Speed Is An Athlete's Most Important Skill

Speed trainer, Adam Kessler takes a look at several sports where speed is key.  Most know that if you don't run a specific drill in a set time, a coach will be much harder to make an impression on.    Did you know that Chris Johnson ran the fastest 40 at the NFL combine- a 4.24.  As this Columbus, Ohio trainer points out:  If he can continue to work on his speed, so can you.  To read more about how to keep yourself out of the turtle lane, click here:  Speed Is An Athletes Most Important Skill

Athletes That Could Have Been Great

Who would you place on the list of greatest athletes of all time?  Of those whose careers were cut short for whatever reason,  how would they have impacted the world of sports had they been able to play a lengthy career?  After watching ESPN's 30 on 30 film on Bo Jackson, Adam Kessler of Columbus, Ohio, decided to put together a list of whom he considers to be in the league of  "who/what could have been".  To see who this speed trainer put on the list, click here:  Athletes That Could Have Been Great

Crazy Things Competitiveness Makes Some People Do

Do you have a competitive side to you?  How do you channel that competitive spirit?  Do you let it get the best of you and have inappropriate outbursts/behaviors as a result?  Or are you able to accept defeat and learn from the situation?  Adam Kessler admits it's a good thing to have a "healthy" competitive side as it makes us want to become and do more.   As a speed trainer, this Columbus, Ohio native takes a look at some of the good and bad effects of a competitive spirit.   Click here to see what Adam has to say about ones competitive spirit:  Crazy Things Competitiveness Makes Some People Do

Americas Best Speed Training Facilities

Are you looking for a good speed training/sports enhancement facility to help you excel at your sport?  It may be confusing/difficult to find the right one that will provide the best service and results for you.  Adam Kessler takes a look at facilities that are located in various parts of the country and makes his recommendations.  Some of these facilities provide a wide range of services; others just focus on the speed training/sports enhancement.  Click here for this Columbus, Ohio speed trainers top picks:  Americas Best Speed Training Facilities

Creating A Speed Training Program

You want to create your own speed training program?  With input from Adam Kessler of Columbus, Ohio, you can.  In order to see improvements in your speed, you need to have an organized program.  Remember to always begin with warm-ups.  Next are form drills, then power work to develop the leg power needed to get you faster.  You will add resistance/assistance runs as well as lateral and foot quickness drills and some strength training.  You need to pay attention to your running mechanics throughout.  To see specific drills/guidance to use in your program, click here:  Creating A Speed Training Program

Softball And Gymnastics Training Observations

Columbus, Ohio, speed trainer, Adam Kessler, observed local teams during their workouts and/or training.  First was the OSU softball team, training under the direction of Anthony Glass and assistant, Andy Britton.  The girls were focused and knew what they were there to do.  Adam picked up a few new exercises/strategies to use in his training.  Next stop was with Dave Anthony at Universal Gymnastics, Inc. in Hilliard, Ohio.  Adam has been training a couple of gymnasts that train with Dave.  He wanted to see them in their environment to see how he, as a speed coach could help improve their performance(s).  Click here to read more:  Softball And Gymnastics Training Observations

The Right Time To Begin Speed Training

You want to get some speed training in before baseball tryouts happen in 3 weeks.  That should be enough time for Adam Kessler to get me a little faster, right?  WRONG- it takes longer than 3-4 weeks to make the necessary mechanical changes needed to improve your speed.  Adam is a speed trainer in Columbus, Ohio, and his program is set-up to help initially improve your speed in 2 months.  Does that mean you wait until exactly 2 months before tryouts or practices begin to work on improving your speed?  No!  To read when is the opportune time to start, click here:  The Right Time To Begin Speed Training

Which James Bond Actor Is The Most Athletic?

Who would you rank as the most athletic James Bond actor?  Adam Kessler is a big 007 fan, (and a speed trainer to boot!).   With the newest Bond movie, Skyfall, opening November 9th, Adam decided to take a look at the 6 actors who have portrayed Bond to this point and rank them from least athletic to most.  No two are the same, but who does this Columbus, Ohio, trainer rank as the most athletic of them?  AND THE WINNER IS:  Which James Bond Actor Is The Most Athletic?

Columbus Ohio Speed Clients Having Great Success

Courtney Deena and her Columbus Academy field hockey teammates celebrating their state title win.

I wanted to give a shout-out to some of our Columbus, Ohio speed clients (for those of you reading this not from Columbus) who had some athletic success this fall.  Check it out and if you see some of these people congratulate them.  Their hard work certainly paid off.

• I want to begin with Courtney Deena who plays field hockey at my old high school, Columbus Academy.  Courtney's team won the state championship this past weekend.  Courtney was a second team all-American as a junior and will continue playing field hockey at the University of Maryland.
  
• Sticking with field hockey, former Watterson grad Abby Barker, who now plays for Michigan State, was named first team All Big Ten.  She is only a sophomore so still has a few more years to really blossom.
  
• In cross country, sophomore Josie Woosley, qualified for the state cross country meet.  Josie runs for Watkins Memorial.  This past spring she had qualified for the state track meet in the 800M and the 2 mile relay as a freshman.  Hopefully, she will continue to shine as the future looks bright for her.
  
• Freshman Ashley Tan of Dublin Coffman is a tennis player that qualified for the state tennis tournament.  She had an outstanding freshman year and when she worked with us, really improved her speed and lateral quickness.  Another promising young athlete with a potentially nice future ahead of her.
  
• In soccer, Heather Lauefer is the goalie for Pickerington North.  She notched a shutout in the regional finals game as her team advanced to the state semis.  She was also recently profiled in the Dispatch.  Things will only get better for her, as she is hoping for that state title.
  
