• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Home
  • Contributors
  • Resources
    • Q&A with Paul “Coach” Wade
  • Workshops
  • Products
  • Forums
  • Articles
  • Blogs
    • RKC Blog
    • Strong Medicine Blog
  • Archives

PCC Blog

Progressive Calisthenics - The Official Blog for the PCC Community

Danny Kavadlo

What Do I Know?

May 24, 2016 By Danny Kavadlo 48 Comments

Danny Kavadlo LeadPhoto Dunce Hat

What do any of us know?

I, for example, am nothing more than a product of my own reason and common sense. I pair perception with experience. I observe, report and conclude, all the while, trying my hardest to do the best I can within my capacities.

But do I actually know anything?

Given my many limitations, I get asked a great number of questions. Don’t get me wrong: I am grateful for each one I receive and I certainly do not wish to appear otherwise. I consider it an honor that any of you value my opinion enough to have me weigh in on your training, diet or life, and I thank you for the opportunity. But the truth is that I can’t possibly know all the answers to every query that anybody may have. I do my best. But sometimes my lack of firsthand experience with a given situation holds me back.

For example:

2QuestionA

There is no one-size-fits-all resolution here. A beginner and advanced practitioner will have wildly different rest periods. It depends how long and frequently this person has been training, what their current physical condition is, genetics, outside habits, environment and more.

Still, I am glad the person in the above scenario had a specific question. Sometimes, they’re not quite as thought out:

3QuestionB

Um… ok. Sure. Get back to me…

I live by trial and error. I’m no different than you. In fact, you shouldn’t instantly look to me until you’ve made some important personal discovery on your own. That’s not to say that I cannot be of service. Of course I can, but I encourage you to do some soul searching first. Know thyself, friends. There is no experience like firsthand experience. Don’t look at me. Look at you. While some think I’m a guru, others are not so kind. The truth is, I’m somewhere in between.

Great Book Review of Danny Kavadlo's Strength Rules

5Douche Guru or douche? The truth is, I’m somewhere in between.

Not only do I accept these natural differences in people’s opinions, I embrace them. I am an advocate of free thought and individual will in all their forms. I’m grateful when my beliefs evoke a passionate resonance in anybody in whatever capacity they’re capable of. Some feel that my words are inspirational; others are less kind.

6Inspiration

7LoserAnd still, some folks would prefer if I just went away. Well I’m not.

I’m not going away.
I’m not going away.

How about this fun comment on a recent Danny’s Dos and Don’ts article:

9DONT

That’s cool. Look, there are a lot of people out there. The natural constraints of my knowledge and intellect may not provide what you seek. Perhaps I can’t give you what you need.

Or can I…?

We all have opinions. That’s what makes life beautiful—the transparent fact that it beckons to be lived. You see, progressive calisthenics (or bodyweight training, street workout, whatever you want to call it—I don’t get bogged down on semantics) embodies an experiential component more than it demands wrote text. In a way, our very training ties into not knowing anything. We dispel dogma. We celebrate improvisation. We choose movement over academia. These are the attributes that comprise excellence in our realm.

Every truth-seeking individual on this planet will undoubtedly go through changes. Things we know (and things we thought we knew) can morph over time. This is how we evolve. Therefore I urge you to experiment, to reason and to go with your senses. Trust your intuition but keep an open mind. Learn from what’s around you every day. After all, the purest form of science is observation. Remain nonpartisan and objective, particularly when it comes to matters of the self.

I don’t know anything. You decide for you.

You have the power!
You have the power!

Keep the dream alive,

-DK

Filed Under: Motivation and Goals, Progressive Calisthenics Tagged With: calisthenics, Danny Kavadlo, Leadership, motivation, progressive calisthenics, training philosophy

Progressive Calisthenics In The City Of Angels

May 10, 2016 By Danny Kavadlo 14 Comments

LA PCC Support Press
I’m picking up good vibrations.

After two immensely successful events in Encinitas and Mountain View, CA last year, the Progressive Calisthenics Certification made its return to the Golden State this past weekend. This time, manifest destiny brought us to the county of Los Angeles. I’ve been California dreaming of this for a long time!

I wish they all could be California girls.
I wish they all could be California girls.

The word has spread far and wide, as Paul “Coach” Wade’s infamous masterpiece (and Dragon Door’s #1 all-time best selling title) Convict Conditioning has established quite a following on the Pacific coast. It’s no surprise. The systematic simplicity and results-driven program has made an indelible mark on the entire fitness community.

