Day 1 with shovelglove! Just getting started

[AUlderyan]

I stumbled on shovelglove last night about 3 am, and went out and got myself a new 10lbs sledge today - 30 bucks at Lowes! ...But it's badass!

Started practicing some movements today. I already feel it in my traps after just a few minutes. I haven't wrapped the head yet, it seems more masculine to me to leave it as a sledgehammer, but I may change my mind after I whack someone or something.

I am think I should decorate my sledge with cool stickers / decals, or maybe paint it so it looks cool, although as/is it looks pretty cool. BLack fibreglass handle, black head.

I started doing some standard moves like you would do with a dumbell - overhead presses, lateral side raises for the delts, etc. Is that wrong? I feel naughty when I do it

One other thing. It seems from the videos that if you allow the SG to swing too much, especially in the circular movements, that you are making it easier to start the next rep. Like in the standard shovel movement, when you put it towards the ground, you should pause, and then pull hard to bring it back (to dump the dirt) Seems to me to be a better, more strict workout - albeit slower.

Thanks everyone. I'm proud to join your ranks.

-Ryan

[ultimas]

I'm jealous of your kewl sledgehammer. Mine has a rusted head and a years-old wooden handle - maybe you'd call it "retro cool". Black on black has it beat, though.

I am also a "naked" shugger - no fluffy sweaters for me.

I find that I get a better all over workout by doing imitative movements that involve more than just a target muscle. Chopping wood is my favorite, because it kicks my butt!

You're spot on about the circular movements requiring less effort to start the next rep. I'd try it both ways and see which one gives you the better workout.

[reinhard]

Welcome, AUlderyan.

There's no question that momentum makes some of the moves easier. But there's also something very satisfying about the rhythm of it, of one swing merging into the next. Since I'm happy with the physical results I've gotten, I'm not tempted to give up my satisfying momentum for potentially greater exercise efficiency. But everyone has their own personal priorities, so by all means, ditch the momentum if that trade-off isn't worth it for you.

Naked shugging is well and good until you "graze" your shin or drop the hammer on the floor -- so be careful! Also, shovelglove represents a delicate balance between the macho yang of the sledge and the feminine yin of the fluffy sweater. While you may not value your shins or your floor, have some consideration for the fundamental equilibrium of the universe!

Reinhard