Powershape

FITNESS AS A FORM OF TREATMENT FOR CANCER PATIENTS.

2011-10-31T22:56:00.000-07:00

The following article was written by guest author Liz Davies. Important and well written articles such as this will always have a home on my Blog. Many thanks Liz, hopefully this is the first many.

Fitness is now being widely recognized as a method of treatment for those who are currently suffering from cancer. While fitness and exercise will not necessarily get rid of any cancer that is already present in the system, it is a great way to remain healthy and in shape while preventing various other forms of cancer and diseases. In fact, studies have shown that individuals who exercise for at least thirty minutes during the day are less likely to suffer from breast cancer, colon cancer, and even testicular mesothelioma. Individuals who are suffering from cancer will most likely undergo various types of treatment. Some of the most common treatment methods for cancer include radiation therapy, surgery, and even chemotherapy.

While these treatment methods can help reduce the cancer and possibly get rid of the cancer for good, some of the treatment methods can leave the patient feeling very tired and lightheaded throughout the day. Beginning a fitness routine on a daily basis can help the cancer patient to relieve some of these frustrating side effects of cancer treatments. There are several forms of exercise that can be performed by cancer patients. Before the patient begins their fitness routine, they should speak with their doctor about their condition to make sure that it is okay to exercise. Most doctors will encourage cancer patients to exercise.

When a cancer patient begins a fitness routine, they should start off with simple stretches. A simple stretch would include sitting on the floor and stretching out the legs and arms. Static stretching and passive stretching are both gentle versions of stretching that can be beneficial for cancer patients. Once the patient completes about five minutes of stretching, they should begin some aerobic exercises. Some of the best exercises for cancer patients include brisk walking, running on a treadmill, jogging, and riding a bike. The cancer patient can switch up their fitness routine and do different activities each day.

It is important to exercise but it is also important that the patient does not overdo it. A daily fitness routine of about thirty minutes will not only help the cancer patient to maintain fitness and get into shape, it will often help cancer patients on their road to recovering from cancer.Liz Davies is a recent college graduate and aspiring writer especially interested in health and wellness. She wants to make a difference in people’s lives because she sees how cancer has devastated so many people in this world. Liz also likes running, playing lacrosse, reading and playing with her dog, April.

( Liz Davies / Article ).
( Jody Cranston / 2011 ).

POWER WORKOUT.

2011-08-28T00:00:00.001-07:00

DOUBLE BODYWEIGHT BENCH PRESS / TRIPLE PLUS BODYWEIGHT DEADLIFT.

Today's workout:
Bench Press - 365lbs. Double Bodyweight.
Deadlift - 555lbs. Triple plus Bodyweight.

I feel contest ready, my body weight is good (possibly a little light) and the lifts were very fast and controlled. I finished my heavy day with: Incline bench presses, shoulders and abs.

To see video of my contest lifts click here:
Bench Press.
Deadlift.

( Jody Cranston / Workout ).

ORANJ FITNESS.

2011-06-29T20:43:00.001-07:00

"I have seen the future of fitness in Canada - and its Oranj..."

Oranj is a booming community based fitness, dance and yoga studio located on Lawrence Ave. in the heart of the vibrant downtown core of Kelowna BC. I am very excited/proud to be a part owner of BC's premier Fitness Studio which was started four years ago by my friends Sheila Chutskoff and Darrell Kopke.

Oranj Fitness is divided into four studio rooms to manage their four major health components: dance, yoga, indoor bootcamp and Spinning. Walk into any of these studio rooms during business hours and prepare to be amazed! The quality of the workouts, the number of enthusiastic people participating and the world class instructors are astounding. The four studio rooms are:
The Bon Jovi Room. - Mainly Dance. - From Zumba to Ballet. All of the dance classes at Oranj rate an 11 on a scale of 1 to 10. Extremely fun and effective.

The JT Room. - Mainly Yoga. - Ground yourself with premium yoga instructors. Oranj offers classes for all yoga levels. Build a strong foundation, strengthen your core and leave fatigued and fully regenerated. The candlelight classes are not to be missed.

The Micheal Jackson Room. - A brand new edition. Oranj is expanding! - Energy, Intensity - Fitness at its highest level! Quite simply the best spinning class you will ever attend!

The Elvis Room. - Real Trainers, Real Exercises, Real Results. - Kelowna can't/won't stop raving about the bootcamps at Oranj. The classes are packed daily. Simple: If you attend any of the bootcamps at Oranj and don't agree that it is the best bootcamp that you have EVER attended, I will personally reimburse you the drop-in fee. I could live in the Elvis Room.

Note: Due to logistics, some Yoga classes are in the Bon Jovi Room and some Dance is in the JT Room.It has been a pleasure watching Oranj grow from an idea to an empty location to the booked solid and expanding facility that it is today. Thanks to the brilliance of my friends Sheila and Darrell. Add in a new refreshment bar, beautiful upscale changing rooms, plenty of membership options and child care. Oranj is the perfect fitness experience. I have every Personal Trainers dream: a booming Fitness Studio that I am part owner of. Only, Oranj is in Kelowna and I am here in Vancouver. Oh well, I will figure it out one of these days. Until then, watch for an Oranj Fitness Studio opening one day at a location near you!

( Jody Cranston / Oranj Fitness ).

RETURN TO SPLENDOR

2011-01-06T02:14:00.001-08:00

"I have always wanted to do a blog entry with a tie-in to Elvis...here is my chance. The title of this entry is borrowed liberally from the 1962 number 1 smash hit Return to Sender by Elvis Presley. I use the title, with a slight change (and sense of humor), to refer to making the The 2010 Powerliftingwatch.com Annual Top 50 List. With everything that has happened since making the 2009 List one year ago, its great to be back."

At this time last year I was just starting to recover and slowly regain the range of motion for my left arm after my operation. Repair and rehab for a complete DISTAL BICEPS TENDON RUPTURE was the order of the day. Although the surgery was a total success and recovery was going well, lifting anything heavy at that point was well into the future. I owe a huge thank you to my friend Dan Leece for all his help and the guys on the powerlifting forums for their advice on beating my (by far) worst lifting injury. During this time I learned a tremendous amount about injury, training, psychology and kinetics.

Strangely, I miss this period and wouldn't trade a moment of it, both pre and post operation.

The Distal Biceps Tendon Rupture injury, operation and rehab was educational, strength building and a lot of fun. I trained my friend Vicki Greenwood 15 minutes after the acute tendon rupture and the only work day I missed was the Friday of the operation. The other major trauma this past year: losing my friend Robert O Smtith was a whole different matter. For the past Seven years Robert O Smith, Aden Carpenter and myself barnstormed around the Pacific Northwest: competing in meets, appearing on Television, and putting up some of the best power lifts of our lives! Robert O Smith absolutely revived my Powerlifting career. Aden and I have already lifted together in December and had a great meet, I Deadlifted 257.5 Kilos / 568 lbs. and Aden Bench Pressed 70 Kilos / 154 lbs. Both lifts were of coarse dedicated to Robert O but, it will never be the same without our Mentor.

Its great to be back lifting competitively. I can't wait to see what I can do in 2011 with my post operation scar on my left arm and Robert O Smith on my side.

POST SCRIPT:
Powerliftingwatch.com, the recognized leader in the Internet world of powerlifting comes out with a yearly Top 50 list for each lift and weight category. This has quickly become the powerlifting standard of excellence because The Top 50 includes every sanctioned contest over the past year regardless of federation.

