The video below shows a group of aspiring wrestlers from the city of Dakar in Western Africa. As you’ll see within, training equipment is essentially nonexistent. Fortunately, these wrestlers make due without the tools that so many assume to be prerequisites for successful training and development.

These wrestlers are a prime example of the old saying, where there’s a will, there’s a way. As we’ve seen before, if you want something bad enough, you’ll find or create the means to get it done.

In summary, it is up to you to make the most of what you have. Fortunately, there is often considerable room to improve with little or nothing.

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To hell with circumstances; I create opportunities. – Bruce Lee

Strongman competitor Dave Ostlund doesn’t need a high-tech gym to compete with some of the strongest men in the world.  As can be seen below, Dave trains at home in his garage.

Next, he can be seen pressing a 300 pound sandbag overhead with ease.  If there was ever an example of a low-tech, high-effect gym, Dave’s garage would rank at the top of the list.  He’s an absolute beast!

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The simplest things are often the truest. – Richard Bach

Time certainly flies.  It has been over three months since the passing of legendary boxer Joe Frazier.  When I first heard the news in early November, I posted several videos of him to the blog.  Unfortunately, I learned last night that two of the videos had been removed from Youtube. While working to correct the entry this morning, I came across a new tribute video that was created a few days ago.  It is among the best I’ve seen.  Therefore, rather than adding it the old entry, I’d rather post it here for everyone to see.

If you are a fan of boxing, I’m sure you will enjoy it.

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I got a burlap sack, put a brick in the middle, and filled it with rags, corncobs, some Spanish moss, and sand. I hung that sack off the branch of an oak tree. I’d wrap my hands with a necktie of my daddy’s and punch at it. My mom gave me an hour a day. My brothers and sisters said, “Nah.” I said, “You’ll see.” – Joe Frazier

The video below tells the powerful story of MMA fighter Rad Martinez.

After watching it for the first time, I found myself at a loss for words. There simply aren’t words to describe just how much Rad has sacrificed for his family. He is obviously a talented fighter but an even more amazing person.

All that I can do is share the video in hopes that others take the time to watch it from beginning to end. Not only does it show that there are still good, caring people in the world, it also reminds us to appreciate what we have. The next time you find yourself complaining about a rough day at the office, take a moment to think about what Rad and his father endure each day.

Best wishes to Rad, both at home and when he steps into the cage.

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Real living is living for others. – Bruce Lee

Thanks to everyone who came out to support us Friday night at the Mohegan Sun Casino.  Chip Perez fought well to earn another unanimous six round decision.  The crowd was on its feet throughout the bout.  It was also great to have Steve Smoger overseeing the action inside the ring.  He’s truly a fighters ref as he rarely steps in to break up the action.

Below you can see us in between rounds…

And Chip celebrating the unanimous decision…

Below is a tribute video of 2011 NCAA wrestling champion Anthony Robles.  Those familiar with this blog may recall seeing a few previous entries about him.  His accomplishments are so incredible however that another post is certainly warranted.

His highlight video is well worth a look…

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Today I will do what others won’t, so tomorrow I can accomplish what others can’t – Jerry Rice

Below is a brief video that was recorded from a new HD camcorder. I’ve uploaded this video to test the quality when set to 720p. I used the jump rope for this test to see how the camera would handle the high speed motion.

Going forward, I will now be able to film all new videos in HD.

Matt Palfrey (from the Sandbag Fitness) has offered to provide readers of RossTraining with a 50 percent discount code on his newly released e-book.  With the discount code, the cost of the book will be approximately $6.

The discount code is ross50

To learn more about the book, please visit the link below:

http://fitedia.com/products/the-complete-guide-to-sandbag-training

The discount code can be entered at the final step in the checkout process.  Matt has agreed to keep the code active until February 12th.  During this time, he’s also offered to provide half of the earnings towards keeping RossTraining up and running.

Thanks to Matt for the offer.

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For those interested in making their own sandbag, below is yet another option (inexpensive and quite durable).

The video below was recently emailed to me by a reader of the site.  When I first opened the clip, I didn’t know who I was watching.  I had never heard of Jack White.  I learned afterward that he is a well known musician and song writer.

As to why I am sharing the clip, my reasons have nothing to do with song writing or creation.  I do however agree with Jack White’s thoughts regarding inspiration and work ethic. He makes a great point about the importance of simply showing up to work. You may not have all of the answers when you begin, but by forcing yourself to work, you’ll certainly be closer to finding out.

Paralysis by analysis hampers many from all walks of life. The best way to avoid it is by getting up and getting busy.

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In the confrontation between the stream and the rock, the stream always wins, not through strength but by perseverance. – H. Jackson Brown

Below is a brief portion of an upcoming documentary entitled the History of MMA.  This clip highlights Fred Ettish and his unique experiences as a mixed martial artist.  The documentary was created by filmmaker Bobby Razak.  I’m privileged to have been briefly involved in one of Razak’s previous videos and he always does a great job.

Within the clip below, you’ll learn of the struggles that Ettish endured as a fighter and more importantly how he refused to succumb to his critics.  He recently returned to the cage at age 53 to earn a victory and balance his record at 1-1.

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Our greatest glory is not in never failing, but in rising up every time we fail. – Ralph Waldo Emerson