The Methods to Getting “Dad Strength”
It’s the fabled notion that we can all remember when we were children. When our dad had that vice-like grip, this so-called “Dad strength” is something that we may all want to have as a way to set a great example for our kids. Dad strength is something that we can all aspire to, but what are the best ways to get it?
Get the Diet and Supplementation in Place
Before we start talking about strength and exercises, the fact is that if we really want to get stronger we need to ensure we have the nutrition in place. There are a variety of supplements that can cause increased muscular development and strength alongside it, but we’ve got to remember that we have to ensure that we are putting the right stuff in our bodies.
If you are eating a lot of sugar as a means to stay awake, you have got to make a swap to something that is going to have a far better impact on your body. If you need to get a sweet treat, choose something that’s slightly sweet but more satisfying. Dark chocolate is a commonly used example because it is richer, but still has those nutritional benefits.
Greasing the Groove
The term “greasing the groove” is commonly attributed to Pavel Tsatsouline, a fitness instructor who has trained the army, special forces, marines, and NAVY Seals. Greasing the groove, in a physiological sense, is about doing a particular exercise movement little and often. In doing so, you are slowly increasing the neural pathways that are going between muscle and brain to ensure the central nervous system is getting the message that it needs to be stronger in order to perform that movement.
The solution to doing this is probably right there in your arms now. Picking up and putting down your child lots is one of the best ways to grease the groove. And in fact, as your children get older and bigger, you’re going to be picking up heavier loads which ties into the notion of progressive overload. If you are lifting your child a lot, you are naturally greasing the groove.
Reinforcing Your Strength in Simple Ways
Strength is not associated with muscle. You don’t have to look sculpted in order to have strength, and this is where something like isometrics becomes an invaluable tool. Commonly used by Russian weightlifters and was a very popular practice 100 years ago by all-time strong men, having isometrics in your life can strengthen the tendons in the body, which means that you will have a far better connection between the body and the muscle.
Additionally, remember that dad strength takes time. You can try and rush the process along, but this is why rest is so important. There are different things that will impact your ability to rest such as your diet, your ability to deal with stress, and just how much sleep you’re actually getting. Dad strength is a real thing, and you can get it, but just be patient.
