Article Rundown

• Answering FAQs
• Lifting at the Arnold
• The stupidest thing I have ever done
• Does Brian only work with powerlifters?
• Other people Brian works with

My First Time Lifting at the Arnold  (2007)

In this video, I address some frequently asked questions about my powerlifting career. The first question concerns one of my first major competitions in 2007, following my tie for first place with Shawn Frankl in 2006 at the WPO Semi-finals in Lake George, NY. Remember, I competed at Senior Nationals in 04, 05, 06, and WPC (04) Worlds before but performed exceptionally well in that 2006 competition. Subsequently, I competed in the Arnold Classic in 2007 for the WPO finals, which marked the final year before the WPO finals hiatus.

Reflecting on that first prime-time meet WPO Finals Arnold in 07; I realize I was unprepared for the moment. I had an underwhelming training cycle leading up to it, and I remember stepping onto the platform while dealing with what I believe was either a torn muscle or a herniated disc in my thoracic spine. This injury manifested as muscular adhesions and sharp pains in the middle of my back. In an ill-advised move, my good friend Adam Driggers administered lidocaine and bupivacaine injections into various trigger points around my back to numb the area for the lift without any prior medical evaluation or imaging. Looking back, this was likely one of the most reckless decisions I’ve made, and I appreciate Adam’s willingness to assist in that misguided choice.

Although the injections allowed me to compete somewhat pain-free, I was not ready. The bright lights, the large audience, and the pressure from a bad training cycle overwhelmed me, causing me to withdraw and fail 3x on the squat, resulting in a bomb-out. This event is one of the lowest points in my powerlifting career. However, the learning experience motivated me to regroup and face future challenges more effectively, contributing to my readiness and success in subsequent competitions. I grew from it and completed another 6x at the Arnold, winning the overall 3x and second 2x.

Does Brian Work With More Than Just Powerlifters?

Another common question I receive is, “Brian, I read your book ‘Gift of Injury,’ co-authored with Dr. McGill. Do you work with people beyond just powerlifters?” The short answer is YES—absolutely! As a low back consultant and a McGill Method certified practitioner, most of my clients are not powerlifters. Instead, I work with a diverse range of individuals, including average people, athletes, and others. Many powerlifters are reluctant to take the necessary time off for recovery; they are training addicts, much like some bodybuilders I have worked with; driven by their passion for the sport. They often need to reach a breaking point before they are willing to commit to a recovery plan.

As discussed in “Gift of Injury,” I had to take significant time off from heavy lifting to recover. Not everyone is prepared to commit, even when necessary, to a successful comeback. For those struggling to recover from lower back pain, I work with a wide array of clients, from 70-year-old grandparents looking to hold their grandchildren to golf professionals aiming for a pain-free return to the tour and UFC fighters dealing with back issues before a major fight. My goal is to assist everyone, regardless of background, to achieve a pain-free state.

The assessment process is tailored to each individual’s injury and goals. We spend considerable time discussing your pain, its triggers, and relief strategies. This comprehensive evaluation helps me create a personalized plan to reach your objectives. Whether you are a Green Beret or an everyday individual, I am dedicated to facilitating your healing and providing the necessary tools for recovery.

Brian’s Services and Testimonials

Most of my current clients are everyday individuals who have experienced injuries due to poor programming and have not found relief through other treatments, such as chiropractic care or massage therapy. I work with clients pre- and post-surgery and offer virtual and in-person consultations. For more information about my services and to read testimonials, please visit [HERE].

BRIAN DOES ONLINE AND IN-PERSON COACHING!

Back Injured Average Mary or Joe who wants their life back

Back Injured Athlete Wanting to Return to Sport

Lift and exercise coaching & cueing to troubleshoot form

Program adherence & accountability coaching