Convict Conditioning meets LAPD. Can’t we all just get along?
Convict Conditioning meets LAPD. Can’t we all just get along?

Learning to train with minimal equipment and no external resistance whatsoever continues to inspire the masses from city coast to coast, and all over the world, to get in the best shape of their lives using nothing but their own bodies, the environment around them and an iron will! Folks came from far and wide to take part. The team of calisthenics avengers who assembled for this epic event was indeed a force to be reckoned with. Human flags flew, push-ups reigned supreme, levers soared in the sky and bridges closed gaps.

This man came all the way from Lebanon and gave ‘em L!
This man came all the way from Lebanon and gave ‘em L!

One of the greatest components of the Progressive Calisthenics Certification is the people who attend. Whenever you get a team of calisthenics fanatics together, you can always expect inspiration, motivation and participation. It was a privilege for me to be a part of such a special group of athletes and instructors.

World-class coaching at PCC.
World-class coaching at PCC.

As always, emotions ran high at during the Century Test, so-called because it demands 100 perfect reps of the basic calisthenics staples: squats, push-ups, hanging knee raises and pull-ups. This is the when the attendees put it all on the line to prove their mettle! But the truth is that it’s not about the numbers; it’s about the experience. And the experience we beheld together was miraculous.

Century testing. Beards optional.
Century testing. Beards optional.

I’d like to offer my personal congratulations to all the newly certified PCC instructors, as well as my encouragement to get out there, teach, train and spread the word. Remember, the first rule of PCC is, You DO talk about PCC!

As we walk away from an incredible weekend, we can only speculate what the future of PCC holds. Will we see YOU at a PCC certification? With upcoming workshops scheduled in New York City, Holland, Australia and Germany, I certainly hope so. See you there!

Keep the dream alive,
-DK

LA PCC Group Photo

****

Danny Kavadlo is one of the world’s foremost authorities on calisthenics, nutrition and personal training. He is the author of the Dragon Door titles Strength Rules, Diamond-Cut Abs and Everybody Needs Training. Danny is known for his minimalist philosophy, simple approach and motivational talents.

A true in-person experience, Danny is a Master Instructor for Dragon Door’s Progressive Calisthenics Certification. He has been featured in the NY Times, TRAIN, Men’s Fitness and is a regular contributor to Bodybuilding.com. Learn more about Danny at www.DannyTheTrainer.com

Filed Under: Progressive Calisthenics, Workshop Experiences Tagged With: Danny Kavadlo, LA PCC, Los Angeles, PCC, workshop experience

London Calling

April 12, 2016 By Danny Kavadlo 10 Comments

Danny Kavadlo demonstrates the clutch flag at the PCC London 2016

After over thirty events in dozens of cities, spanning multiple countries and four continents, the Progressive Calisthenics Certification keeps getting better and better. More personal records, more lifelong friendships and more experiences that we’ll never forget.

Every time we do another PCC workshop, I go in with big dreams, and still I find my fitness forecast is exceeded. That’s right, friends: my sky-high expectations are smashed every time. How, you ask?

Because of you.

PCC London Elbow Lever. What makes an event great? YOU!
What makes an event great? YOU!

When you guys and gals make the commitment to attend PCC, it’s your energy, positivity and strength that make it incredible. So when the team and I found ourselves in the historic city of London, England and met the PCC candidates this past weekend, we knew that together we’d make history.

PCC "London Bridge"
Historic London Bridge.

Calisthenics practitioners from over five countries showed up to train and learn from us, as well as each other. It was a fantastic group of trainers, martial artists, acrobats and fitness aficionados from all walks of life. Beyond the sheer physical prowess, the love, passion and commitment of this group were simply brilliant. Nothing stood in the way of progress. In fact, one attendee came all the way from Singapore and did the entire PCC workshop with a broken foot! (For the record, he broke his foot running a triathlon… and still won!) No excuses!

PCC London Headstand
No excuses!

Our venue, the Commando Temple, was hands down one of the greatest facilities I’ve ever seen in the world. Beyond being a playground for calisthenics commanders, it was also a museum of strongman education, and a tribute to all forms of strength in pop culture. The members of the staff were not only amazing hosts, but also dedicated bodyweight beasts in their own right.

