Tempo Tom Nikkola

What is the purpose of tempo in your training?

In terms of your training, I believe tempo is one of the most important concepts you need to wrap your head around. Tempo is the speed with which you move the bar, dumbbells, plates, or your body during a repetition. Tempo: Tempo measures the speed of your repetition in four parts: … Keep reading…

Tom Nikkola Coach's Notes Graphic

Don’t Lose Muscle

I have a number of guidelines for VIGOR Training, but just one rule: Don’t Lose Muscle! Muscle loss contributes to: insulin resistance and diabetes loss of strength reduced metabolic rate flabby arms and squishy legs loss of joint integrity Research shows that as you age, a lack of lean mass … Keep reading…

VIGOR Training ACFT Training Proram | Tom Nikkola

Free ACFT Plan for the Army Combat Fitness Test

Are you looking to crush the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) with confidence? Look no further! This comprehensive, free 12-week ACFT program provides an easy-to-follow roadmap designed to help you achieve your best performance. Whether you’re a seasoned soldier or a beginner, our Free ACFT Training Program has you covered. … Keep reading…

Why Corporate Wellness Programs Don't Work

Why Corporate Wellness Programs Don’t Work

$8 billion. That’s how much is spent on corporate wellness programs each year in the United States. Sadly, it seems that enormous amount of money doesn’t actually improve employee wellness. And it doesn’t save companies money either. Most of the time, when businesses add an extra layer of expense, they … Keep reading…

The McLeans - Jeremiah Success Story - Pink Background

Jeremiah McLean’s Success Story

I’ve gone from being morbidly obese and out of shape to being the lightest I’ve been in 20 years and the strongest I’ve ever been. My family is so happy and proud of me, which also makes me feel great. I really am thriving and living my best life! Jeremiah … Keep reading…

Blood Flow Restriction Training | Tom Nikkola

Blood Flow Restriction Training: What Is It? How Does It Work?

Blood flow restriction training (BFR), also known as occlusion training or KAATSU, might sound like some sort of hardcore training method reserved only for meatheads and serious athletes, but that’s hardly the case. BFR could be the perfect addition to a training plan for weekend warriors, a way to help … Keep reading…

Cardiac Cachexia Heart Failure Tom Nikkola

Cardiac Cachexia: How to Stop the Muscle Loss

You know you’re not in the best of health. After all, you’ve had your share of heart-related issues. However, you’re still getting around and able to do most of the activities you did in the past. You’re just moving a little slower. But, you have noticed your shoulders are starting … Keep reading…

Torn Bicep Tendon Recovery Tom Nikkola

Torn Bicep Tendon? How To Speed Up Recovery After Surgery

Cinderella wasn’t referring to a torn bicep when they sang the 80’s rock ballad, “Don’t Know What You’ve Got ‘Til It’s Gone,” but that song title is #truth when it comes to a ruptured biceps tendon. You don’t give much thought to how valuable your bicep is in everyday movement … Keep reading…

5 Common Weight Training Mistakes You Might Be Making | Tom Nikkola

5 Common Weight Training Mistakes You Might Be Making

Weight training has a way of mimicking life, which is why the lessons learned in VIGOR Training are as practical outside the gym as they are inside it. And just like life, the shortcuts or easy options rarely produce long-lasting results. The following are the five most common mistakes people … Keep reading…

5 Success Traits of Weight Training | Tom Nikkola

5 Success Traits You Develop Through Weight Training

In virtually every aspect of life, a small percentage of people thrive, most get by, and some barely survive. Rarely, is the difference a result of environment or luck. Instead, the difference is in the mindset of those who thrive and those who do not. For example, weight loss for … Keep reading…