• Football players Justin Waddle of Grove City, Darryl Long of Westerville South, and Carson Tunney of New Albany all had touchdown receptions for their teams this year.  Hey catching a touchdown is a big deal for high school football players and I'm sure they will remember theirs for years to come.

If you are thinking about optimizing your athletic potential plus improving your speed and quickness, think of us.  Put in the extra hours needed to someday reach some great heights the way these athletes have done.  Look at what they accomplished.  With a little extra effort and our guidance, you too might be talked about having athletic success in the future.

In-Season Strength Training- Do It Or Not?

With the winter sports seasons starting, some may be wondering if you should continue to strength train or not.  You work hard in the pre-season to improve your speed and strength, so that should be good enough, right?  Maybe for the speed, but not the strength.  Adam Kessler is a speed trainer who believes an athlete should continue strength training and to also do active recovery during the in-season.  To see why this Columbus, Ohio trainer believes you should continue with a strength program, click here:  In-Season Strength Training- Do It Or Not?

Can You Really Get Faster?

Did you know you can become faster by improving your strength, your running technique and using the natural talent you were born with?  Speed trainer- (it actually is a JOB!), Adam Kessler works with his clients to get stronger, not only in the core and lower body, but upper as well to maintain balance.  Form/speed drills are incorporated to improve the running mechanics so you can maximize your speed development.  Will you be the next Usain Bolt?  Probably not.  To see how this Columbus, Ohio trainer can get you faster than what you currently are click here:  Can You Really Get Faster?

SQUAT- To Get Faster!

To get faster, you need to be doing squats.  Why?  Speed trainer, Adam Kessler says squats will help to strengthen the muscles in your legs with a movement similar to what is used when you sprint.  Squats hit the glutes, quads and hamstrings in one move.  There are several different types of squats; each one targets a slightly different part of the muscle(s) in your legs.  Do you go parallel or below?  To see this Columbus, Ohio trainers response and how he incorporates squats in his speed training, click here:  SQUAT- To Get Faster

Awesome Athletic Achievements In Columbus

Have you ever been at an athletic event where you went, "WOW- I just saw that happen!"  There will always be spectacular athletic achievements taking place, but Adam Kessler of Columbus, Ohio, takes a look back at some of the gifted/special athletes he has witnessed in his lifetime and their accomplishments.  A number of the athletes that this speed trainer personally witnessed achieving these athletic moments, went on to play college and even professionally.  To see who some of these individuals are and what their achievements were, click here:  Awesome Athletic Achievements In Columbus

Is Speed Training Beneficial For Distance Runners?

Does speed training only benefit sprinters or short distance runners?  Speed trainer, Adam Kessler has 3 former clients that are currently running cross country at division I schools.  So he believes it can benefit both.  Getting stronger through strength training while distance training, an athlete will expend less energy powering the muscles and spend more energy on the cardiovascular output.  This will keep them running longer at a faster pace, on flat surfaces and inclines.  To read more about this Columbus, Ohio trainers views and how he would train distance athletes, click here:  Is Speed Training Beneficial For Distance Runners?

A Look Back At The 100M Race From 1988: Ben Johnson And Carl Lewis

A recent documentary on ESPN, 9.79, takes a look back at the 1988 Olympic 100M dash between Ben Johnson and Carl Lewis.  At question was whether either of these guys had or were taking steroids to enhance their performance.  Adam Kessler, of Columbus, Ohio, recaps the documentary in todays post.   Would either of these guys passed with the better testing of today?  To see what this speed trainer took away from this documentary, click here:  A Look Back At The 100M Rack From 1988: Ben Johnson And Carl Lewis

Age To Start An Athlete Speed Training

A frequent question for speed trainer, Adam Kessler, is how old should my son/daughter be before they can start speed training?  Today, Adam answers that question in a short, 4 minute video clip.  To view this Columbus, Ohio trainers response, click here:  Age To Start An Athlete Speed Training

Speed Training- What Is It?

Today, Adam Kessler, gives further explanation of what, exactly, speed training is.  For a majority of the athletes Adam trains, it means getting faster in short distances.  Not everyone will be an Olympic sprinter, but, everyone can be faster than what they are today.  Whether you play baseball, tennis, field hockey, football, track- to mention a few- speed training is a matter of accelerating to top speed in a short distance.  Several components are worked on during speed training to get you faster.  To see the components and how this Columbus, Ohio, trainer implements them in his program, click here:  Speed Training- What Is It?

Muscle Activation Technique And How It Works

Are you having aches and pains that you wish would just go away?!  Muscle Activation Technique (M.A.T.), might be your answer.  Adam Kessler met Charlie Rowe, a M.A.T. practitioner at Physicians Fitness in Columbus, Ohio.  They talked of how his plantar fasciitis might improve with the M.A.T.  Adam did an evaluation and has been treating for about 7 months.  M.A.T. is one technique that helps to stimulate muscles that are improperly firing and get your body back into proper alignment.  To read more about this speed trainers experience and to see if M.A.T. may help you, click here:  Muscle Activation Technique And How It Works

Developing Confidence In An Athlete

Is confidence something you are born with or does it develop in you as you go through life?  Why are some individuals more confident than others?  As a speed trainer, Adam Kessler, recently talked with a parent of an athlete that is training with him, regarding the kids confidence in his ability to make the freshman team.  This got Adam thinking about what some of the biggest factors are that lead to developing increased confidence in an athlete.  To see the factors this Columbus, Ohio trainer came up with, click here:  Developing Confidence In An Athlete

Your Athletes Secret Weapon May Be Proper Nutrition

Are you getting the proper nutrition to be a successful athlete?  Nutrition is just as important in your training program as speed training or shooting 500 shots a day.  Adam Kessler of Columbus, Ohio, stresses the importance proper nutrition has to his clients increased success.   Are you able to get all the proper nutrition from whole, natural foods?  Sure, but its time consuming.  That is why this speed trainer believes in some supplementation; not steroids or high energy pills though.    To see what Adam recommends you add to your diet to help you become the best athlete you can, click here:  Your Athletes Secret Weapon May Be Proper Nutrition

How Long Will It Take To Get Faster?