Double front lever performed by PCC instructors Fitsz Dubova and Coung Hua from the Commando Temple.
Double front lever performed by PCC instructors Fitsz Dubova and Coung Hua from the Commando Temple.

As always, it was a privilege to witness astonishing teamwork all weekend long. Hand in hand, this new crop of PCC’s guided each other through the exercises and lifted each other up, never putting one another down.

What’s gonna work? Teamwork!
What’s gonna work? Teamwork!

The one-on-one instruction and the power of the group is something that must be experienced to be believed. We entered the room as strangers, but left as family. There is no substitute for an in-person experience.

Congratulations to all the newly certified PCC instructors. It was truly a weekend I’ll never forget. We are all grateful for the experience.

Keep The Dream Alive,
-DK

PCC London 2016 Group Photo

****

Danny Kavadlo is one of the world’s foremost authorities on calisthenics, nutrition and personal training. He is the author of the Dragon Door titles Strength Rules, Diamond-Cut Abs and Everybody Needs Training. Danny is known for his minimalist philosophy, simple approach and motivational talents.

A true in-person experience, Danny is a Master Instructor for Dragon Door’s Progressive Calisthenics Certification. He has been featured in the NY Times, TRAIN, Men’s Fitness and is a regular contributor to Bodybuilding.com. Learn more about Danny at www.DannyTheTrainer.com

Filed Under: Progressive Calisthenics, Workshop Experiences Tagged With: calisthenics workshop, Danny Kavadlo, England PCC, London PCC, UK PCC, workshop, workshop experience

Strength Rules Is Here

November 24, 2015 By Danny Kavadlo 24 Comments

Danny Kavadlo Strength Rules Book Cover

First Things First

I am the luckiest guy who ever lived. When my last Dragon Door title, Diamond-Cut Abs was released one year ago, it was extremely well received. In fact, it became a #1 bestseller!

Diamond Cut Abs Bestseller

I consider it a tremendous honor that my words, programs and experiences resonated with so many. I am grateful that in the months that followed, I received a great deal of correspondence about Danny-style abdominal training. But, interestingly enough, for as many abs-related questions and comments as I received, there were even more inquiries about Danny-style strength training as it relates to the entire body. People loved the abs, but they wanted more! In fact, I had never authored a book about full-body strength training… until now!

I knew I had something unique to bring to the table and here it is… Strength Rules.

Full Disclosure

Just prior to the writing of Strength Rules, my life went through some unprecedented and unexpected changes. Things that I thought would last forever fell apart. On New Year’s Day 2015, a ten-year relationship with the woman I thought I would spend the rest of my life with ended. Fast.

Things change. I’ve never needed strength more than I have in the past year. I went from being a family man to a full time single dad. I had to be strong for myself, but even more so, for my son. It was at this time when I realized that a book about full body physical strength simply would not be enough…. My next work would have to be about mental strength, spiritual awareness and emotional fortitude as well.

Danny Kavadlo Truth

So There You Have It

Strength Rules is my most personal work to date. The project is about perseverance, endurance and overcoming obstacles. It contains over seventy-five bodyweight exercises, including Plyo-Muscle-Ups deconstructed like you’ve never seen before, not to mention my in depth take on One-Arm Push-Ups. This book is about working hard and mindful practice–making the time to train, prioritizing what matters most and not taking “No” for an answer. We cover living a healthy life, harvesting physical prowess and fostering a positive mental attitude. Strength Rules focuses on walking face-first through the fire, and coming out stronger for it. Not in spite of it, but because of it!

Danny Kavadlo Muscle-Up

Everything is fair game in these pages and I pull no punches. Be prepared not only for my unconventional take on nutrition, but also on the supplement businesses, equipment manufacturers and even the medical industry!

Danny Doc

Further, Strength Rules contains workouts, progressions, supplemental stretches and some amazing (and far out) images. It even has the long awaited return of Danny’s Dos and Don’ts! I can’t wait for you to check it out!

But Don’t Take My Word For It

In the words of Olympian, scholar and author Dan John (from the foreword):

“This book is about true strength. The old kind of strength where heroes were people, like Beowulf and Ullysses, who protected the community first. This book is about empowering yourself and others. Strength Rules by Danny Kavadlo is so good you can’t ignore it.”

Danny And Wilson
Strong to the finish.

