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Before we jump in here head first, let’s start by saying that the Turkish Get-Up (TGU) is a highly intricate, multifaceted exercise that demands mastery and ownership of each specific position from start to finish. It’s crucial to understand the fact that this is a highly-skilled movement that requires patience, effort and consistency over time.
The purpose of this post is to bring to light a simple progression format to follow, in order to slowly and progressively build up your TGU in a responsible way.
I doubt that we could all ever come to an agreement on ‘where’ the TGU belongs in a training program (i.e., warm-up, beginning of training, end of training, recovery, etc.). However, I am positive that we could all agree that it DEFINITELY belongs somewhere in training.
The TGU is important due to the fact that it helps to challenge the entire body (hips, trunk & shoulders) in terms of strength, motor control, balance, stability, coordination and timing/sequencing, which ultimately helps to increase body control and awareness in space. Basically, TGU for the win.
It's important to remember that the weight isn’t important right now; technique and mastery of each position reigns supreme. It’s important to own each movement and transition, in addition to breathing properly and controlling the tempo. Be sure to always hold the ‘bell as shown in the image before you watch the video.
Here is a complete list of progressions:
1. KB TGU to Elbow
2. KB TGU to Hand
3. KB TGU to Tripod
4. KB TGU to Half Kneel
5. KB TGU (Full)
Looking for more training tips to master your movements? Check us out for in-person trainingt our state-of-the-art facility in Salem, MA or look into our online training program.
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Matthew Ibrahim is the Co-Owner & Lead Performance Coach of TD Athletes Edge. He has been an invited guest speaker nationally in over 10 U.S. states, which was highlighted by his presentations at Google Headquarters and Stanford University, in addition to guest speaking internationally in Milan, Italy. His work has been featured in Men’s Fitness, STACK Media and The PTDC. Currently, he is completing his masters degree at Rocky Mountain University with a direct track into their PhD program. He is a big fan of interacting on Instagram and regularly posts about training, performance and recovery.
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Matthew Ibrahim is the Co-Owner, Director of Strength & Conditioning and Internship Coordinator at TD Athletes Edge in Salem, MA. Throughout his career, Matthew has been an invited guest speaker nationally in over 10 U.S. states, which was highlighted by his presentations at Google Headquarters, Stanford University, Equinox, Lululemon and Mike Boyle Strength & Conditioning, in addition to guest speaking internationally in Milan, Italy. He has also been an invited guest speaker by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) at the regional conference level and at the state clinic level. His professional work has been featured in some of the world’s largest publications, such as Men's Health, Men’s Fitness and STACK Media. Currently, he is a PhD student at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in the Human and Sport Performance program. Matthew also serves as an Adjunct Professor of Exercise Science at Endicott College and an Adjunct Professor of Exercise Science at Maryville University.