You want to increase your speed- how long will it take?  Will you really get faster?  Adam Kessler, gets these and similar questions from athletes (and parents) interested in improving their speed.  Speed trainers analyze all aspects of an individuals running form to see where improvements can be made.  If small amounts of improvement are made in each area, then you get faster.  How long it takes varies.  At his Columbus, Ohio, facility, Adam tells clients, for most it will take about two months.  Click here to read more if you are ready to improve your speed:  How Long Will It Take To Get Faster?

Miles Austin's Hamstring Injury

Are Miles Austin's hamstring issues a training problem?  Why wouldn't Austin have spent time in the off-season (or did he?) strengthening his hamstrings when he had lingering issues throughout most of last season?  If you follow the posts of speed trainer Adam Kessler, then you know he believes your hamstrings need to be strengthened in order to optimize your speed.  Click here to see what this Columbus, Ohio, trainer would do to get Miles' (and your) hamstrings healthy:  Miles Austin's Hamstring Injury

Atmosphere At An OSU Home Football Game

With the start of the 2012 football season taking place this past weekend, Columbus, Ohio's, Adam Kessler, attended OSU's opener against Miami (Ohio).  It is estimated that upwards of half a million people are by the stadium tailgating during home games.  Since the shoe only holds 110,000, that's alot of tailgaters!  What is the atmosphere like in the stadium during game time then?  Click here to read about this speed trainers experience of Urban Meyer's debut as new coach of the Buckeyes:  Atmosphere At An OSU Home Football Game

Do Speed Training To Prevent Knee Injuries

Why does it seem that more athletes are suffering major knee injuries?  Adam Kessler says researchers are finding some of these injuries could be prevented if the athlete's hamstring was stronger.  The hamstring, quadriceps and calf muscle help to stabilize the knee.  If you can get your hamstring strength to be about 80% of your quad strength, that is optimal for both knee stabilization and speed development.  Proper landing technique is key to both to get the joint used to that type of impact and develop explosiveness.  To read what this Columbus, Ohio, speed trainer recommends you do to prevent knee injuries and increase your speed, click here:  Do Speed Training To Prevent Knee Injuries

Melky Cabrera- First Cheater Or Last? Most Likely Neither

After failing 2 drug tests recently, there are probably a larger number of individuals that know who this years All-Star game MVP Melky Cabrera is.  With Cabrera's recent 50 game suspension, speed trainer, Adam Kessler, provides some insight on how athletes testosterone levels are tested and wonders why Cabrera would take a drug if there was potential for getting caught, and ultimately, suspended.  To see what this Columbus, Ohio, native has to say about performance enhancing drugs (PED's) and Cabrera's suspension, click here:  Melky Cabrera- First Cheater Or Last? Most Likely Not

Remaining Fueled For August Football Practices

With football practices in full swing, Columbus, Ohio's, Adam Kessler, gives insight on how to remain hydrated, in what is typically the hottest month of the year.  With this years record breaking July temperatures and practices already occurring for most teams, your "heat training/conditioning" has already begun.   Remaining hydrated is a 24/7 job for football players in the heat.  Proper hydration includes eating to help avoid the nausea that occurs from low sugar levels.  Click here to see what this speed trainer suggests you do to have a successful August in preparation for your upcoming football season:  Remaining Fueled For August Football Practices

Gold Medal Workout Of Olympian Ryan Lochte

Do swimmers need to do dry land workouts in conjunction with their water workouts to succeed?  Adam Kessler found that for Olympian, Ryan Lochte, the answer is yes.  This speed trainer found that Lochte not only puts in long hours in the pool, but also does 90 minutes to 3 hours of strongman training as well as an additional 3 hours during the week of conventional weight training.  To see what exercises this Columbus, Ohio trainer found that Lochte does to be an Olympic champion, click here:  Gold Medal Workout Of Olympian Ryan Lochte

Better Performance Diet For OSU Football Team

Are you an athlete that is wanting to increase your muscle mass, lose some weight or just trying to get into better physical condition?  If so, then you must know, in order to achieve any of the pre-mentioned, you need to properly fuel your body.  Speed trainer, Adam Kessler, has blogged about this in the recent past.  Today he highlights the fact that Urban Meyer has added dietician, Sarah Wick, to Ohio State's football program.  To see how this Columbus, Ohio, football team is doing with their dietary changes, click here:  Better Performance Diet For OSU Football Team

2012 Ironman 70.3 Vineman Title Winner- Meredith Kessler

Adam Kessler, spent last weekend cheering on his sister-in-law, Meredith Kessler, as she competed in the Vineman 70.3 Ironman.  This is basically a half marathon that took place just north of San Francisco.  Meredith recently finished 2nd in the Rev3 Portland half Ironman.  Two weeks prior to that, she had captured her third Ironman title at the Coeur d'Alene Ironman in Idaho.  To see how this Columbus, Ohio speed trainers sister-in-law fared in her latest competition, click here:  2012 Ironman 70.3 Vineman Title Winner- Meredith Kessler