****

Danny Kavadlo is one of the world’s foremost authorities on calisthenics, nutrition and personal training. He is the author of the Dragon Door titles Strength Rules, Diamond-Cut Abs and Everybody Needs Training. Danny is known for his minimalist philosophy, simple approach and motivational talents.

A true in-person experience, Danny is a Master Instructor for Dragon Door’s Progressive Calisthenics Certification. He has been featured in the NY Times, TRAIN, Men’s Fitness and is a regular contributor to Bodybuilding.com. Learn more about Danny at www.DannyTheTrainer.com

Filed Under: Progressive Calisthenics Tagged With: calisthenic strength training, calisthenics, calisthenics strength, Danny Kavadlo, Danny's new bestseller, nutrition, Strength Rules, strength training

PCC Chicago: My Kinda Town

September 22, 2015 By Danny Kavadlo 6 Comments

PCC Chicago 2015 Dragon Flag

My hands are sore from clapping so hard. This isn’t the first time this has happened. The skin is swollen. The bones ache. My palms are red.

Let me backtrack a little… My brother Al Kavadlo and I have the best job out of anyone I know. We get to travel and meet calisthenics aficionados from all over the globe. We spend three days teaching the moves, spreading the word, training intensely and basking in the love. We get to personally witness and be a part of so many amazing feats of strength and groundbreaking achievements that the outpouring of raw, unbridled joy, coupled with passionate pride and complete confidence almost takes on a physical manifestation of its own. It practically busts down the walls and flows all over the street! We pull-up, we flag, we applaud, we get emotional.

And yes… we clap!

PCC Chicago Brittany Flag

The Progressive Calisthenics Certification’s debut this past weekend in the Windy City of Chicago was no exception. In fact, it was a perfect example of exactly what I’m talking about. Bodyweight beasts from all over these great States were represented… and they delivered the goods!

PCC Chicago 2015 Cody Muscle Up

You see, when attendees and instructors work together face-to-face, we bring out the best in one another. Something magical happens. We train hard and inspire. We stand tall (even if it’s on our hands!)

PCC Chicago 2015 Al Kavadlo and Cassia Handstand

PR’s included Muscle-Ups, One-Arm Push-Ups, Stand-To-Stand Bridges, Back Levers and more. But beyond that, the showing of solidarity is what really stole the show. The PCC community was the most powerful form of strength in the room. The calisthenics brother- and sister-hood is the mightiest force in the universe.

PCC Chicago Namon and Katie Training 5

It is of note that this was a particularly powerful group of females, including two women who performed their very first muscle-ups. Can I get a hell yeah? Bodyweight strength training is for everybody!

PCC Chicago Ladies 2015

PCC, Chi-Town had to be experienced to be believed. In fact, that’s’ what makes the Progressive Calisthenics Certification so special: It is an in person experience. You can read about it or look at it. You can even begin to get a feel for it. But you can’t touch it or taste it until you live it! I’m looking forward to seeing YOU at the next certification.

Keep the dream alive, my friends!

-DK

PCC Chicago Group Photo

***

Danny Kavadlo is one of the world’s foremost authorities on calisthenics, nutrition and personal training. He is the author of the Dragon Door titles Diamond-Cut Abs and Everybody Needs Training. Danny is known for his minimalist philosophy, simple approach and motivational talents.

A true in-person experience, Danny is a Master Instructor for Dragon Door’s Progressive Calisthenics Certification. He has been featured in the NY Times, TRAIN, Men’s Fitness and is a regular contributor to Bodybuilding.com. Learn more about Danny at www.DannyTheTrainer.com

Filed Under: Workshop Experiences Tagged With: bodyweight certification, calisthenics instructor training, Chicago, Danny Kavadlo, PCC, PCC Workshop, Progressive Calisthenics Certification, workshop

Virginia is for Calisthenics Lovers

August 4, 2015 By Danny Kavadlo 11 Comments

Danny Kavadlo Double Flag Virginia PCC

I’m a lover. I love life. I love music. I love food. I love intensity…

And I love calisthenics!

Four days ago, my brother and PCC Lead Instructor Al Kavadlo and I embarked on a journey, leaving our homes in New York City. We cruised down the New Jersey Turnpike and made our way Southbound through the Harbor Tunnel Throughway, down the Capital Beltway. We were bound for Alexandria, Virginia to instruct the city’s historic second Progressive Calisthenics Certification. Good times!

