Here is another Simple Strength Snapshot interview. Martin Rooney, coach, author and creator of the fantastic Training For Warriors gives a window into his world, how he started out and what he’s up to now. Martin will be in Scotland in December this year to deliver his Training For Warriors Certification, Martin’s system of physical and mental training originally created for fighters more than 10 years ago.
You can get further information Here.
Martin, you are coming to Scotland in December to deliver the Training For Warriors Certification, what can our folks expect over the two days?
They can expect to feel the temperature raise a few degrees, because I will be presenting with so much energy. I will be giving everything I have and am really excited to finally get to Scotland.
How did your own training start, were you always interested in fitness and health or was there a particular event that set you on the path?
My mother was a physical education teacher and my father was a Olympic caliber rower. I was always interested in sport, training and nutrition as a result. Perhaps the real start was when my father bought me my first weight set. It was an old one and even though the plates were sand filled, I still got bit by the iron bug. Proud to say I haven’t missed more than 3 days of training in over 25 years.
Did you participate in any sports or activities growing up that had an influence or impact on how you train?
I played every sport growing up. Baseball and ice hockey were my favorites, but when I saw track and field in junior high, I had to try it. I ended up with a great javelin coach that inspired me and greatly influenced who I am today. I got a scholarship to college for the javelin throw and eventually made the US bobsled team from all the training.
How has your training changed and developed over the years? Are there key concepts that define what you now do?
I have continued to build my knowledge and the more I learn the less I realize I know. I have learned to move beyond exercises and more follow principles. The first book I ever wrote, Train to Win, is all about this philosophy. I will be covering this deeply in the TFW Certification.
Whilst there probably isn’t anything like an average week, can you tell me if you have a particular focus or approach to your current training?
Right now I am set on being one of the strongest 40 year olds in the world. I totaled 1330 RAW in the 3 lifts a few months ago and if I do that again, I will have succeeded on the world lists. I train heavy 4 days per week with weights and sprinting and rest for three. This formula has worked for me and kept me injury free.
There is a tremendous amount of confusion when it comes to diet. Some people seem to approach it as an extreme sport. Can you give me a snapshot of your own nutrition?
Mine is regimented. Breakfast: eggs, oats, fish oil, blueberries. Snacks are apples or a protein bar. Lunch and Dinner is some form of meat and vegetables. Post workout shakes are my desserts.
I don’t eat much with a label on it or anything ever that dares to say “light, diet, a good source of, fortified, fat free, sugar free or healthy.” I think it is actually pretty easy to eat well and have been the same weight for over 20 years.
Are there any particular supplements you consider essential for yourself?
Fish oil, protein, creatine, multivitamin. I make sure I eat well first though and remind myself that although labels and claims sound cool, they usually lead to expensive urine.
In my experience, recovery is the most overlooked aspect of the whole training process. What key strategies do you use when it comes to recovery?
Get at least 3 full days a week off. I like icing and contrast showers as well. Good nutrition and sleep are also critical and most people skip those two.
Who have been your biggest influences over the years?
My Father, Olympic Silver medalist and friend Todd Hays, Business Partner Bill Parisi, and all of my athletes.
Are there any books or resources you might recommend that have informed your approach to training or life in general?
James Allen’s As a Man Thinketh is a good place to start.
I’m a big fan of quotes. Do you have a personal favourite?
Theodore Roosevelt’s Man in the Arena
“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat”
Currently reading? – The Lost City of Z, In Defense of Food
Currently listening to? – Vivaldi “Four Seasons” (Yes, I like classical to read and write to)
Favourite Movie? – Just saw Thor and really enjoyed that.