Workout Routine For Bryce Harper

At age 19, Bryce Harper was the youngest position player to ever be in an all-star game.  What does Bryce do for workouts?  The internet did not provide much information.  Adam Kessler, of Columbus, Ohio, provides input as to what he would have this natural athlete do.  Due to the fact that he is a baseball player, throws and hits (mostly) with one arm, he could develop muscle imbalances.  Adam would do a body assessment, such as the Functional Movement Screen to identify any imbalances.  To see what a recommended routine from this speed trainer would be, click here:  Workout Routine For Bryce Harper

Want To Get Drafted? This Is What NOT To Do

Hoping to get drafted in your particular sport?  What are you doing to prepare yourself for this all important "interview?"  Adam Kessler takes a look at how the drafts basically work and gives his perspective on some of the recent NBA hopefuls and where they may have fallen short in their performances.  If you are wanting to be a top draft hopeful, isn't it worth the time and effort to put in a little extra work to get yourself in optimum athletic shape?  To get this Columbus, Ohio, speed trainers perspective, click here:  Want To Get Drafted? This Is What NOT To Do

Keeping Energy Levels High During Exercise

Dizziness and loss of muscle function will happen when dehydrated as well as when your body isn't properly fueled.  Because of the similarities between dehydration and low energy, Adam Kessler, of Columbus, Ohio, discusses how to keep your body properly fueled so you will be at the top of your game.  Proper nutrition is key to optimizing not only your workout, but your performance throughout the day.  Carbohydrates are your FRIEND!  Brown rice, whole grains, fruit- not cookies and candy bars.  To see this speed trainer recommendations on how to stay energized during your workouts, click here:  Keeping Energy Levels High During Exercise 

Staying Hydrated In Extreme Heat

With the summer heat quickly rising, not just in Columbus, Ohio, but across the whole United States, Adam Kessler offers suggestions on staying hydrated in the extreme heat while participating in sports/activities.  If you are feeling thirsty, you are already dehydrated.  As a speed trainer, Adam recommends that his athletes drink half their body weight in fluid ounces on their off days.  Training or sports days, you obviously need to be drinking more.  Sodium is also a crucial mineral, that when depleted, leads to faster cramping.  To read Adam's recommendations on how to "beat the heat", click here:  Staying Hydrated In Extreme Heat

A High School Teams Complete Speed Training Program

Recently, Columbus, Ohio, speed trainer, Adam Kessler spoke at the Ohio NSCA State Clinic about his complete speed training program for high school teams.  He received some feedback from some of the attendees.  To summarize, the two areas you need to improve on in order to run faster are running mechanics and strength.  It is possible to implement both into your program in a way that maximizes the athletes time.  Adam suggests utilizing a strength program that works well for your team overall, but to also incorporate specific strengthening exercises for optimal development.  To see Adam's program and feedback on how you can put together your own program, click here:  A High School Teams Complete Speed Training Program

A Complete Football Training Plan For Summer

Football training already?!  Yep, seems every sport starts earlier each year.  So, what are you doing to improve your strength and speed development, as well as overall conditioning for the upcoming football season?  Adam Kessler of Columbus, Ohio, gives his insight and recommendations on how to make the most out of your time and energy during your workouts.  There are drills to do now, and drills to add in during the next month or two.  This speed trainer also encourages players to do neck exercises to help prevent concussions.  To see what Adam's training would consist of, click here:  A Complete Football Training Plan For Summer

Strength Coach, Buddy Morris Interview

Former Cleveland Browns strength coach, Buddy Morris did a QnA with speed trainer, Adam Kessler.  Buddy is one of the most respected strength coaches in the industry.  Having also trained athletes at the University of Pittsburg from 1980-1990 and then again 1997-2001, Buddy gave some great answers to this Columbus, Ohio trainers questions.  To view this QnA session, click here:  Strength Coach, Buddy Morris Interview

Speaking Engagement At NSCA State Clinic

The NSCA Ohio Strength and Conditioning State Clinic was held this past weekend in Columbus, Ohio, in Ohio Stadium on the OSU campus.  Adam Kessler, a Columbus speed trainer, had the privilege of speaking at the clinic.  To see what other prominent strength coaches presented at the clinic, as well as a quick overview of their speaking topic, click here:  Speaking Engagement At NSCA State Clinic

Part 2 Talk With Mark Watts, Denison University Strength Coach

Adam Kessler, recently completed a QnA session with Mark Watts.  Mark is the Strength and Conditioning Coach at Denison University in Granville, Ohio.  This is the 5th year that Mark has hosted the Central Ohio Strength and Conditioning Clinic at Denison.  This year he asked this Columbus, Ohio, speed trainer to talk at the event.  Adam took the opportunity then to hold a QnA with Mark.  To see the second part of this interview, click here:  Part 2 With Mark Watts, Denison University Strength Coach

Part 1 Talk With Mark Watts, Denison University Strength Coach

Adam Kessler of Columbus, Ohio, held a QnA with Mark Watts, the Director of Strength and Conditioning at Denison University in Granville, Ohio.  This was the 5th year that Mark held the Central Ohio Strength and Conditioning Clinic at Denison.  As a speed trainer, Adam was asked to speak at this years clinic that was held May 4th and 5th.    Click here to read the QnA that Adam did with Mark prior to the clinic taking place:  Part 1 Talk With Mark Watts, Denison University Strength Coach

Does Running A Fast 40 Guarantee You Will Get Drafted?

Adam Kessler of Columbus, Ohio had made his predictions for the 2012 NFL draft based solely on  players combine results.  To see how this speed trainers predictions of which player would be drafted and during which round and whether or not they were drafted, click here:  Does Running A Fast 40 Guarantee You Will Get Drafted?