I love traveling.
I love traveling.

As is always the case at PCC, fitness trainers, martial artists and calisthenics enthusiasts from many backgrounds and walks of life made the voyage to both test their mettle and share the love at this amazing workshop.

In fact, one enthusiast traveled over 12,000 kilometers to be part of this miraculous weekend! It was worth the trip. Not only did he achieve his first ever one-arm pull-up (a Master Step from Convict Conditioning) and full press flag, Kareem Naseeb brought some new moves to the table, including this “no hands” bar hang.

I love witnessing new feats of strength.
I love witnessing new feats of strength.

Other PR’s included a first ever stand-to-stand bridge (another Master Step!), eleven clutch flags, numerous L-sits, press flags and one-arm push-ups! Sometimes calisthenics practitioners who have never attended PCC cannot understand how so many earth-shattering firsts can possibly be achieved in one single weekend, what with so many tutorials, training manuals and online resources out there. Well, allow me to break it down for you: There is no substitute for an in person experience. The caliber of the one-on-one coaching, the virtue of observation and the voice of experience simply cannot be duplicated by anything you’ll find in a book or online.

I love world class coaching!
I love world class coaching!

And don’t get me started on the power, presence and solidarity of the group! Even beyond the training itself, the adrenaline and energy of so many of us joining forces simply cannot be replicated. When we’re all together, something magical happens!

I love the energy!
I love the energy!

There is something to be said about the purity of calisthenics. We are not bogged down by fault-finding dogma, hypercritical conventions or gratuitous fitness equipment. We use our bodies, our experiences and our ascertainment of the world around us. In fact, one of the most wondrous characteristics of bodyweight strength training is the creativity involved. We turn whatever environment we’re in into our own personal training space. Whether that means using a scaffold, a bench, or just the floor beneath us as workout gear, we do it! The calisthenics athlete is original, empowered, honest and true. We use what we got … even each other!

I love the freedom to improvise.
I love the freedom to improvise.

As is always the case at PCC, when you put so many like-minded individuals together under one roof, the bonds that are formed transcend time. Even though the life-changing weekend comes to a close, the friendships last forever. In fact, that’s one of my favorite things about PCC: the connections–both personal and professional–that we get to establish. It blows my mind each and every time I get to relate to so many with whom I have so much in common. We are the freaks and geeks of fitness! Are you one of us?

I love making new friends!
I love making new friends!

We have upcoming Progressive Calisthenics Certifications in Holland, California, Guatemala and Norway! I hope to see you there.

Keep the dream alive!

-DK

 

***

Danny Kavadlo is one of the world’s foremost authorities on calisthenics, nutrition and personal training. He is the author of the Dragon Door titles Diamond-Cut Abs and Everybody Needs Training. Danny is known for his minimalist philosophy, simple approach and motivational talents.

A true in-person experience, Danny is a Master Instructor for Dragon Door’s Progressive Calisthenics Certification. He has been featured in the NY Times, TRAIN, Men’s Fitness and is a regular contributor to Bodybuilding.com. Learn more about Danny at www.DannyTheTrainer.com

Filed Under: Workshop Experiences Tagged With: Danny Kavadlo, PCC Workshop, Progressive Calisthenics Certification Workshop, Virginia PCC

Don’t Mess With Texas

May 19, 2015 By Danny Kavadlo 16 Comments

Danny Kavadlo With Awesome Hat

My brother Al Kavadlo and I rode into town this past Friday rarin’ to go, looking forward to bringing Progressive Calisthenics to the Lone Star State for the very first time. The bodyweight beasts we encountered were obviously just as excited as we were, judging from the incredible level of enthusiasm, energy and positivity!

Remember the Al-amo
Remember the Al-amo

Day One

I love the first day of the Progressive Calisthenics Certification. We enter the room as strangers but leave as family. From one-arm push-ups to full press flags (even a first-time one-arm pull-up!), many PR’s were established, as many bonds were made. The calisthenics wrecking crew muscled up to the challenge and then some.

More human flags than you can shake a stick at!
More human flags than you can shake a stick at!

Day Two

The roadhouse thunder raged on during Day Two. Squats, lunges and pistols were followed by back bridges, gecko bridges and even stand-to-stands! We got down on the ground for the mid-section holds and back up on bar for back and front lever progressions. The feats of strength, balance and flexibility were rivaled only by the solidarity and encouragement. This group of Texas tornadoes delivered the goods!

