Unconventional training is the concept of using off-load gear for full body adaptation. For example, the equipment in the gym is very linear and everything is evenly weighted. This is much easier to work with, but you only work muscles in a certain capacity. This has its place, but with unconventional training your body constantly has to adapt to the load and mimics real life much more. This type of training is great for muscle imbalances because of adaptability. You will really be able to notice which muscles are working and which ones aren’t.

Steel Clubs

Steel club training originated in ancient Persia, where they were used for training warriors and wrestlers. They found that if they trained with heavier weapons, they would be able to swing lighter ones better in battle. Steel clubs are great for grip strength, shoulders, and rotational power.

Steel Mace

The mace was used in training by the Persian warrior elite. The same concept goes as training with heavier maces would let them use lighter one better in battle. The mace was referred to as the Gada. The mace was used also used in India, as well as strong man competitions in the early 20th century. The weight is extremely disproportionate and activates the stabilizer muscles. This mimics what you would carry during the day because everything is not evenly weighted.

Kettle bells

The kettle bells originated in Russia as a dock weight. The guys eventually created a competition and challenged each other. Kettle bells are great for work flows. This is doing a string of movement together. This works for bridging the gap between aerobic and non aerobic capacity.

Battle Ropes

John Brookfield, the founder of battle ropes went to the lord and asked him the best way to train humans over time. He was taken to water and shown waves. Waves are very powerful yet relaxed. Battle ropes help you maintain strength and endurance over time. They also work to fix muscle imbalances. Battle ropes are used by many professional athletes and MMA fighters.

Sand Bags

Sand bags have been traditionally used in Indian wrestles and combat athletes. The sand bag is a durable outer bag with the inside filled with sand. The weight of the bag shifts when you do. This activates the stabilizer muscles and creates a dynamic, challenging training session. These are very versatile, and can be used for a range of abilities.

Implementation

All of these tools can be found on onnit.com. They are well know for their functional training equipment and much more. When you get a tool, you probably would need a lighter weight than you would expect. These are harder to use than conventional equipment because there’s an off set weight, and you body has to adapt.