Defensive NFL Draft Predictions- Combine Results Based

Today, Adam Kessler of Columbus, Ohio, makes his NFL defensive draft predictions.  These predictions are based on the players performance and results from the NFL Combine.  Again, there will be names that you may not necessarily have heard of, but, as defensive players, they had a good performance at the combine.  Click here to see who this speed trainer picked for defensive end, defensive tackle, outside linebacker, inside linebacker, safety and cornerback:  Defensive NFL Draft Predictions- Combine Results Based

Offensive NFL Draft Predictions- Combine Results Based

Today, Adam Kessler of Columbus, Ohio, makes his NFL offensive draft predictions.  These predictions are based on the players performance and results from the NFL Combine.  There will be names that you may not necessarily have heard of, but they had a good performance at the combine.  Click here to see who this speed trainer picked for running back, wide receiver, tight end, tackle, guard and center:  Offensive NFL Draft Predictions- Combine Results Based 

Supplements And Youth Athletes

Should my child take supplements?  There is no easy answer to this question.  Adam Kessler gives insight into his thoughts on why and what specific product line he recommends.  He is not advocating HGH use or the long lettered, hard to pronounce products manufactured who knows where.  This Columbus, Ohio, speed trainer promotes products developed by reputable companies that are backed by research studies.  He encourages the use of meal replacement bars, protein shakes and multi-vitamins in conjunction with a healthy diet.  To read more and to see what product Adam endorses, click here:  Supplements And Youth Athletes 

Speed Training Improvement From Our Columbus Clients

We have had a lot of written testimonials about our speed training service in Columbus, but now I'm starting to do video testimonials.  You need to hear it from the people themselves how we help athletes run faster and get quicker for their sport.  These are the first three that I've created.

The first one is from Armand Robinson who trained with me last year.  This video was actually on my fanpage at http://facebook.com/adamkesslerfanpage (go ahead and like it please).  We worked all summer to get him ready for an NFL training camp once the lockout ended.

The other two videos were done within the last week from a couple of parents.  These two are both under 50 seconds a piece, so take a look at them and let us know if we can help your athlete get faster.

OSU Strength Coach, Anthony Glass Q & A Session

Recently, Adam Kessler held a QnA session with Anthony Glass.  Anthony is the director of strength and conditioning for Olympic Sports at Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio.  This covers women's volleyball and gymnastics, wrestling, field hockey and men's track and field.  As a speed trainer, Adam not only asked Anthony questions relating to speed, but also about himself and sport training in general.  To read more, click here:  OSU Strength Coach, Anthony Glass Q & A Session

Top 5 Worst Ideas When Training For Speed

Has anyone ever told you "no pain, no gain" when it comes to training for your sport?  Do you believe it?  Adam Kessler of Columbus, Ohio, shares the top 5 all-time worst ideas when it comes to training for increased speed.  Some of these ideas have been around for a while; others are more recent.  It should be noted that in the last several years, there have been tremendous advancements in training athletes to be faster.  As a speed trainer, Adam invites you to take a look at these bad ideas.   Maybe you can increase your speed after all!  Click here to view:  Top 5 Worst Ideas When Training For Speed

Andrew Luck's NFL Combine Workout Analyzed

Will Andrew Luck be the first or second round pick in the 2012 NFL draft?  We will know the answer in a couple weeks.  Today, Adam Kessler of Columbus, Ohio, analyzes his running and leaping drills- not exactly what teams are looking at in a quarterback, but as a speed trainer, this is what Adam is going to review.  In comparison to Cam Newton and Tim Tebow, Luck's times in the 20 yard shuttle and 3 cone drill ranked in the top times for quarterbacks at the combine.  To see more of the breakdown of his performance at the combine workout, click here:  Andrew Luck's NFL Combine Workout Analyzed

Baseball- Running A Fast 60 Yard Dash

With baseballs 2012 opening day upon us, Adam Kessler discusses running a fast 60 yard dash.  What is considered a good 60 time?  An average in the major leagues is 6.9 seconds.  This speed trainer, from Columbus, Ohio, breaks down the areas you need to work on in order to run a fast 60.  To see what drills you should be doing to improve your 60 yard dash time, click here:  Baseball- Running A Fast 60 Yard Dash

Columbus Speed Trainer Shows New Exercise To Improve Speed

I've had a bunch of video that I made last summer just sitting there.  I've posted some of the videos on Youtube, but I still have a couple more left.  All the videos were on different aspects of speed training, showing you some of the things we do in Columbus to get our athletes faster.  Here's the latest video I have.  It's a short one, but a good one demonstrating how to improve your hamstring strength.  I'd appreciate if you went to Youtube as well and Liked the video if you get the chance.  Enjoy!

If you live in Columbus, get your athletes in to meet us and see how our speed training program can make you run faster, quicker, and be overall more explosive.

Baseball Training- Essential Exercises For Your Workout

With the start of another baseball season upon us, speed trainer, Adam Kessler, shares the exercises he says "are a must" for all baseball players to be doing.  Hopefully, you have already been doing these in preparation for the season.  If not, then make sure to put them into your routine for next years season.  What do you think this Columbus, Ohio trainer says are essential exercises to be doing?  Click here to see the the list:  Baseball Training- Essential Exercises For Your Workout

Peyton Manning's (Superbowl?) Workout

With the announcement last week of Peyton Manning signing with the Denver Broncos, Adam Kessler takes a look at a recent workout he was doing at a D1 facility in Tennessee.  After sitting out last season following major neck surgery, is Peyton ready to lead the Broncos to the Super Bowl?  This Columbus, Ohio, speed trainer, goes over the drills Peyton was doing and the benefits of each to his prepping for the upcoming NFL season.  Click here to read the review of this hard working quarterback's current workout:  Peyton Manning's (Superbowl?) Workout

Columbus Ohio Athletes Get Season Ending Recognition

Throughout the years, we have had the opportunity to provide speed training to a lot of great Columbus, Ohio athletes.  Some have gone on to have great careers at whatever level they might have finished at.  With the winter season starting to come to an end, I wanted to recognize some of the former athletes we have trained who received some end of the year awards for their sports participation.

