Strength, as you already know, is the ability to exert force on physical objects.

Skill is the learned ability to carry out a task within a definable framework of time and energy.

Neither of these physical characteristics can be developed through methods that employ the constant variation of stress

stimulus because neither strength nor skill can develop under infrequent exposure to the stresses that cause the adaptation.

Like learning to play the piano, their acquisition must be accumulated in a logical, methodical manner.

Not all exercise systems are equally proficient at developing strength and skill.

As it turns out, strength training with barbells, combined with practice of the sports sports skill is the best way to develop both.

Now that seems reasonable enough, right? You get both stronger and better at your sport over time

by training for strength and practicing your sports skill. So why are the two biggest players in the fitness industry today telling you otherwise?

Strength, the basis of physical interaction.

Strength is simply the production of force with your muscles.

Producing force is the way we interact with the environment.

Anything you move with your hands and feet,

from climbing the stairs to picking up the groceries,

involves the application of force.

It is the most important physical attribute we possess.

You may have the healthiest heart and lungs on the planet,

but if you're not strong enough to get up out of the chair without help, your daily activities

are less pleasant and less efficient than they could be. There is only one kind of strength.

The kind your contracting muscles generate to move your skeleton,

which is a system of levers that multiplies the force your muscles produce when they get shorter,

as they contract.

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