Also worth noting, The Powerliftingwatch.com Top 50 has no age class verification, only what you weighed and what you lifted, pure statistics the way they should be. Therefore, if you have placed in the Top 50 you have ranked ahead hundreds, possibly thousands of other lifters!

( Jody Cranston / 2010 Powerlifting ).

USAPL 6th ANNUAL HOLIDAY CLASSIC.

2010-12-05T02:17:00.001-08:00

3 for 3 IN THE DEADLIFT: 257.5 Kilos / 568 lbs. : Master Men 82.5 Kilo / 181 lbs. Division.

USA POWERLIFTING WEBSITE.
( Jody Cranston / Lifting Contest ).
( Jody Cranston / Dec.4th, 2010).
3D Deadlift 'Toon courtesy of The Late Great Robert O Smith.

JODY CRANSTON DEADLIFTS 573 lbs. WABDL

2010-09-11T19:31:00.000-07:00

Jody Cranston Deadlifts 573 lbs./ 260 Kilos to set The WABDL 181 lbs. Division Canadian Master Deadlift Record at "The Great Northern Bench Press and Deadlift Championships" in Olympia Washington 2009. ~JODY'S ALL TIME BEST DEADLIFT 590lbs. at 163lbs. 3/10/2002.~

( Jody Cranston / WABDL ).
( Jody Cranston / Youtube / Video ).

JODY CRANSTON FEATURED ON THE EXPRESS.

2010-08-11T22:25:00.000-07:00

Jody Cranston attempts to Deadlift 405 lbs. as many times as he can in front of thousands on Television! Can he do it more than 15 times as he promised?

( Jody Cranston / Media / Video ).
( Jody Cranston / Shaw TV ).

JODY CRANSTON POWER TRAINING 2009.

2010-08-11T22:03:00.000-07:00

Jody Cranston Power Training 2009.
WABDL CANADA. - Best Lifts:
Bench Press: 375 lbs. @ 181 lbs. Div.
Deadlift: 590 lbs. @ 165 lbs. Div.
JODY CRANSTON POWER TRAINING IS FEATURED ON THESE WEBSITES.

( Jody Cranston / Power Video ).

METRO VANCOUVER NEWSPAPER: TOP 5 PERSONAL TRAINERS

2010-06-29T23:41:00.000-07:00

Guinness World Records Ltd. States that: "Metro is the worlds largest international newspaper with 70 editions published in 93 cities, 21 countries and 19 languages across Europe, North/South America and Asia attracting an audience of over 18.5 million daily readers."

To see this article in its original format click HERE.

TOP 5 PERSONAL TRAINERS
RECOMMENDED BY METRO READERS

JODY CRANSTON
"He is great at what he does and is one of the most enthusiastic people I know, which is so important when you are working towards any goal."

GRANT ROWE
"I started training with Grant about a year ago and the change in my looks and how I feel has been a night and day difference."

ERIN GUPPY
"She will design a fitness program that works for you."

KENNY MUIR
"He puts me through an incredibly challenging workout yet I feel safe and never been injured or relapsed once under his care."

PATTI BISHOP
"Patti is professional, fun and listens to her clients needs."

( Jody Cranston / Media ).
( Jody Cranston / Metro Newspaper ).

ROBERT O SMITH 1942 - 2010.

2010-06-02T11:44:00.000-07:00

ROBERT O SMITH PASSES AWAY

Canadian Bench Press King Robert O Smith passed away this morning, Sunday May 30th at 9:20 am, after a brave battle with pancreas cancer. Robert O had many successful decades of competing in all aspects of the Iron Game, but will probably be best remembered for setting the All Time 65 year old plus Bench Press Record of 578 lbs. As recently as last October he won his division at The WABDL World Championships where he also achieved a "Best Lifter" award. Robert O Smith is a true Lifting Legend, a Giant in the Powerlifting Community and will be missed by all that knew and lifted with him.

"Where Robert O is now: The bar is always loaded, the lifts are always light and there will always be three white lights for Robert O Smith."

( Jody Cranston / Robert O Smith Tribute ).

POWER ON.

2010-05-13T15:47:00.000-07:00

TODAYS TRAINING May 13th 2009.
I am really busy with work, so I had to combine two workouts today: Heavy Bench and Deadlifts together. This almost felt like a Lifting Meet and is a great way to prepare for future tournaments.

Deadlifts: 555 lbs x 1, 515 lbs x 2
Stiff leg Deadlifts on blocks - 405 x 3 x 2.

Bench Press: 355 lbs x 1, 315 lbs x 2.
Bench volume.

( Jody Cranston / Training ).

POWERLIFTING MAGAZINE.

2010-03-20T22:49:00.000-07:00

POWERLIFTING USA Magazine is considered the " Bible of Powerlifting " and is available at bookstores and newsstands the world over.

~Great Northern Bench Press and Dead Lift Championships~
" Venue: Red Lion Hotel, Olympia Washington. The event had 104 lifters from Idaho, Canada, Oregon and Washington. In the deadlift, Jody Cranston of Canada set a national record 573 lbs. in 40-46/181. Jody is a personal trainer and has about 50 clients. "

( Quote in Powerlifting USA. As reprinted from March/2010 issue ).
( Jody Cranston / Media ).

MSNBC.COM ARTICLE.

2010-02-03T23:43:00.000-08:00

Melissa Dahl wrote an excellent article about "Gym Injuries" on MSNBC.COM. It was very exciting to see that she used a quote from me for this piece from a telephone interview that we did. MSNBC.COM is the #1 internet news site in United States, with 37.2 million unique visitors a month (yahoo!News is second). I owe a huge "thank you" to Shawn Taylor of Shawn Taylor Photography for recomending me for this article. Below are my quotes from this piece, click HERE to read the article in its entirety.

So if health club newcomers are a little wary during their first few workouts, they have good reason.

“It can be, when you’re starting out, a huge, scary experience,” says Jody Cranston, a personal trainer in Vancouver, B.C. “You’ve got all this heavy equipment, these huge, heavy weights that almost seem like they’re flying around the room.”

In Cranston's 13 years of being a personal trainer, he’s seen his share of trips and falls — once, he even watched a gym newbie do a complete cartwheel before falling off a treadmill.

( Jody Cranston / Media ).

THE POWERLIFTINGWATCH.COM 2009 ANNUAL TOP 50 LIST.

2009-12-31T16:26:00.000-08:00

Powerliftingwatch.com, the recognized leader in the Internet world of powerlifting comes out with a yearly Top 50 list for each lift and weight category. This has quickly become the powerlifting standard of excellence because The Top 50 includes every sanctioned contest over the past year regardless of federation.

Also worth noting, The Powerliftingwatch.com Top 50 has no age class verification, only what you weighed and what you lifted, pure statistics the way they should be. Therefore, if you have placed in the Top 50 you have ranked ahead hundreds, possibly thousands of other lifters!

THE TEAM VANCOUVER MEMBERS WHO HAVE PLACED IN THE POWERLIFTINGWATCH.COM TOP 50:
148 lbs. Division / Women's Bench Press / Nancy Carpenter - 221 lbs.
308 lbs. Division / Men's Bench Press / Robert O Smith - 578 lbs.
181 lbs. Division / Men's Deadlift / Jody Cranston - 574 lbs.

I am ecstatic to have made The 2009 Annual List and a huge congratulations to Robert O and Nancy on their tremendous lifts.

Notes: Click on Robert O Smith's name to see his splendid write up on achieving a Powerlifting.com Top 50 Placing. To see this Blog entry in Press Release form click HERE.

