Getting Strong on the Cheap

By Doc

            We all want to improve our physical abilities.  Unfortunately, our budget can limit our ability to purchase all the nifty stuff we see advertised.  Here’s a real simple and super cheap way to get strong.

1)      While driving around, keep your eye open for stones unearthed by construction.  When you spot a likely pile, stop and ask one of the workers if you can have some of the stones.  He’ll prolly look at you weird.  You really only need 2 stones.  One that you can barely get into your lap, and one that you can almost press overhead.  The bug may bite you tho’ and then you’ll end up with a pile of 10 or more stones.  This is just fine too.  I never regret having lots of stones until I need to move them to mow…..

2)      Pick a fine sunny day.  Pull on some weather appropriate work clothes, and work gloves if you want. 

3)      Run around the yard.  Do some stretching/calisthenics.  Get nice and warmed up.

4)      Lift the stone you can barely lap as high as you can.  Repeat 5-10 times.  Eventually you want to work up to the point where you are shouldering this stone 10 times each shoulder….then you’ll need a bigger stone.

5)      Now lift the stone you’ve selected to press and take it from the ground to as high overhead as you can.  Repeat 5-10 times.  Progress to 25-30 total reps, then get a larger stone.

6)      Now pick a nice tree branch or swing set crossbar and do a couple sets of chinups.

7)      Finally pick up the stone you were pressing and carry it as far as you can.  Repeat 3 times.

8)      There, time to go inside, lay on the couch and drink milk.  Your significant other may demand you shower before you lay down on the couch…in this case I flop on the bathroom floor for 10 minutes then shower.

9)      Repeat this workout 2-3 times a week. 

I figure it’s pretty cheap and it oughta get you strong.