StrengthAxis Program Design
Kettlebell - June, 2025
I’m of the mind that kettlebell chains and complexes encompass the raw power and strength of the hardstyle methodology within an intentional symphony of high-skilled sequencing. June’s programming calls on the original MEDKCR in a complex format.
Adding volume to MED Kettlebell Chains Reloaded delivers accessible power, strength, and conditioning. Though these sessions are simple, athletes should not under-estimate their difficulty. I look forward to witnessing your impending progress.
Training
My colleague Scott Crystal developed the Nexus Series for this month’s conditioning. I have selected both an anti-glycolytic (AGT) option alongside a more glycolytic session for those needing to peak for an event. The athlete can decide their path.
Training Sessions A + C use MEDKCR as their focal point, while Sessions B + D rely on a heavy Double Kettlebell Push Press. I have included tried-and-true strength and hypertrophy accessory movements as needed to ensure your enjoyment and progress.
A Note to Readers - StrengthAxis Program Design is reserved for PAID SUBSCRIBERS. The top section of this article is a preview of June's Program Design. There is a paywall separating the movements and their programmed volume and intensity. If you find value in my coaching expertise, please support me by becoming a paid subscriber.What’s New With Me
I was just certified by the National Rifle Association as a pistol instructor. I will begin immediately coaching my training clients in the operation of their firearms for self-defense. I am enjoying being a student and applying my skills outside of fitness.
I am looking forward to a summer full of road trips to hike distant mountains. Although I’ve been so occupied with work, I have found time to train OTM kettlebells, ruck/hike 2-3x/week, all while living each day to its fullest potential.
John Parker
June 1, 2025
I have prioritized hiking my local trails in anticipation of big summer peak bagging and backpacking. I typically head to Mission Trails in San Diego, CA to get as much vertical training as I can. Lately I have power hiked the hills while running the downhills and some of the flats. I use my 20kg GoRuck for neighborhood walks 2-3x/week.
I run an iteration of Kettlebell AXE 2-3x/week. I have been alternating between the two arm swing, one arm swing, and snatch. I have made my sessions a bit more glycolytic than AXE’s repetition high of 6. Instead, I’ll average around 8 reps per minute for 30:00 before work. One way I love to do OTM training is an ascending load + descending volume format. This allows me to maintain focus in achieving high power output while giving myself a reprieve per segment by lowering the volume.
Schedule
Goals
Strength Endurance: Centerfire: MEDKCR - Chain A + Chain B
Power + Strength + Hypertrophy: Push Press, Military Press, Front Squat, Floor Press, Renegade Row, Pull Up, Hanging Leg Raise, Windmill, and Get Up.
Resiliency Training
Resiliency: Scapular Strength 15+15+15+15/3, Tibialis Raise: 20/3, Standing Calf Raise: 20+20/3, ATG Split Squat 15+15/3, Poliquin Step Up 20+20/3
Optional: Prying Goblet Squat: 45,” World’s Greatest Stretch + Rotations: 5+5/5+5, Kettlebell Arm Bar: 12kg-16kg 30”+ 30,” Dead Stop Kettlebell Swing: 24kg x 8, 32kg x 6, 40kg x 4
High Efficiency Stretching: Upper, Midsection, Lower
Nutrition
Preferred Method 2: Standard - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner + PWO Meal
a. Protein Intake = 1g of animal protein per ideal pounds of bodyweight.
Double Kettlebell Loading
Conditioning: The Nexus Series by Scott Crystal
Nexus Series One
Double Kettlebell Power Snatch + Top Down Push Press + Top Down Jerk + Overspeed Front Squat
Nexus Series Two
Double Kettlebell Power Snatch + Top Down Push Press + Top Down Jerk + Swing
Resource for Centerfire Complexes
How to Apply Multiple Overspeed Front Squats
Power Threes
Before we get to Power Threes: A Power Based Complex, I want to let everyone know that my August Coaching Group begins August 1, 2022. MED Kettlebell Chains has been a tremendous success. Our coaching group has taught students the art of double kettlebell training in a sustainable and consistent model.