( Jody Cranston / Internet Media ).

UNIVISION TV

2009-12-18T22:09:00.001-08:00

UNIVISION TV: Univisión is a Spanish-language television network in the United States. It has the largest Latin American audience, largely due to repurposed telenovelas and other Mexican programs. It is available on cable in most of the United States, with local stations in over 50 markets with sizeable Latino populations.

"I really like living in the age of Internet Media, it is always exciting to see where or what site you might be featured on. Recently some of my videos were picked up by Univision TV. This kind of International Media recognition and exposure is always welcomed, I can't wait to see were I could possibly appear next." To see my videos on Univision click HERE.

( Jody Cranston / Media ).

JODY CRANSTON 2010.

2009-09-30T21:58:00.001-07:00

Best Lifts 2009 : 181 lbs. Division (Open/M1) Bench Press - 375 lbs. Deadlift - 574 lbs.

( Jody Cranston / Recap 2009 ).

RECORD LIFTS FOR CRANSTON

2009-09-09T21:43:00.000-07:00

From The Richmond News, Wednesday September 9th, 2009...
RECORD LIFTS FOR CRANSTON

Richmond News
Published: Wednesday, September 09, 2009

Richmond's Jody Cranston produced a pair of first place finishes in the 181 lb weight class at the World Association Bench Press and Deadlifters Great Northern Bench Press and Deadlift Championships.

Cranston set the WABDL Canadian Masters class deadlift record by lifting 574 lbs. -- well over triple his bodyweight of 178 lbs.

The lifetime drug-free Richmond resident secured a second first place award by bench pressing 358 lbs.

"I am very happy with these lifts and plan to keep training hard so I can lift even more in the future," said Cranston.

The victories qualify Cranston for The WABDL World Championships in Reno Oct. 30.

© Richmond News 2009
( Jody Cranston / Media ).

THE VANCOUVER SUN NEWSPAPER

2009-09-05T14:31:00.000-07:00

From The Vancouver Sun, Saturday September 5, 2009...
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
JODY CRANSTON
The Vancouver resident won two titles last weekend at the World Association Bench Press and Deadlifters Great Northern Bench Press and Deadlift Championships in Olympia, Wash. Competing in the 181-pound division, Cranston, set the WABDL Canadian master class deadlift record by lifting 574 pounds.

The personal trainer won the bench press title by lifting 358 pounds. These wins qualified Cranston for the WABDL world championships in Reno, Nevada Oct. 30. "I plan to keep training hard so I can lift even more in the future," said Cranston.

© Copyright (c) The Vancouver Sun
( Jody Cranston / Media ).

RISKY BUSINESS...

2009-09-01T20:58:00.000-07:00

BIG CHALLENGES... BIG RISKS... BIG PAY OFF???
Wow...What a 72 hours. I had to prepare an important 10 minute presentation for my BNI Business Group, move POWERSHAPE Personal Training to a new location and of coarse compete in "The WABDL Great Northern Bench Press and Deadlift Championships" in Olympia Washington.(I also had My Master Card stolen but, that is a story for another time). Talk about pressure. How did everything turn out? Here are the details:

The BNI presentation went very well, complete with video high-lights. I am extremely excited to announce that my Business is now up, running and virtually booked solid at an upscale, private, professional Studio: The Georgia Athletic Club. And, as always Powerlifting was the centering force in my life as I competed along with my great friends Nancy and Robert O. This is the Contest details in PRESS RELEASE FORM:

CANADIANS LIFT BIG IN OLYMPIA
A Trio of Canadian Powerlifters had a very successful lifting Tournament in Olympia Washington on the weekend at "The WABDL Great Northern Bench Press and Deadlift Championships"

Nancy Carpenter Bench Pressed 209 lbs. to claim victory in the 148 lbs. Women's Master-Two Division. Carpenter also took home "Best Lifter" honours to cap off a great contest.

Canadian Bench Press Champion Robert O Smith pressed 529 lbs. to win the 308 lbs. Division and "Best Overall" title. Robert O holds the distinction of pressing the all time record for the 60 years plus age group at 579 lbs.

Jody Cranston scored a double victory by winning the Bench Press and Deadlift events in the 181 lbs. Master Divisions. Cranston, who weighed 178 lbs. Bench Pressed 358 lbs. and Deadlifted 574 lbs. for WABDL Canadian Master Records.

With their Championship wins the three Lifters are now officially qualified to represent Canada at the WABDL World Championships in Reno Nevada at the end of October.

I am very proud of everything that has been accomplished recently. It is funny how a Business location change, BNI Presentation and Lifting Tournament can build momentum off of each other. Putting three challenges together certainly creates a huge risk but, when successful, which fortunately these were, pays off a huge reward. Things have never been better.

( Jody Cranston / Contest ).

NEW MASTER DEADLIFT RECORD FOR JODY CRANSTON

2009-08-28T21:26:00.000-07:00

From The Richmond Review, Saturday August 28, 2009...
NEW MASTER DEADLIFT RECORD FOR JODY CRANSTON

Richmond's Jody Cranston was a double winner in the 181 pound division at the WABDL Great Northern Bench Press and Deadlift Championships" in Olympia, Wash. on the weekend.

Cranston, who weighted 178 pounds, set the WABDL (World Association Bench Press and Deadlifters) Canadian masters class record by lifting 574 pounds, well over triple his bodyweight.

The lifetime Richmond resident secured a second first-place award by bench pressing 358 pounds, double his bodyweight.

"I am very happy with these lifts and plan to keep training hard so I can lift even more in the future", said Cranston.

These Victories qualify Cranston for The WABDL World Championships in Reno Nevada October 30th.

( Jody Cranston / Media ).

THE PANTHEON STRENGTH LEGION AUGUST UPDATE.

2009-08-02T23:42:00.000-07:00

August's Pantheon Strength Legion "Day of The Dead" was also the "Day of the Almost 1 Rep. Maximums". Don't get me wrong - Ian, Pete and I were successful on all of our Deadlifts. But, it seemed like the kind of day to lift heavy AND lift for volume too - not completely spend all of our energy on "Gym Max's" and nothing else. So, with Highland Games Champion Bob Owen offering encouragement to The Pantheon Strength Legion here are the Highlights:

IAN: My friend Ian turned in an awesome strength performance; 405 lbs. Deadlift for 1 Rep. and 365 lbs. for four Reps.

PETE: Pete Deadlifted 365 lbs. for a strong single and 315 lbs. for four Reps. Extremely consistent.

JODY: I Lifted 565 lbs. for 1 Rep., then 405 lbs for a burn-out set.

JEFF: Jeff Benched Pressed a New Maximum of 220 lbs. So, one person went against today's theme and set a Personal Record. Congratulations Jeff!

So, there you have it...An extremely complete workout for The Pantheon Strength Legion. Heavy (almost) Max's and volume for the future. We had five lifters attend, including Bob, which is excellent for a long weekend in the middle of Summer. The Pantheon Strength Legion has momentum... The Pantheon Strength Legion has tenacity... The Pantheon Strength Legion is just getting started!!! Be there next month and participate with or witness The Pantheon Strength Legion destroy more heavy Iron...See you then!

( Jody Cranston / Pantheon Strength Legion ).

