Welcome to the 25th edition of our weekly open thread. Let’s get started.

Zach opens:

Do you have alternative exercises that fit into the 5×5 if you don’t have access to a squat rack or bench? For various reasons, the only gym I can get to has a handful of machines and free weights (limited to 50lbs), but I still want to get the same benefits as the traditional 5×5 with squats, deadlifts, etc. What about resistance bands?

Zach,

Uh oh, I’m sensing a lack of resourcefulness on your part. Not that I’m judging, because you know we don’t do that around here, but I’m sure you’ve perused this post about finding gyms? What about this one about building one?

If, for some reason, there truly is no workaround, I’m not sure a 5 rep workout is for you. Because the 5 x 5 is most effective when incrementally adding weight over time, and because it sounds like you don’t have equipment to hold said weight, perhaps an alternative form of training will hit the spot for you?

I believe in getting outside to train. Additionally, I do appreciate the occasional session without gym equipment. Take a peek at this post for some ideas.

Strong mind,

Kap

Just want to say as a lifelong Dodger fan I’m excited to have you in our front office. My question: what do you think is one of the biggest obstacles to developing players that are mentally ready for the big leagues?

Ryan,

Thanks for the prompt. Let’s strip out specifics and muse philosophically.

I believe that the development of athletes is intimately connected to development of human beings. Honing attributes like resourcefulness, adaptability, flexibility, communication skills, accountability and more is immeasurably important and valuable, whether you’re in uniform or not.

Imagine an athlete struggling with a mechanical issue. If that individual is equipped to navigate the world generally, they’re logically going to be better at managing a specific issue as well. Inevitably, they’ll practice trial and error, research, use all the tools at their disposal, ask questions and have minds well armored to tackle their necessary adjustment.

The concept of being mentally ready for the big leagues is nebulous one. Attempting to crystallize it, though admirable, may not be our best approach. Instead, we can optimize to strengthen the mind and soul relentlessly and with fearless abandon, trusting that (at minimum) a more powerful human being is definitionally in a better position to capitalize on their athletic gifts.

Strong mind,

Kap

Leave your thoughts below. All topics are fair game; hit me with whatever is on your mind.