 

The Sharp Dressed Men of PCC.
The Sharp Dressed Men of PCC.
Strong gals train calisthenics!
Strong gals train calisthenics!

Day Three

The last day of PCC begins with hand balancing and ends with the Century Test. But the true balancing act is juggling the emotional highs of such a special experience with the bittersweet feelings of leaving our new-found calisthenics brothers and sisters. The real test lies in the days to come: now that this world-class experience comes to an end, how do we maintain the strength, the technique and the bond we all shared with one another?

PCC Texas Partner Pistols

Sure ‘nuff, even though the weekend is now over, our journey is just beginning. Thanks to the PCC blog, Dragon Door’s extensive library and Dragon Door’s upcoming Health & Strength Conference, the PCC community will continue to grow. Remember, the first rule of PCC is you do talk about PCC, so keep on spreading the word!

We’re fixin’ to head back, y’all hear?

PCC Dallas Texas 2015 Group Photo

 

The posse’s getting bigger,

-DK

 

***

Danny Kavadlo is one of the world’s foremost authorities on calisthenics, nutrition and personal training. He is the author of the Dragon Door titles Diamond-Cut Abs and Everybody Needs Training. Danny is known for his minimalist philosophy, simple approach and motivational talents.

A true in-person experience, Danny is a Master Instructor for Dragon Door’s Progressive Calisthenics Certification. He has been featured in the NY Times, TRAIN, Men’s Fitness and is a regular contributor to Bodybuilding.com. Learn more about Danny at www.DannyTheTrainer.com

Filed Under: Workshop Experiences Tagged With: Danny Kavadlo, PCC, PCC Workshop, Progressive Calisthenics Certification Workshop, Rockwall Texas, Texas, workshop experience

PCC Germany: Rock You Like A Hurricane

April 21, 2015 By Danny Kavadlo 17 Comments

Danny At PCC Germany 2015

Here I am. Munich’s second Progressive Calisthenics Certification workshop. It seems like only moments ago, my brother and PCC Lead Instructor Al Kavadlo and I traveled to KRABA, one of the most spectacular training facilities in the world, to deliver Germany’s first ever PCC. Well, history repeats itself and our second event in “The Fatherland” proved to be just as awe-inspiring as the first.

Bodyweight enthusiasts, professional trainers, students of movement and teachers of strength came together to change the world… one pull-up at a time! PCC is never your typical certification. Our group was hungry and focused, eager yet humble. Not to mention passionate. My kinda people!

PCC Germany 2015 Group Photo

This crew came from far and wide. Bodyweight beasts from nine countries in all were represented: In addition to Deutschland and the United States, those in attendance hailed from Switzerland, Austria, Spain, France and Croatia. There were even participants who traveled from Egypt and Abu Dhabi! This event may have been the greatest calisthenics cultural mecca I’ve ever personally witnessed—the experience of a lifetime! Highlights included over 25% of PCC attendees executing a muscle-up for the first time!

Muscle Up PR at Germany PCC

If you think that’s amazing, then how about this? 24 out of 26 achieved their first clutch flag; we even had some first press flags! And that was just Day One! The following days saw record numbers of L-sits, dragon flags and pistol squats. There were even a few gecko bridges in the mix!

Gecko Bridge Germany PCC

History was made and personal bests were shattered again and again –but the solidarity amongst us was the most amazing thing of all.

There’s no one like the PCC candidate. It’s a very special person to forgo the tired, beaten path of modern, conventional fitness and aspire to inspire (and perspire) in the wild bodyweight kingdom. No equipment ­– just us! It’s time to accept that this new breed of fitness professionals is here to stay. The winds of change, if you will.

Scorpion At Germany PCC

Al and I are keeping busy. PCC makes its debut in Italy this weekend. May and June sees the PCC coming to Dallas, New York City and the then back to Europe for the UK’s first PCC. I can’t wait to see YOU there!

Keep the dream alive.

-DK

***

Danny Kavadlo is one of the world’s foremost authorities on calisthenics, nutrition and personal training. He is the author of the Dragon Door titles Diamond-Cut Abs and Everybody Needs Training. Danny is known for his minimalist philosophy, simple approach and motivational talents.

