Milo of Croton was a 6th Century BC wrestler, athlete and all-around badass.
He dominated much of the competition for a time lasting what some scholars believe to have been over 20 years. He was one of the earliest Olympic Games champions. However, one of his most famous claims to fame is why he is often referred to as the “father of progressive resistance exercise.”
When Milo was a young man he lifted and carried around a young calf as he cared for it. He did this over the course of 4 years. As the baby calf matured into a young bull, Milo continued to lift and carry it around which in turn caused him to grow stronger. He is said to have carried that animal around until it became a mature bull.
Then, he ate it. By himself. In one sitting. Talk about getting your post-WOD protein!
The story illustrates that strength building and the methods by which it is acquired is nothing new. A progressive increase in stimulus (weight) and the body adapts (strength). That strength is not built overnight. It is skill that must be diligently pursued.
Even with tiny incremental bumps in weight over time, progress can be shocking when looking back, say, 4 years before training was begun.
WOD – 5.8.2012
Turkish Getup 3 X 3/side
“The Chief”
AMRAP 3 Minutes:
3 Power Cleans
6 Pushups
9 Squats
Rest 1 Minute. Repeat for a total of 5 cycles.