JODY CRANSTON POWER TRAINING 2009 FEATURED ON SPORTS ILLUSTRATED.COM

2009-07-22T21:03:00.000-07:00

"I have always been a huge fan of SPORTS ILLUSTRATED MAGAZINE and felt that SPORTS ILLUSTRATED set the standard for World Class sports coverage. I remember collecting the Magazines when I was younger and cutting out pictures of my favorite Athletes, especially Famous Boxers. So, imagine my surprise when my POWER TRAINING 2009 Video appeared on the SPORTS ILLUSTRATED MAGAZINE Web Site.
As an Athlete I am truly honoured and more importantly I think My Father Pat, a life-long Sports Fanatic would be proud." To view The Original Page click HERE.

( Jody Cranston / Media ).

PANTHEON STRENGTH LEGION - JULY UPDATE.

2009-07-04T15:43:00.000-07:00

With chalk on the ground and fortitude in the air The Pantheon Strength Legion once again lifted immence weights, massive volume, had a guest appearance and engaged in the inevitable Deadlift Fire-fight for their July Work-out. Here are the highlights:

JEFF - My good friend Jeff Moore equalled his Bench Press Max. with a explosive 215 lbs. press. New Max's to come...

IAN - Ian hit big Deadlift volume with a top set of 350 lbs. for an eye-popping triple the Repped out with 225 lbs. Ian is a strong and consistent lifter, great person to train with.

JODY - On Friday I Bench Pressed 365 lbs. for 1 Rep. and on Saturday with The Pantheon Strength Legion I Deadlifted 565 lbs. for 2 Reps.

PETE - Pete trained hard as usual, he Deadlifted 315 lbs. for a grinding set of four then lifted 225 lbs. for two sets of fourteen.

After the outstanding Deadlift portion of the training session, we hit: Stiff-legged Deadlifts, Over-heads and Pull downs to put the July workout in the books. I can't wait until August, everyone welcome!

( Jody Cranston / Pantheon Strength Legion ).

BOB OWENS B.C. HIGHLAND GAMES 2009.

2009-07-03T17:46:00.000-07:00

I would like to Congratulate my Good Friend Bob Owen on his 1st Place Victory at The B.C. Provincial Highland Games in Coquitlam last weekend. Although this was Bob's first Tournament in over a year, his win qualifies him for The Canadian National Highland Games in Calgary Alberta this September. Bob is obviously one of the favorites to win another National Title.

( Jody Cranston / Bob Owen ).

PANTHEON STRENGTH LEGION JULY PREVIEW.

2009-06-26T22:13:00.000-07:00

SATURDAY JULY 4TH PAC GYM.
"DAY OF THE DEAD"

( Jody Cranston / PSL ).

POWERLIFTING USA MAGAZINE.

2009-06-19T23:26:00.001-07:00

TEAM CANADA at the USAPL Pacific Open included (left to right) Mark Vezina, Robert O.Smith, Nancy Carpenter and Jody Cranston. (thanks to Robert O.Smith for providing us this photograph).

( As reprinted from Powerlifting USA Magazine March/2007 ).
( Jody Cranston / Media ).

THE PROVINCE NEWSPAPER.

2009-06-15T15:48:00.000-07:00

It takes a whole village to raise a champ

Darren Darby's corner is just as essential to his title-shot hopes as his fists; and both are growing day by day

By Steve Ewen, The Province

Darren Darby (centre) has a huge support network. From left, Jody Cranston (powerlifter and personal trainer), Jason Fenton (kick boxer), Paul Forde (MMA fighter), Barbara Barley (runs Sports Central Gym, where Darby does much of training), wife Denise Darby with children Kaden, Ethan, and Max, and Dr. Kris Bentz (naturopath).
Photograph by: Gerry Kahrmann, The Province.

Boxer Darren Darby checks out the technique of his youngest son, Ethan, during training for Friday's Rumble at the Rock. Darby is on the undercard.
Photograph by: Gerry Kahrmann, The Province.

Click HERE to read the entire article from The Province Newspaper Sports Section, Sunday June 14th 2009.

( Jody Cranston / Media ).

PANTHEON STRENGTH LEGION JUNE UPDATE.

2009-06-07T21:53:00.000-07:00

Junes hot weather was definitely not a deterrent to the red hot Pantheon Strength Legion. The basement of PAC Gym, at the corner of Hornby and Smithe, was smoldering from Power and Strength not just the weather! Here are a couple highlights:

PETE - Multi hard, grinding sets with three plates for the Deadlift. This volume will serve him well for future top end strength. Then Pete finished off the work out with some Lat/Trap work. Well done!

JODY - Friday, the day before The Pantheon Strength Legion trained, I Bench Pressed 365 lbs. for one rep. Saturday, with The Pantheon Strength Legion, I Deadlifted 565 lbs. for a double. I am really happy with that 24hr. training period.

I am already looking forward to July's Legion work out. Everyone Welcome - Join Us!

( Jody Cranston / Pantheon Strength Legion ).

KELLIE HAINES POWERLIFTING EPISODE.

2009-05-19T14:49:00.000-07:00

OPENING SCENE: Kellie, Kamilla and Magrau going to the Gym.

KELLIE: Today we are going to see WABDL Canadian Record Holder Jody Cranston lift some weights. He plans on lifting 500 lbs. for five Reps.!!!

MAGRAU: He is going to lift 5 lbs 500 times!?!! That will take all day!

KAMILLA: No Magrau he said...

SCENE # 2: At the Gym.

JODY: Hi everybody welcome to my training session. First I am going to do some warm-up sets.

1st Warm-up set 135 lbs.-

MAGRAU: What is in your mouth?

JODY: A mouth gaurd to bite down on.

KAMILLA: Wouln't you rather bite down on some licorice?

JODY: Actually that is not a bad idea.

2nd Warm-up set 225 lbs.-

JODY: What the?! Where is my lifting belt?!

MAGRAU: (Wearing the belt around his neck) you mean this?

KELLIE: Magrau!!!

3rd Warm-up set 315 lbs.-

JODY: (Close up) I need to concentrate.

MAGRAU: (Panning out seeing Magrau) Ever worry about getting injured?

KELLIE: Magrau!!!

4th Warm-up set 405 lbs.-

JODY: Well we are over 400 lbs. now and Great!!! No Magrau to distract me.

MAGRAU: (Looking up at Jody from between him and the Barbell) I hope you have insurance!

KELLIE: Magrau!!!

5th Warm-up set 455 lbs.-

MAGRAU: Hey Jody! If you are tired maybe I can lift this one for you...

The Bar Is Loaded To 500 lbs.-
Jody Lifts The Weight 5 Times!!! (Which I did earlier - prerecorded) And, is completetly exhausted / in pain.

MAGRAU: Are you sure this is more fun then Golf or Bowling?

CLOSING SCENE: Kellie, Jody, Kamilla and Magrau walking away from the Gym together.

KAMILLA: Jody, that was great!

JODY: Thanks, Kamila. That was alot of fun!

Kellie: That was fun!?

JODY: Yes, and Magrau, I could'nt have done it without you.

MAGRAU: Really?! Maybe I'll come to your next meet and coach you!

JODY: We'll see Magrau, We'll see...

FADE OUT.

PANTHEON STRENGTH LEGION - MAY UPDATE.

2009-05-04T20:22:00.000-07:00

RECORDS! RECORDS!! RECORDS!!!

Although the turnout was small; first weekend of May, great weather, The Canucks, etc.ect...The lifting was huge! Two new Personal Records were set by The Pantheon Strength Legion. Here are the highlights:

IAN - Ian Deadlifted 410 lbs.!!! That is practically a 100 lbs. increase in one year. That is allot of hard work and dedication paying off. Awesome job.