A true in-person experience, Danny is a Master Instructor for Dragon Door’s Progressive Calisthenics Certification. He has been featured in the NY Times, TRAIN, Men’s Fitness and is a regular contributor to Bodybuilding.com. Learn more about Danny at www.DannyTheTrainer.com

Filed Under: Workshop Experiences Tagged With: Danny Kavadlo, Germany, Munich, PCC, PCC Workshop, PR, Progressive Calisthenics Certification Workshop, workshop experience

Healing Powers

March 3, 2015 By Danny Kavadlo 56 Comments

Danny Kavadlo Wolvie

Wouldn’t it be great if we all had healing powers? Think about it. If the perils of injury were non-existent? If the chances of maiming, straining or spraining any particular body part were a work of fiction, best suited for the comic books? What if the words “pain” and “gain” were not so frequently associated?

Marvel at a universe where getting hurt is not a major concern.

Well here’s the thing, bub: It’s NOT a major concern. Not much of one anyway. Now before you start freaking out, try hearing me out. Yes I acknowledge that it is possible that one can get injured doing a pull-up (or lifting weights, running, jumping, or even walking down the street). But it’s also possible to get hurt while cleaning your garage, giving birth, or driving a car. You can even choke while eating an organic kale salad. Does that mean we shouldn’t do these things?

Despite what some say, I’m a true believer that the chances of getting injured if you work out are much lower than if you don’t work out. Makes sense, right?

We are constantly subjected to fear-mongering tactics perpetrated by the media, even (especially?) the fitness industry itself. That’s right, my people: Most of the commercial fitness industry does not actually want you to work out! That’s why there is equipment (abs machines for example) that’s built to isolate muscles that are not made to be isolated! Or why treadmills are designed to give the illusion of exertion (fat burning zone???) but not get you in shape.

Ab Machine treadmill
These machines are not built to get you in shape.

It’s also why gyms sign up new members every day but never get any more crowded week to week. They’d go out of business if all their members actually got results. Better to sign you up, feed you some bullshit and send you on your way. Thank you, DON’T come again.

The real deal is that people respond to fear. When it snows, the news tells you to go out and stock up on groceries and shovels or you’re gonna die an icy death. (Conversely when it’s hot out–and a slow news day–similar threats are made about the perils of heat.) For shame.

Danny Kavadlo Snowy Pull-up
I’m not dead yet.

Ultimately, it’s the individual’s choice what to accept, inspiration or fear. The truth is that it’s very unlikely you will inflict bodily harm while calisthenics training. A plane can crash, but flying is still the safest way to travel. I’ve even fallen off my bicycle, but I still ride it every day. It’s still good for me. Don’t hate. Appreciate.

Danny Kavadlo One Arm Pull Up
Don’t hate. Appreciate.

Sure, a day (or even a week) off can be a good thing. But you don’t necessarily have to plan for it or measure it with a slide rule. And you certainly don’t need to be afraid to work out intensely or frequently. Let your body, life and experience dictate. Simply put, if your legs are aching, then train your arms. Listen to your body. It’s wiser than you think.

We all need to recover at times; I’d never deny it. As far as healing goes, respect your level. Though I sometimes feel like I have an adamantium skeleton, I don’t. So when those moments arise when I need to back off, I do. No biggie. Common sense prevails yet again.

Danny Kavadlo hmm
Hmmm… Try some common sense.

In fact, I’ve been practicing calisthenics for over 25 years and I’ve never suffered more than a few nicks and dings (mostly from bumping my head on the pull-up bar or other such carelessness). Some tendonitis is the worst injury I’ve ever gotten, which is relatively minor on the grand scale.

And if we do get injured, no we don’t have supernatural healing powers, so pay attention to what you’re experiencing. Embrace every moment with care. Be aware of what’s around you. These practices are helpful in all aspects of life, not just fitness. Living in the present goes a long way, my friends. Every body needs training!

Keep the dream alive,

-DK

***

Danny Kavadlo is one of the world’s foremost authorities on calisthenics, nutrition and personal training. He is the author of the Dragon Door titles Diamond-Cut Abs and Everybody Needs Training. Danny is known for his minimalist philosophy, simple approach and motivational talents.

