GPT – Learning in the Summer of ’09
Hi All,
I had a chance to go to a speed and agility certification with the IYCA (International Youth Conditioning Association). It was hosted by Brain Grasso and run by Lee Taft founder of the Taft Speed Academy. I learned a great deal about linear as well as multidirectional speed and quickness. I wish I hand known many of these pointers back in my own competitive days of track and field. One simple reminder is to try to run faster compared to try harder. When you try harder you tighten up and slow down.
I look forward to getting out into the community and teaching these skills to teams in the Region of all ages and abilities. If you know any groups that might be interested in a 1.5 hour clinic please pass them my name as I would be interested in working with a variety of groups.
Coach G
Speed Specialist Lee Taft
IYCA Speed and Agility 2009 with Brian Grasso
First Chopper Ride in the Rockies
Hi All,
Mount Shark Helicopter Pad just south of Canmore, Alberta. Kelly and I are heading to Mt. Assiniboine Lodge for a few nights of amazing hiking in one of the most rustic places in the Rockies. There are 2 ways to get there by foot or by helicopter. Loving the flight that we had in NZ a few summer earlier we opted for the 15 minute heli ride both ways instead of an 8 hour hike. We were not disappointed. You can see the landing pad through the window at my feet.
Breath taking is an understatement. To top it off I got the ride shot gun and this is my view on the flight. There was a haze everywhere from the forest fires in BC at the time. Many km from BC and the haze was very thick.
Cheers,
Coach G
Haze in the air from the Forest Fires in BC.
4 Days later after a steady rain the haze is gone.
Visit with the Legendary – Bob Gajda – Chicago
Hi All,
What am amazing trip!!! I had the privilege of sharing some time with Fitness and training legend Bob Gajda. In his prime he defeated someone by the name of Arnold in a Mr. Universe contest. Many college and professional athletes in the Chicago area seek out Bob to get healthy when no one else can help. He has worked with a true hall of fame list of athletes!!
Bob welcomed me like an old friend and he and his staff were amazing hosts for my visits. All of them were eager to share what they do at their facilities.
My favourite demo of the day was the bungee cord jumping platform. Bob showed me how it worked and then set me up to try it. After 3 or 4 different exercises to get my muscles activated, I took the belt off and then tried a jump on my own. I was totally shocked as I went up in the air and hung there like I had not done in 10 years. It reminded me of my basketball days in high school and university when dunking was done for fun. It felt so amazing to get that high again and I thank Bob for the “Fountain of Youth” experience.
I am just as excited to be able to share the jumping apparatus with all of the students that I teach and athletes that I train back in Kitchener/Waterloo.
Bob, thank you so much for your kindness and generosity that you demonstrated to me on my visits to your facilities. Your clients are very fortunate to be able to work with you.
Also, thanks to Susie, John, Tim and the entire staff for making my visits so memorable.
Cheers,
Coach G
