AboutJoe Gunn Expertise Anything related to strength training, long distance running, speed development for all sports, and weight loss issues.
Experience Over 30 years as a personal trainer of athletes as well as average individuals.
Organizations Certified strength and Conditioning Specialist with the the National Strength and Conditiong Association. Certified Club coach with the United States Weightlifting Association. Certifed Level II long distance coach with the USA Track & Field.
Education/Credentials M.S with majors in exercise science and psychology
Expert: Joe Gunn Date: 5/30/2007 Subject: Wrestling worries
Question Hi, I'm on the wrestling team and I've got a serious problem.
I'm 210 pounds and in the 215 weight class, but I'm always stuck going toe to toe with musclebound gorillas that I simply can't tangle with.
How can I maintain my current weight, yet turn more of it into quality muscle that will improve my strength?
I've tried heavy weight lifting before but now my left knee and right shoulder pop and grind (albeit painlessly, should I be worried about this?).
If you could help me find some sort of injury-free program that can transform fat weight to muscle weight, I'd greatly appreciate it.
I've got about 3 months off, so I can really stick with it.
Thanks a lot for your time,
Kyle
Answer Hey Kyle, Have an orthodedic doc check you out before you do any additional weight training. Wrestling is about strength and endurance and you must train both to get better. You can't change fat to muscle...you can gain muscle with appropriate training and lose body fat with proper nutrition and training. I recommend a 3 day a week whole body workout with 3 sets of 8-12 reps per exercise to start. From ther it can get a little more complicated and I suggest you consult with a college wrestling coach or go to nsca-lift.org and look at a few articles in their journals on wrestling conditioning and injury prevention. Hope this helps a little...Joe