JODY - I did a 565 lbs. Deadlift for two reps. Both reps. were smooth and controlled and I Bench Pressed 365 lbs the day (Friday) before. That is an excellent 24 hrs. of training.

The Pantheon Strength Legion will reconvene the first Saturday of June at the same location. All levels welcome!

( JODY CRANSTON / PANTHEON STRENGTH LEGION.)

THE PANTHEON STRENGTH LEGION-APRIL UPDATE.

2009-04-11T22:10:00.000-07:00

IAN GOES FROM 3 TO 4 PLATES IN 11 MONTHS.

After a one month absence, I competed at the Washington State Powerlifting Championships the first Saturday of last month, The Pantheon Strength Legion was back in a big way! This was one of the most successful training sessions we had with the main highlight being Ian's huge improvement from when we started eleven months ago. Here is the breakdown:

JODY - I came in early for my warm-ups so I peaked at 10:00 am with a 565 lbs. Deadlift. I then lifted 550 lbs. for a triple.

PETE - My good friend Pete did alot of Deadlift volume culminating with three sets of four reps. at 315 lbs. Pete has trained with me since the Fitness Quest days which is 10 years ago.

IAN - Ian has worked hard and has seen a big pay-off with all of his lifts, especially the Deadlift. To go from a 315 lbs. max to a 405 lbs. max in 11 months is a tremendous accomplishment and it looks like this is just the beginning.

After the Deadlifts we did some dumbbell rows and rear delt flys. This concluded a huge workout and incredible lifting by The Pantheon Legion. I am really looking forward to next month.

( JODY CRANSTON / PANTHEON STRENGTH LEGION ).

The Canadian Health Food Association 2009 Expo West

2009-04-09T21:59:00.000-07:00

SHANI CRANSTON hOMe GROWN LIVING FOODS.

TOM MANNO PREMIA NATURALS.

I had a great time at The Canadian Health Food Association 2009 Expo West which was held at The Vancouver Convention & Exhibition Centre. I showed up and surprised my sister Shani who was there successfully marketing her incredible living foods line hOMe GROWN. We had a great visit while we walked around and tasted all the delicious and free products, pass the coconut juice. It was good to see Shani and Willy back from their winter in Mexico safe, sound and tanned. I look forward to seeing them again soon and I am very proud of them.

Also, at the same Expo I met up with my friend and World Bench Press Champion Tom Manno from Phoenix Arizona who was there overseeing the Premia Naturals booth with the very capable Arvan and Sanj. Tom endorses Premia Naturals products and I encourage everyone to try them.

Then on Monday, Tom met me at The Pantheon Athletic Club for a workout. Tom close-grip Bench Pressed 500 lbs. Fully paused. Fully controlled. WOW!!! Incredible raw strength. I did some Bench volume work and a very memorable workout was over and it was back to work. 18 clients/friends later, a great day was complete.

NOTE: Shani's website is www.homegrownlivingfoods.ca
Tom's website is www.premianaturals.com

(JODY CRANSTON EVENTS)

JODY CRANSTON BIOGRAPHY.

2009-04-06T19:29:00.000-07:00

I am the owner of the Vancouver-based Highly Successful Fitness company, Power Shape Personal Training, a Business I established in 1997.
________________________________________________________

WABDL Canadian National Records are:

148lbs.
Bench Press:303lbs. Deadlift: 515lbs. (My Best Deadlift in The 148lbs. Division is 520lbs.USPF).
165lbs.
Bench Press:330lbs. Deadlift: 590lbs.
181lbs.
Bench Press:375lbs. Deadlift: 585lbs.
________________________________________________________

I have been featured on City TV's "Breakfast Television", Shaw TV's "The Express"(Sports Section),"The Richmond Review" and "The Richmond News". I also write a Fitness Column for "Urban Trendz Magazine". Recently I became a Co-Owner of "Oranj Dance and Fitness Spa" (oranjdance.com) in Kelowna where I exclusively developed : "The Cast Iron Indoor Power Bootcamp" , while continuing to train 16 to 20 people a day of all fitness levels in Vancouver.

( BNI Presentation ).

BIG BENCH PRESS AND DEADLIFT DAY.

2009-02-21T19:37:00.000-08:00

A FULL DAY OF CLIENTS;
PLUS HEAVY LIFTING.

I think today, Friday February 20th, I did a workout worth documenting. It was suppose to be a heavy Bench Day with no other work and I had a one hour break at 9:00 to 10:00 to do this. I sprained my right Rotator Cuff (shoulder joint muscle) mid December and at first could not even bench 100 lbs. without some discomfort. My rehab programme has progressed rapidly and my bench press work has improved greatly since this injury.

Today, I pressed 335 lbs for one rep. without any problem. Then I pressed 185 lbs.(slightly more then my Body weight) twenty times to finish the workout.

So, why am I writing about a Bench Press 30 lbs. below my Max.? Well, after my workout I noticed I had a break for lunch at 12:30. That's when the idea hit me: "...skip lunch and do Deadlifts, it will almost feel like a Lifting Contest". Bench Press first, then Deadlift a few hours later with little or nothing to eat. Plus, if I do a 565 lbs. Deadlift and add that to my 335 lbs Bench Press that would equal 900 lbs. This would be done while weighing within the 181 lbs. Division on a Training Day! How do you say no to that? By 1:45 it was done, a 565 lbs. Deadlift. To reiterate: a 335 lbs. Bench Press plus a 565 lbs. Deadlift equals 900 lbs.!

By the end of the work day, I am feeling light-headed from the lack of nourishment. I didn't eat since 5:00 am but, after a busy day with clients and my workout, I feel great! And, Battle Ready for my next Meet.

( JODY CRANSTON / WORKOUT )
( PICTURE FROM WASHINGTON STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS 2008 )

THE PANTHEON STRENGTH LEGION FEBRUARY UPDATE.

2009-02-15T20:04:00.000-08:00

Another great training session for The Pantheon Strength Legion. I knew we would have less then an hour to train(10 to 11). This includes setting up before and clean-up after. I did my Deadlifts earlier in the week, which I will still include below, so I could concentrate on Coaching, spotting and loading because of the limited time.

Ian - Lifted 365 lbs. With rep. work after, this included some Sumo-style Deadlifts.

Pete - Pete also lifted 365 lbs. then, four reps. with 315 lbs.

Dan - This was our Guest Lifter this month. Dan Deadlifted 225 lbs. 16 reps. and, 315 lbs. for 16 reps. between Squats. Wow!

Jody - I Deadlifted 565 lbs. for one rep. and 405 lbs. for eight reps.

As always, Excellent lifting with an awesome atmosphere for The Pantheon Strength Legion.

( JODY CRANSTON / PSL )

PANTHEON STRENGTH LEGION-DECEMBER UPDATE.

2008-12-13T07:18:00.000-08:00

One final Work-out for The Pantheon Strength Legion before Christmas...actually two. For the New Year there will be two, count them, two Pantheon Strength Legion Work-outs per Month. The First Saturday of every Month at 10:00 am, and the Friday before at 6:00 am. That is twice within 24 hours.

For The December Work-outs we had Four Lifters, here are the Highlights:

JODY - 365 lbs. Bench Press for one Rep., then 185 lbs. for 24 Reps.

JUSTIN - Stiff-legged Deadlifts up to 315 lbs. with a Double Overhand and as always, perfect form.

IAN - A 365 lbs Deadlift for a single, then Rep-work with 315 lbs. This was followed by Dumbbell Rows and Leg Presses.

The Pantheon Strength Legion will reconvene in February at The New Times of : The First Saturday of every Month 10:00 am and The Friday the Day before at 6:00 am. Everyone Welcome!!!

(Jody Cranston / PSL)

JODY CRANSTON INTERNET MEDIA.

2008-10-24T23:09:00.000-07:00

HAVE POWER WILL TRAVEL.

Recently I have been featured on these Websites. I really appreciate the support. Check them out and enjoy.

BUSCATUBE - Tu super meta buscador de videos...

WELLSPHERE - Health and Knowledge Made Personal.

KRAFTSPORT - Top Norwegian Powerlifting and Strength Sport Site.

31337VIDEO - Popular Internet Video Aggregator.

NEW WORLD LIFT RECORD FOR CRANSTON.

2008-10-24T22:23:00.000-07:00

From The Richmond News, Friday October 24, 2008...
NEW LIFT RECORD FOR CRANSTON.

Richmond's Jody Cranston set the World Association of Benchers and Deadlifters' Canadian Bench Press Record for his division at the third annual Pacific Open Powerlifting Contest in Olympia Wa.

Cranston pressed 375 pounds to win the 181 lb. division--well over double his bodyweight.

The victory qualifies him to represent Canada at WABDL World Championships in Las Vegas on Nov.22.

( Jody Cranston / Media ).

TWO OUT OF THREE AIN'T BAD.

2008-10-24T21:41:00.000-07:00

On Saturday October 18th "The Vancouver Powerlifting Club": Nancy Carpenter, Robert O Smith and Jody Cranston hit the road for another United States Powerlifting Extravaganza in Seattle Washington. Leaving at 5:30 AM and arriving at the venue by 8:30 for the weight-in the ride was smooth and with-out incident.

Here are the Statistics:

Nancy Carpenter - 200lbs. Bench Press at 148lbs. Two out of three lifts successful. Extremely strict Judging. Nancy really earned these lifts and more. Awesome Benching!!

Robert O Smith - 512lbs. Bench Press at 308lbs. Two out of three lift successful. A slight lifting of the head technicality on the second lift but, an American Record Bench Press on his third!!

Jody Cranston - 560lbs. Deadlift at 180lbs. Two out of three lifts successful, and thus the Title of this Blog Entry. Once again extremely strict Judging. All, three lifts were completed but a slight technicality on my second lift. 575lbs. and beyond will have to wait.

The Contest Awards presented were excellent. And, as always the ride home was overflowing with fun, food, and frivolity, not to mention "Rock Star" energy drinks. Robert O endorsed and Nancy recommended.

(Pictures Courtesy of Robert O Smith)
(Jody Cranston / Contests)

BULL STEWART.

2008-10-24T21:16:00.000-07:00

The Bible of our sport, Powerlifting, is a Magazine called Powerlifting USA. This Magazine sets the standards, keeps the statistics and writes the articles that virtually every Powerlifter reads to keep informed. A few months ago Powerlifting USA started a feature called "The ultimate Top 10". This ranks the Top 10 Greatest All Time Lifters for each Division. When the September/2008 Edition arrived I was both excited and nervous. Excited because I knew they were rating the 242lbs. Division. Bull Stewarts Division. A little nervous because I know, from Boxing, how subjective "Top 10 Lists" can be. Well Bull received his due. Not only was he in The Top 10 but, he was in The Top 5!!! Wow!!! Congratulations Bull on this incredible yet richly deserved honour/achievment. I will be saving this issue of Powerlifting USA for years to come.

(Photo of Champions Bull Stewart and Richard Schuller courtesy of Robert O Smith)
(Jody Cranston / Events)

LEA HENDRIX.

2008-10-23T21:18:00.000-07:00

How do I describe Lea Hendrix's Powerlifting performance on October 18th in Seattle. Actually, I can't, but at least I will try. Beauty...Strength...Honour... Imagine, competing in a full Powerlifting Contest, setting State Records, having the crowd on its feet a mere 72 hours after intense Chemotherapy Treatment. I have lifted competitively since 1993 and have seen many, many awesome lifting performances but nothing will ever compare to the lifting performance I saw Lea turn in, or will continue to perform for many years to come. It is an honour to lift in the same contests as Lea and her Husband Roger. As I write this Blog entry on a cold, Grey,raining Monday morning in Downtown Vancouver the day looks a whole lot brighter knowing Lea Hendrix is my friend.

(Photo from Robert O Smith)
(Jody Cranston / Events)

THE PANTHEON STRENGTH LEGION-OCT. UPDATE.

2008-10-04T15:54:00.000-07:00

The Pantheon Strength Legion is back in a Big way! Here is the October Update. This Month due to Members busy schedules we had two Workouts, one on Friday and one on the usual Saturday(the first Saturday of the month).

Highlights/Friday.
Jody -Bench Press- I Benched 365lbs. for a Single, then 185lbs. for a 20 Rep. Burn-out set.
Bob -Power-Cleans- Speed work with 30 second intervals.

Highlights/Saturday.
Ian -Deadlifts- A New Personal Record! 370lbs. I believe a 400lb. Deadlift is just around the corner.
Justin -Deadlifts- Lots of Volume. Justins Technique is virtually flawless. If anyone wants to learn how to Deadlift properly, watch Justin.

Next month, November, The Pantheon Strength Legion will Lift again. New members from Beginner to Intermediate always welcome.

(Jody Cranston / PSL)

ONE FOR THE BOOKS. OLYMPIA WASHINGTON.

2008-09-20T22:11:00.000-07:00

To view the Press Release of this Article Click HERE.

The Third Annual Pacific Open Bench Press and Deadlift Championships.
The Valley Athletic Club.
September 13th 2008.

If ever a Powerlifting Contest resembled a Pro-Sports "All Star Game", This was the Contest. The amount of Records both attempted and set and the National/World Class lifts completed, for the number of lifters was truly astounding! Go to the The World Association of Bench Pressers and Deadlifters to see all of the statistics to this Tournament and you will be amazed.

How did "The Vancouver Powerlifting Club" perform? Lets go back to when Robert, Nancy and I left from Vancouver on Friday, September 12th and find out. As always the drive to the Border and down the I-5 was a lot of fun, a lot of laughs and time seemed to go by quickly. We all weighed in successfully below our weight Division limits then went to a Mexican Restaurant to replenish.

Thank goodness for "Bottomless" Nachos and Salsa! I think Nancy and I consumed chips and salsa continuously until the Main Courses arrived. Next time Robert has to bring his "A" game to the Dinner Table to keep up. After a great meal and as always, great conversation (it always a great time with Robert and Nancy) it was time to rest relax and get ready for "The Pacific Open Bench Press and Deadlift Championships".

The Vancouver Powerlifting Club reconvened the next morning for Breakfast downstairs at the Hotel at about 7:45 am. After loading up on the perfect pre-contest fuel, by mimicking everything Nancy ate, we were on our way to the contest which was about 5 minutes away.

The Contest:
The warm-up area was spacious, we used the Fitness Centre which attaches to the gym where the contest was located and gave our selves a lot of time for a "Stress Free" environment. The warm-ups went off without a hitch, on to the "Third Annual Pacific Open Bench Press and Deadlift Championships", Nancy, Robert and I are ready to lift...

Nancy Carpenter: First Place Bench Press./198 lbs. at 148 lbs. Division, 45 - 49 WABDL Women's Canadian Record. An incredible feat of strength, almost 200 lbs. Nancy is always focused, stoic and of course powerful. A 200 lbs. Bench Press and beyond is hers in the near future. This I promise. Nancy is also the Best Coach I could ever have.

Robert O Smith: First Place Bench Press./545 lbs. at 308 lbs, Division, 65+ Master Men's. To see the real story of Roberts contest go to Benchbozo.blogspot.com to see his two valiant attempts at 600 lbs.on video. Robert is already the strongest Bench Presser over 65 years in the world but, astoundingly Robert seems to be just getting started. 600 lbs. will happen dramatically at the WABDL World Championships this November in Las Vegas.

Jody Cranston: First Place Bench Press./375 lbs. at 181 lbs. Division, Sub-Master WABDL Canadian Men's Record~and~First Place Deadlift/568 lbs. at 181 lbs. Division, Sub-Master Men. First, the Bench Press. I am very happy with 375 lbs., it felt fast and controlled, I know I will be able to do even more in the future. Now, the Deadlift. My final lift, 568 lbs. was solid, almost light...almost. I can't wait to try heavier in the future.

The Aftermath:
I love Statistics, especially good ones like "The Vancouver Powerlifting Club's" for this meet. But, usually the true highlights for any meet lies between the numbers, this tournament was no different. Robert and Nancy's two attempts at over 600 lbs. and 200 lbs. respectively cannot be overstated. I know my tenacious friends and teammates will break those barriers soon. The overall quality of the lifting at this contest was Phenomenal, better lifts then most Federations Nationals. As always the experience was awesome, especially with Robert and Nancy to share it with.

Post Script:
After the tournament I realized that I didn't get my Medals. I was warming up for the Deadlift when the Bench Press Awards Presentation was happening. By the time they were presenting the Deadlift Awards to my division they ran out. They are being mail to me. I told Richard Schuller,(a Multi-National Champion) no problem about the Awards, Leamon Woodley (one of the Great All Time U.S. Lifters) told me "Good Lifting". I said to Richard that means more than any Award..."It certainly does" he said, "It certainly does".

(Pictures Courtesy of Robert O Smith.)
(Jody Cranston / Events).

TAILA"BABYCAKES"CRANSTON

2008-08-15T21:07:00.000-07:00

Don't worry about Canada's performance at The 2008 Beijing Olympics. The real Canadian Sports Story is Taila"Babycakes"Cranston accomplishing the incredible feat of 12 "Paddle-Splashes" in 10 seconds.

Although it was "Babycakes" first venture into Water Sports The Mighty Toddler stunned the capacity crowd with her unprecedented success. "Aaaba Aaaba Aaaba" she eloquently stated to Press Row moments afterward, can a Clothing Line or Product endorsements be far behind? Probably not.

Stay tuned for more adventures from Taila"Babycakes"Cranston.

(Jody Cranston / Events).

NEW RECORD FOR CRANSTON

2008-08-14T21:18:00.000-07:00

From The Richmond News, Wednesday July 27,2004...
NEW RECORD FOR CRANSTON

Richmond's Jody Cranston set a new WABDL Canadian Sub-Master Record for the Deadlift at a powerlifting meet in Tacoma, Wa. last weekend.

The 34-year-old Owner of Powershape Personal Training successfully lifted 585 lbs. at a body weight of 176 lbs. The lift also earned him the best overall trophy beating out all the other competitors at the event.

"I'm very satisfied with my training and this accomplishment", said Cranston, who has established several WABDL Canadian Records at different weight classes in his career.

"I can't wait to see what I do at my next meets."

MY REAL ESTATE PORTFOLIO.

2008-08-09T14:57:00.000-07:00

Someone once said:"There are only two ways to become Wealthy; Stocks and Real Estate". If you are a Great Businessman, Tenacious, and don't mind a Gamble, like my Grandpa Diamond Joe Williams, Stocks are fine. For the rest of us there is Real Estate. Here are The Four Properties that make up my Real Estate Portfolio:

1)~Port Edward~;Prince Rupert.
Lot Size: 60x100, 6,000 Sq.Ft.
So much of Investing in Northern B.C. is speculating on future Infrastructure.
Prince Rupert is a growing Port City. Guaranteed Infrastructure. Big Infrastructure.

2)~Kittimatt~;North Coast.
Lot Size: Corner Lot, 7,345 Sq.Ft.
Beautiful Coastal Area. Big Game Hunting, Fishing and all kinds of Outdoor Sports. This Property is also close to a Golf Coarse. Incredible Long-term Potential.

3)~Townhome~;Lower Mainland.
Lot Size: Strata.
3 level Townhome that faces a Park and backs onto a Court Yard. This Property has Doubled in value since it was purchased in 2004.

4)~Logan Lake~:Kamloops.
Lot Size: 59x110, 6,490 Sq.Ft.
In 2007 The Lower Mainland increased in 18% in Value. The Island 24%. The Okanagan a Whopping 28%. That's all nice and everything but, Kamloops beat them all and increased 31% in Value. This Property is close to loads of Future Development and is a few yards from Lakefront.

So there you have it, my Real Estate Portfolio...and I know what you are thinking: "I knew Jody could lift weights and run a Personal Training Business but, I didn't know that he knew so much about Investing in Real Estate". Actually, everything I learned about Investing, I learned from my Uncle and Real Estate Salesman Extraordinaire Brady Williams. I wouldn't buy or sell Real Estate with anyone else. Ever. If my Uncle doesn't believe in what you are buying, or wouldn't buy it himself, he won't sell it to you. That's right, he physically will not write up the Contract. "Buy this from another Agent, I won't sell it to you". He once told me if I ever mention Investing in Strata again, he will hang-up on me. How do you not deal with someone that honest? I have a lot of Respect for my Grandpa and my Uncle. And, I am very proud of my Real Estate Portfolio.

(Post Script).
I think my Investing days are over for a while, its time for me to play the "End Game" and finish paying everything off. The Market seems quite Volatile right now. Sales Volume in B.C. is down 40% from July 2007 to July 2008 and yet, prices are only down 1%. Then again, it looks like we are entering a "Buyers Market" and I would really like to own something on the Island....

(Jody Cranston / Business)

MONSTER MUSCLE MAGAZINE.

2008-07-27T16:22:00.000-07:00

Jody Cranston of Canada wins 1st place in Bull Stewart's Powerlifting Meet in Seattle, WA.

(Reprinted from Monster Muscle Magazine Oct 2003).

DEADLIFT MAX. WORKOUT.

2008-07-23T20:57:00.000-07:00

I Statistically had my Best Deadlift Workout in over a year. 565 lbs. for 1 Rep./500 lbs. for 5 Reps. All the Volume Training that I have been doing is paying off (455 lbs. 2 Sets for Reps./405 lbs 2 Sets for Reps). I do my Volume Training wearing Runners with really thick soles and an insole on top of that. When its time to Max-out, like Today, I put on my Deadlift Slippers. When I wear these Slippers I am Slightly closer to the ground. Now, I don't have to reach down as far to lift the Bar off the ground or pull the weight up quite as far to lock-out. Amazing what a difference an inch of leverage can make...and a little hard work. I can't wait to see what I am Deadlifting/Bench Pressing next. This Programme works.

(Jody Cranston / PSL)

BOB OWEN-HIGHLAND GAMES CHAMPION!