A true in-person experience, Danny is a Master Instructor for Dragon Door’s Progressive Calisthenics Certification. He has been featured in the NY Times, TRAIN, Men’s Fitness and is a regular contributor to Bodybuilding.com. Learn more about Danny at www.DannyTheTrainer.com

Filed Under: Motivation and Goals, Progressive Calisthenics Tagged With: awareness, calisthenics, common sense, Danny Kavadlo, in the present, injury prevention, progressive calisthenics, safe training

Happy Days At PCC Milwaukee

November 11, 2014 By Danny Kavadlo 25 Comments

Al and Danny Kavadlo in Milwaukee, WI

It’s no secret that since its inception just over one year ago, the Progressive Calisthenics Certification has grown and grown, gaining strength, momentum and community as the days go by. After all, the first rule of PCC is you DO talk about PCC; it’s good to see we’re all doing our jobs!

For our twelfth certification, we headed up North to Drench fitness in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, prepared to have a great workshop in a great city on a Great Lake. And that’s exactly what we did!

Alex Cordero Archer Pull up
You see ‘dem Packers? I mean, packed shoulders?

As is the case when so many bodyweight gladiators get together, something incredible happens. Anyone who’s ever partaken in a push-up contest or a pull-up jam knows exactly what I’m talking about. You see, when you put so much fire and passion together in one place, the room itself ignites in a celebration of energy, inspiration and motivation. It’s an incredible thing to behold.

The calisthenics killers of the Badger State proved their epic power, as personal bests were achieved by just about everybody. There’s nothing like the feeling of earning a one arm pushup, stand-to-stand bridge or human flag when you’ve never done it before. Like they say, you never forget your first!

Katie Petersen One-Arm Pushup
Pushing the limits at PCC

It’s with a heavy heart that we leave America’s heartland. It’s amazing how such a life-changing weekend can go by so quickly, but the friends we’ve made and the experiences we shared will transcend time. These days are ours. PCC is forever.

Congratulations to the new wave of freshly appointed Progressive Calisthenics Instructors. We are proud to have you represent!

Milwaukee_PCC_Group_Photo

The posse’s getting bigger,
-DK

***

Danny Kavadlo is one of the world’s foremost authorities on calisthenics, nutrition and personal training. He is the author of the Dragon Door titles Diamond-Cut Abs and Everybody Needs Training. Danny is known for his minimalist philosophy, simple approach and motivational talents.

A true in-person experience, Danny is a Master Instructor for Dragon Door’s Progressive Calisthenics Certification. He has been featured in the NY Times, TRAIN, Men’s Fitness and is a regular contributor to Bodybuilding.com. Learn more about Danny at www.DannyTheTrainer.com

Filed Under: Progressive Calisthenics, Workshop Experiences Tagged With: Danny Kavadlo, Milwaukee PCC Workshop, motivation, PCC, PCC Workshop, progressive calisthenics, workshop experience, Workshop recap

  • « Go to Previous Page
  • Page 1
  • Page 2
  • Page 3
  • Page 4
  • Page 5
  • Go to Next Page »

Primary Sidebar

Featured Products

previous arrow
GetStrongBookCover
ConvictConditioningBookCover
StreetWorkoutBookCover
ExplosiveCalisthenicsBookCover
StrengthRulesBookCover
next arrow

Categories

Progressive Calisthenics Certification Logo
Click here for more information or to register for the PCC workshop

Get Strong Workouts TriadXP App
Get Strong Workouts App

Recent Posts

  • Top 5 Reasons Why an In-Person Workshop is the Best Way to Supercharge Your Training
  • HYBRID STRENGTH TRAINING IS HERE!
  • My Calisthenics Journey to the PCC
  • The Handstand Press: Complete Control Through the Handstand
  • The Get Strong App is Here!

Dragon Door Publications

Dragon Door Publications

Recent Comments

  • bross dandon on The Case for Curved Handstands
  • Johnny Flewellen Jr. on Strength for Life
  • Dan Earthquake on The Pursuit of the Daily Minimum
  • Johnny Flewellen Jr. on The Pursuit of the Daily Minimum
  • Johnny Flewellen Jr. on Yoga, Calisthenics and the Journey of a Lifetime
FOLLOW US ON TWITTER!

Copyright © 2025

Dragon Door Publications / The author(s) and publisher of this material are not responsible in any manner whatsoever for any injury that may occur through following the instructions or opinions contained in this material. The activities, physical and otherwise, described herein for informational purposes only, may be too strenuous or dangerous for some people, and the reader(s) should consult a physician before engaging in them.