
https://www.ironcompany.com/american-barbell-urethane-olympic-grip-plates?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep69
Commercial Upright Exercise Bike — Core Health & Fitness
https://www.ironcompany.com/8ub-commercial-upright-exercise-bike-corehf-9-8140-8ub?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep69
FULL EPISODE LIST & RESOURCES
https://www.ironcompany.com/podcast?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep69