🎙️ Episode Title: These 4 Exercises Will Optimize Your Workouts

This week’s episode was inspired by a listener-submitted question — and Rob's answers might surprise you. These aren't just his personal favorites; they’re crucial exercises for anyone prepping for time in the mountains.

Here’s what we cover:

💪 Upper Body

• Dips: Ideal for training shoulder extension (something most of us rarely do). They're easily scalable—from bench dips to weighted variations—and hugely effective.
• Pull-Ups: A powerhouse for grip strength, back development, spine decompression, and shoulder mobility. But form and smart progression are key to avoid issues like lat tendonitis.

🏋️‍♂️ Lower Body

• Deadlifts: A full posterior chain builder that reinforces the hinge pattern and raw strength. Rob talks form, mindset, and variations (including good mornings).
• Step Downs: Crucial for building downhill control, hip stability, and ankle integrity—especially relevant for mountain athletes. There’s a wide range of variations to meet any level.

🧠 Clinical Bottom Line: These are Rob’s go-to upper and lower body movements—not because they’re trendy, but because they work. That said, they’re not the only tools in the toolbox. Push-ups and squats still deserve major love for their versatility and foundational value. A smart program blends movement variety and strategic changes in rep ranges.

Wilderness Fitness Readiness Quiz HERE

Wilderness Fitness Institute Website HERE