Nov 22 2016

As we inch just a little closer to my (this is Eric) favorite holiday I wanted to share a story with you about my childhood that has really shaped the person that I am today.

Ever since I can remember my dad has always had multiple jobs. He would work his regular job during the week and then on the weekends and week nights he would study/work towards another job/hobby just in case something happened with his regular 9-5. In the late 80’s my dad went to work for a tobacco company and he would end up retiring from this same company after 24 years of service. During his tenure with this company he survived multiple buyouts, mergers, and layoffs. Sometime around 1993-1995 his company was being bought out by a much larger company, RJ Reynolds or you probably remember Joe Camel. There was a specific night when all of the employees that were being laid off would get a phone call notifying them that their position had been terminated and what their next steps would be in the termination process. I vividly remember that night, all four of us sitting in the living room waiting on our “cordless” phone to ring. I remember asking my dad what we would do if he lost his job, he replied ” a working man will always have a job.” You see, my dad had a plan. He was almost done getting his real estate license that he was woking on on the nights that he was not taking me to ball games, taking us to Church, or just spending time with the family. He was completely dedicated and committed to the process (not the outcome) of being loyal to God, family, and to his company. The phone never rang that night and he would go on to have a great career at RJ Reynolds. My Dad has since moved on to do some really cool things in the business world (for the sake of privacy I will leave it at that). Everything that he touches seems to turn to gold and I can tell you he is a far better father than he is business man.

First and foremost I am thankful for the foundation of love that my family home was built on. My parents have been happily married for a long time and have taught me how to cultivate my own house of love. Second, I am thankful for the loyalty that my dad showed to my family and his commitment to the process. I now know how tough it is to be a husband, father, and a business owner. We are all products of our environment and the lessons that I learned at home will continue to shape how I run our business, how I parent, and how I love. Make sure you take the time this holiday season to reflect on the moments and people that have helped you get where you are. As always thank you for allowing me to be a part of your life and your fitness journey. Onward!

Eric J Bland

FITNESS:
A1. Arnold Press 4 x 8 @ 3010 (pronate hand at the top) (build) rest 60 sec
A2. Barbell Row 4 x 8 @ 31×3 no rest
+
EMOM for 16 min
1 min- Shuttle Run (parking lot)
2 min- 30 sec AB for max cals
3 min- KB FR WL 6 per side @ tough weight
4 min- Sled Push
**Be consistent with your times on the shuttle run
+
2 sets
10 Alt’ing DB Bicep Curls
10 Banded Tricep Extensions

COMPETITION:
A. Snatch Technique- 10 min
B. Snatch (Squat) @ 70-75% 2-3 EMOM for 8 min
+
4 sets
KB FR RFESS x 8 reps @ 31×1
BB BP x 8 reps @ 32×1
+
900 yd shuttle (parking lot) -9 changes of direction, start and finish on the end closest to the gym
rest 2 min x 3