Just by coincidence, all these Columbus athletes we helped train just happen to be basketball players.

• Alex Radkiewicz (Olentangy Liberty) - Honorable Mention All-OCC Cardinal, Alex was the lone junior starter on a team that won a district championship.
• Zach Ratcliff (Columbus Academy) - Honorable Mention All-State Division III, Zach had various other awards as well which I won't list.  He helped his team to a district championship this year.
• Alyssa Rice (Reynoldsburg) - Second Team All-State Division I, Alyssa made first team All District and All Metro as well, but only made Second Team in her league.  Something doesn't add up.  Her team made it to the state semifinals.
• Ronnie Stokes (Gahanna) - Honorable Mention All-OCC Ohio
• Jonathan Van Gundy (Groveport) - Honorable Mention All-OCC Ohio
• Stephen Walczak (Olentangy) - Honorable Mention All-Central District Division I, Honorable Mention All Metro, and First Team All-OCC Cardinal

Great job everyone.  It was fun following your basketball season this year.

2012 List Of The 25 Fittest U.S. Cities

A month ago, speed trainer, Adam Kessler reviewed the 25 fattest U.S. cities.  Today, he reviews the 25 fittest as ranked in Men's Fitness magazine.  Again, some on this list may surprise you.  Which state do you think has the most cities on the fittest list?  Do you recall the state that had the most on the fattest list?  Could they possibly be on this list?  Well, they are with 2!  For those of you who think you are from a "fit" city, click here to see if you made the cut:  2012 List Of The 25 Fittest U.S. Cities

How The Best Speed Program Is Created For You

How does a speed trainer develop a successful program for all levels and abilities of athletes? For Adam Kessler of Columbus, Ohio, his program begins with an assessment. This provides the trainer the opportunity to look at the running mechanics; body movement; asking about your goals; taking certain measurables. Following the assessment, training will not only consist of form drills and plyometrics, but also agility and foot quickness drills, to mention a few. The program is adjusted for age and ability, focusing on the individual athlete. Click here to read more about this successful program: How The Best Speed Program Is Created For You

Keeping Sports In Perspective

The recent bounty controversy brought to light in the NFL, has Adam Kessler of Columbus, Ohio, wondering about the role models our youth have to look up to. A parent yelling at the teenage referee; a youth coach telling his young players to "take out" another player on the opposing team; the "childish" behavior or obnoxious yelling by a parent/fan at a sporting event- most likely, you have witnessed something similar. To read more about what this speed trainer has to say about these behaviors and supposed role models for todays youth, click here: Keeping Sports In Perspective

RG3- Robert Griffin III's Combine Workout

Who will be the #1 NFL draft pick in 2012- Robert Griffin III (RG3) or Andrew Luck? Adam Kessler of Columbus, Ohio, created a short video highlighting RG3's 40 time and makes note of what he did correctly. As a speed trainer, Adam mentions that he would have liked to have seen RG3 do a pro agility drill, as it is a more applicable test for an individual in his position. What is the pro agility drill? Click here to read about the pro agility drill and to see Adam's video highlight of RG3 at the combine: RG3- Robert Griffin III's Combine Workout

Columbus' Arnold Sports Festival

Some 250,000 people descended on Columbus, Ohio this past weekend for the Arnold Sports Festival. Speed trainer, Adam Kessler, notes how the festival has grown in his hometown, over the past 20 years. It is now much more than just a body building event, with some 15,000 athletes participating in a wide variety of events. It goes beyond the athletes, as the Terminator and several other notable celebrities show up each year. To see what some of the events are and what Olympic and National Team Trials took place this year, click here: Columbus' Arnold Sports Festival

Dunking A Basketball

With the 2012 NBA dunk contest behind us, Adam Kessler discusses how you can work on your attempt to dunk a basketball. Although Adam is a speed trainer, some of the same principals apply to both speed training and learning how to dunk a basketball; with some modifications. Although there are certain things that you cannot change- height and size of hand for starters- you can work on your plyometrics and strength training to increase your chance of dunking a basketball. To see the workout this Columbus, Ohio, speed trainer would have the high school or older athlete do, click here: Dunking A Basketball

2012 List Of The 25 Fattest Cities

Speed trainer, Adam Kessler reviews the 2012 list of the 25 fattest cities in America as ranked in Men's Fitness magazine. If you haven't seen this list, some of the cities on it may surprise you. Which city do you think is #1 on the list? Which has the highest percentage of obesity? To see if Columbus, Ohio, or your city made the list, click here: 2012 List Of The 25 Fattest Cities

2012 Dunk Contest Debate

Will you be watching the NBA dunk contest this weekend? Do you even know who is in the contest?! Adam Kessler, weighs in on whom he thinks would draw the larger viewing crowd. Suffice it to say, his list does not include any of the players that are in the contest. To see who this Columbus, Ohio, speed trainer would have in the contest and why (and who actually is participating), click here: 2012 Dunk Contest Debate

