Julian McKerrow on Power Lifting, Competing, Rehab and Recovery

The Bodcast with Chloe Madeley

In this Bodcast episode Chloe welcomes back Julian McKerrow, a four-time world powerlifting champion. They discuss powerlifting as a sport and its core disciplines, such as squat, bench press, and deadlift. Julian shares his favourite and least favourite lifts and they also talk about competition day performance and Julian's personal best numbers. We chat about Julian's vegetarian diet and the importance of a balanced diet. The topic of steroids in the fitness industry is also addressed, with Julian sharing his perspective. The episode concludes with Julian sharing his journey of recovery and resilience after a serious injury that Julian picked up while sleeping.

Favourite and Least Favourite Lifts (03:25)

Julian shares that his favorite and best lift is the deadlift, while his least favorite is the squat. He explains that his preference for deadlifts stems from his early training experience and lack of guidance in squatting.

The importance of rest and peaking (10:50)

Discussion on the optimal number of competitions, the need for rest and recovery, and the impact of nerves on performance.

Training structure and programming (12:00)

Overview of the training cycle leading up to a competition, including the use of waves and six-week blocks, tapering, and the importance of maintaining movement patterns.

Nutrition and weight management (15:57)

Strategies for managing weight before a competition, including meal timing, carb consumption, and techniques like water loading and cutting. Safety precautions and the importance of rest and hydration are also discussed.

Choosing the Right Weight Class (26:43)

Julian discusses how powerlifters determine the appropriate weight class for competition and the trade-off between losing strength and being competitive in a lighter weight class.

Accessory Work for Bench Press (23:20)

Julian explains the importance of upper back work as a key accessory exercise for improving bench press performance.

Vegetarian Nutrition (29:05)

Julian talks about his lifelong vegetarianism, his reasons for sticking with it, and how he ensures adequate protein intake for recovery and muscle synthesis.

The importance of genetics and work ethic in sports (33:15)

Highlighting the role of genetics and hard work in becoming an elite athlete, using the example of a world champion powerlifter.

Recovering from nerve damage (35:35)

Julian shares their experience of waking up with nerve damage, the pain and weakness they experienced, and the rehabilitation process to regain movement.

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