Jeremy Lin-Quickness Workout

Two weeks ago, if someone mentioned the name Jeremy Lin, you most likely would have said, "Jeremy who?" Today, most have heard of Lin and the latest sports craze "linsanity". Lin has helped lead the Knicks to seven straight wins, including a last second 3 point shot Tuesday night. Not surprising, Columbus, Ohio's Adam Kessler was unsuccessful in his attempts to contact Lin to inquire about his training program. Thus, this speed trainer has put together a program to help Lin increase his speed and lateral quickness. To check out the exercise program that Adam has put together, click here: Jeremy Lin-Quickness Workout

Increasing Your Confidence For Your Sport

Are you an athlete that needs to increase your confidence to be successful on the playing field? If so, Adam Kessler of Columbus, Ohio, would like to share his thoughts/experience on how he has helped develop confidence in athletes that he trains. There are several components that help you become more confident in your athletic abilities. Preparation is the main one. To read about how this speed trainer helps his athletes to increase their confidence, click here: Increasing Your Confidence For Your Sport

What Injury Prevention Is Needed In The NBA and NFL?

Are we going to see the same thing happening in the NBA that happened in the NFL this year in regards to increased injuries because of the lockouts? Speed trainer, Adam Kessler, notes that ten NFL players were done with their season in the first two months. Nine more were added as the season progressed. Thus far in the NBA season, there are 8 injured players. Would these injuries have ultimately happened? Who knows, but the shortened training camp meant there were a large number of players that weren't properly preparing for their season. To read this Columbus, Ohio trainers input on why training is needed prior to the start of a sport season, click here: What Injury Prevention Is Needed In The NBA and NFL?

The "Super Bowl of All Speed Workouts"

In honor of Super Bowl XLVI, Adam Kessler of Columbus, Ohio, is providing an intense workout that is recommended for the high school and older athlete to increase their speed. There are three exercises that must be included in your workout in order to increase your total body strength that will help you get faster. You will want to develop a total body routine that includes these three strength exercises. Once you are stronger, you will incorporate running mechanic drills and plyometrics into your routine. To read this speed trainers complete workout, click here: The "Super Bowl of All Speed Workouts"

Columbus Ohio Athlete Makes Speed Improvement

I like to promote some of the Columbus, Ohio athletes that work with us for speed training.  Speed training is our business and what we do best and that is what we try to focus on. 

Sydney Gammon is a local softball player who came to us to improve her speed so she could have a stellar season for her high school softball team.  She's been with us now for a little over two months and we just had a reassessment.  Sydney did great!!

Here are some of her changes:

10 Yard Dash - 1.87 (pre), 1.74 (post)
20 Yard Dash - 3.41 (pre), 3.22 (post)
Vertical Jump - 15.2" (pre), 17.1" (post)

Awesome job Sydney!  If you want to improve your speed and quickness and get results like Sydney, come and check us out.  We'd love to meet you.

To Stop His Losing Streak- A New Workout For Andy Roddick

Andy Roddick was to be Americas next Andre Agassi, Pete Sampras or Jim Courier. Why is it that he has not won tennis' grand slam championship since 2003? Columbus, Ohio, speed trainer, Adam Kessler found some "reliable" sources with insight into Andy's current workout routine. Andy does a lot of core work- obviously necessary for a tennis player. Leg work tends to be done on a track. After reviewing Andy's workout, Adam would like to offer him a new routine. To see what Andy's workout entails and the new workout Adam suggests to hopefully stop this losing streak, click here: To Stop His Losing Streak- A New Workout For Andy Roddick

The Solution To Running Faster Could Be Easy Weight Loss

We all know, or should know, that excess weight tends to slow us down. More specifically, fat weight. If you are able to lose some of those extra fat pounds, you won't be as heavy, you should be able to increase your range of motion and ultimately, run faster. Speed and wellness trainer, Adam Kessler of Columbus, Ohio, looks at the difference between an individual with 10% and 20% bodyfat and how it could potentially affect their training. Don't forget, you need to properly fuel your body to get the most effective weight loss as well. To read about weight loss and your training, click here: The Solution To Running Faster Could Be Easy Weight Loss

Rest-A Missing Element to Running Faster?

How much rest does a person need to allow their body to rejuvenate and feel fresh so they get the most out of their training program? Speed trainer, Adam Kessler of Columbus, Ohio, "strategically" plans rest periods for his personal training program. He has 3 specific times each year that he takes a week off of training. During these rest periods, he will usually stop his lifting program, but still does some cardio and stretching. So, how much rest does your body need to help you get faster, stronger? When should you include these rest periods? Click here to read: Rest-A Missing Element to Running Faster?

Speed Workout of Tim Tebow's

After posting a blog about Tim Tebow's workout a couple months ago, today, Columbus, Ohio, speed trainer, Adam Kessler takes a look at Tim's speed workout. While at Florida, Tebow improved his speed by running stadium stairs; up and down every aisle for a total of about 1500 steps in "The Swamp" stadium. Mickey Marotti, Tim's strength coach at Florida (now at Ohio State) would have him do speed drills, when fresh, at full speed. To read more about Tebow's speed program and see what training Adam would have him do to improve his speed and acceleration, click here: Speed Workout of Tim Tebow's

Re-Capping The Highlights Of Me And My Business in 2011

Well, the next time I will be talking with you it will be 2012. Can you believe that is the year?? I can remember when 2000 was coming and the world was supposed to go into chaos because of the electronical meltdown that was going to happen. What I wanted to do today was just kind of share some of the highlights of my business and myself this past year and discuss a few things I wanted to accomplish in this coming year. These highlights are in no particular order. Basically, as I remembered them while writing this post.

• After several years at our current location, the lease was coming up for Ohio Sports Plus. Toni Roesch, the owner of OSP, asked if I wanted to follow her to the new location and so I did. Moving my facility for hopefully the last time for awhile, we have moved to 4140 Tuller Road, Suite 118, Dublin, OH 43017. We moved 30 seconds away from our old place, which was great because I love that area of town. Hope to see you there in 2012.
• I purchased my first speed sled and we have been able to do some great exercises with it. I really think it will be a great tool to use to improve our athletes' speed. I also created a Youtube video using it that you can watch by clicking here.
• Speaking of Youtube. My fitness channel there has grown to over 1000 subscribers. You can see my Youtube channel by clicking here. One of those videos, my Cam Newton video, became my most popular video by a longshot with over 56,000 views (15 likes and 59 dislikes). I posted around 30 videos this year and will look for more in 2012.
• I created a facebook fanpage for yours truly. I posted some fun pics, a few videos you will only see there, and hopefully sparking commentary with the fans. Like the page by clicking here.
• I worked with my first NFL hopeful this year, Armand Robinson, who was the star of the aforementioned speed sled video. He made it all the way to the last preseason game with the Steelers, but unfortunately they got a superstar group of receivers and Armand was cut. He's got some opportunities in the future with the CFL and hopefully another shot at the NFL so we will see what happens. A great athlete, but an even better person, I hope he does well.
• I turned 40 this year and celebrated by watching my sis-in-law capture second place at the Ironman Wisconsin. I had a fun time and the experience has inspired me to launch a class I will talk about it in my outlook for 2012 section below.
• My body is going through some more aches and pains than I like, but I'm learning how to become aware of them and hopefully correct them. Thus, I'm dealing with my first issue of plantar fasciitis. With stretching and ice, I have done wonders for the pain and hopefully will eliminate it shortly. I also learned that from my athlete days (especially being a long jumper), I have some arthritis in my hips causing some issues down to the plantar fasciitis. Minor stuff that I think can be improved, but hey I'm only human.
• We worked with over 85 clients this year. Most of them were athletes wanting to get faster and I think we helped each and every one. They were athletes who played football, basketball, baseball, softball, gymnastics, field hockey, lacrosse, soccer, volleyball, track, cross country, and I think that is it.
• I had my first online clients this year. One cilent is local, but lives pretty far away so can only see me every so often. We skype inbetween. The other client is a professional whitewater canoe slalom athlete from Australia. She hired me to help her prep for some big races and possibly the Olympics. I hope to share some more good details about that.
• I launched my new speed website http://howtorunfasternow.com and it is slowly becoming quite poplular on the internet. SEO guru, Gere Jordan, has been helping me with that and has done an awesome job. Already our Alexa ranking is less than a million, which is great. Three weeks ago it was around 2 million+, so we're doing good things there.
• I had my first two interns this year and it turned out to be pretty good for them. In fact, I will be hiring one of my interns for 2012. A former athlete of mine, I will discuss more in the upcoming weeks.
• Last year on New Year's Eve, I and some other alumni went back to Columbus Academy (my old high school) to scrimmage the varsity basketball team. We ended up beating them by 30. This year, we look to play on New Year's Eve to help our aging egos. Hey, after last year the team had a pretty good season, so I'll keep you posted on how we do.
• My wellness clients and I had a great holiday outing. I only have a few of them so I took them out to dinner with their spouses and we had a great time. They continue to trust in my training that I can keep them healthy or get them to where they want to be and I thank them for that.
• One of the best things that has happened to my biz is hiring my administrative assistant, Kim Lex. The mother of a couple clients that I worked with, she was brave enough to accept the job of figuring out my quirks, get into my head, and understand the method of my madness. She has really helped make the biz run smoothly and chances are you have talked with her at one point or another. She does an awesome job for me and the company.
• Other than that, I can't think of anything else. My wife and kids are great. The extended family is great, no worries. 2012 will hopefully bring some more fun times ahead. Speaking of 2012....

Some upcoming attractions for the business in 2012:

• I hope to take http://howtorunfasternow.com to a whole new level. I have one information product I sell on there, I'm hoping to add a couple more, plus add a membership site to it.
• With my new hire, I will be starting a strength training class for endurance athletes in January. The class is for any endurance enthusiast that not only wants to improve times, but also prevent injuries.
• I look to help more athletes in 2012 then I did in 2011.
• I want to add more q&a videos to my Youtube channel. Meaning, if you have quick questions I can answer, I will answer in a short video and post on Youtube.
• I want to grow my facebook fanpage to a lot more fans.
• I have been offering an Active Recovery Program, but only a couple people have taken advantage of it. They really think it helps them recover better from their workouts. So I want to do more promoting of that program.
• I am going to have some client celebration for all my athletes at some point this year. Just don't know what it will be.
• I want to expand my online coaching. I think this is a great program and can really be useful for people all over our country and obviously the world if my second client was an Australian.
• And a whole bunch of other things I can't think of right now. Happy New Year and see you in 2012!!!

How To Run A Fast 40: Prepping for the NFL Combine

In Timothy Ferriss' new book, "The 4-Hour Body", one thing he wanted to do was see how fast a person could get in order to run a 40 yard dash for an NFL combine. He sought input from Joe DeFranco, who has worked with a large number of individuals prepping for the actual NFL combine. Speed trainer, Adam Kessler of Columbus, Ohio, uses some of DeFranco's teachings when training his athletes for the 40 yard dash or football combines. To read about some of the suggestions Ferriss says you should consider doing when training to run a fast 40, click here: How To Run A Fast 40: Prepping for the NFL Combine