2008-07-19T15:20:00.000-07:00

I would like to congratulate my Good Friend Bob Owen on his Silver Medal at "The 2008 B.C. Highland Games Championships". To place 2nd in a field of over 30 Strength Athletes is an Incredible Accomplishment. Bob is The Strongest Person that I have ever trained with: well over 600 lbs. Deadlifts for Reps.,endless Highland Games Victories, Canada's Strongest Man Television Appearances and the humility/character of a true Champion. I am Proud to have Bob Owen as my Friend.

(Jody Cranston / Events).

THE PANTHEON STRENGTH LEGION-JULY UPDATE!

2008-07-12T16:05:00.000-07:00

Although it is Summer Time, The Pantheon Strength Legion is still going strong, both literally and figuratively.

THE HIGHLIGHTS:

Bob Owen - Fresh off Victory at "The 2008 B.C. Highland Games" started the session off with Heavy Power-Cleans and a 315 lbs. Push-Presses for Reps.

Jody Cranston - Jodys First Deadlift Work-Out after Winning "The Alki Beach Bench Press and Deadlift Championships" Produced a 555 lbs Deadlift for Two Reps.

Pete - Pulled an All-Time Personal Record 365 lbs. Deadlift.

Ian - Who is Training for a Half Marathon, Deadliftied 315 lbs. for Reps. A Half Marathon and Powerlifting, talk about "Cross-Training".

After "The Deadlift Extravaganza" we did a Power Circuit of Light Squats, Heavy Shrugs and Abs. Great Day! Great Work-Out!

(Jody Cranston / PSL).

PICTURES FROM ALKI BEACH.

2008-07-04T19:33:00.000-07:00

The 12th Annual Alki Beach Powerlifting Championships.
(Part 2 Pictures and Postscript)

I am very Proud to call Robert O and Nancy my Friends. Part of what I enjoy the most about competing in these Contests is helping Coach, sort out equipment and give Robert O and Nancy Lift-offs on their Record Breaking Bench Presses. My Father Pat was a Great Man and a Great Sportsman, Coach and Organizer. I know when I help my Friends Robert O and Nancy lift he would be smiling...possibly even more then when I am lifting. I think I'm starting to Understand what is really important. Thanks Dad.

THEY CALL ME...MR.DOUBLE-TRIPLE.

2008-07-02T22:46:00.000-07:00

The 12th Annual Alki Beach Powerlifting Championships.

(Part 1 Statistics and Summary)

The Title of this Blog Entry is borrowed liberally from The 1967 Academy Award Winning Motion Picture "In The Heat Of The Night", Starring Sidney Poitier and Rod Steiger.

THE STATISTICS: -Jody Cranston- 181lbs. Division, 1st Place./Bench Press: 370 lbs.(WABDL) Canadian Record/Deadlift: 557 lbs. Double Bodyweight+ Bench Press and a Triple Bodyweight+ Deadlift. -Robert O Smith- 308 lbs. Division, 1st Place./Bench Press: 562 lbs.(WABDL) World Record. -Nancy Carpenter- 148 lbs. Division, 1st Place/Bench Press: 192 lbs.(WABDL) Canadian Record.

THE SUMMARY: Although I have never been Excited about Lifting Outdoors in the past, and I have Lifted Outdoors, this all changed with this Contest. Thank You Robert O and Nancy for talking me into Alki, I won't miss this Contest again.

Up at 3:15 am. I pick up Robert O and Nancy by 4:20 am and we are on our way! The Ride is smooth with minimal traffic and Border line ups. We arrive at Alki Beach before 8:00 am and weigh in. You know that you are at an Outdoor Meet when Robert O has a weigh-in problem,not his weight, branches from surrounding Trees keep getting in the way of the scale. Time for Breakfast. I've always had problems with what to eat hours before lifting, not any longer. The last few Meets I've left the Menu in the hands of an Expert: Nancy Carpenter. The positive results are immediate, Today's Pre-Contest Meal: Two Poached Eggs, Toast, a shot of Espresso. Perfect. I feel ready to Lift.

~The Bench Press~ The Meet starts on time and the Lifter Flights are short. I feel extremely rushed during my Warm-ups. To add to the challenges the Bench uprights are low, this means I have to do a half lift just to get the Bench into starting position. The Beach has now gotten quite windy. Although those challenges are difficult for a Technique Lifter like myself, The Grizzled Veteran in me knows when I hit the platform it will all be different......or will it.

Time for my Opening Bench Press Attempt: 319 lbs. I have the Bench Up-rights adjusted perfectly and Robert O is my Lift-off Man, also perfect. The bar comes down slow and controlled, than shoots up fast. It feels light. I confidently get up from the Bench already thinking of my Second attempt when I get the News: Two red lights - No Lift. The two side judges said I lifted my butt, which Nancy confirms. I repeat my opener, (text-book strategy) and more determined then ever, nail it: For the Third attempt I lift 341 lbs., it seems surprisingly light.

Time to go for The Canadian WABDL Bench Press Record on my fourth and Final Attempt. 370 lbs, well over Double my Bodyweight!! The "Team" is on. Perfect words of encouragement from Nancy matched by a Perfect Lift-off from Robert O. 370 lbs. Flies up. The Lift is good, no The Lift is Perfect!!

Robert O and Nancy do incredibly well with their Record Smashing Bench Presses. Robert O once again Proves himself to be the Best 65+ year-old Bench Presser on the The Planet by Lifting 562 lbs. with Precise Judging and Technique. I gave Robert O the Lift-offs and believe me, his Lifts would easily stand in any Federation. Nancy Benches 192 lbs. for a WABDL Canadian Record. The fact that Nancy lifted that weight in the 148 lbs. division is Phenomenal. Nancy also doesn't receive any Red lights on any of her lifts. That is nine out of nine White Lights. Awesome!

~The Deadlift~ Like the Bench Press, the warm-ups for the Deadlifts I find extremely difficult, only now there is a Blazing Afternoon Sun to contend with. Being an Outdoor meet, the Deadlift warm-ups are on the grass, anything over 400 lbs. sinks deeper into the Earth! By the time the Bar is loaded to 475 lbs. I have to reach 2 inches farther down to the Bar and therefore pull 2 Inches further up, plus the weights are lopsided. Having said all that, I am really enjoying this meet. The Adverse conditions keep things exciting, interesting.

My opening attempt is 519 lbs. No problem. My second attempt is 557 lbs, seventeen pounds more then Triple my Bodyweight and The Weight flies up fast. I feel ready for more except for one thing, something has really tightened in my Glute-Hamstring Area. Nancy, who is my Deadlift Coach notices that I am limping. After discussing the injury for several minutes, and several strategies, I respect Nancy's expert advise and do not take a Third and Final Attempt (588 lbs.). It's been a Great Meet for all of us, why get injured further, possibly seriously and miss the next one. The Drive home is full of food, stories and laughter. Thank you Robert O and Nancy, this Truly was one for the Books.

(Jody Cranston / Events)

THE BIG "O" SETS WORLD BENCH PRESS RECORD!!!

2008-06-21T18:49:00.000-07:00

My Good Friend and someone I've Competed with many times, Robert O Smith set The World 65+ Bench Press Record by Lifting 562lbs. He Achieved this while Competing within The 308lbs Division in Phoenix Arizona. That's Right, Robert isn't just The Strongest 65+ Athlete in B.C. or Canada, He's The Strongest in The World! For a Full Report go to robertosmith.com (located in my Links). This is an Incredible Achievement Robert and I look forward to Witnessing, Competing with and Reporting on many more in the years to come.
(Photo of Robert O Confronting a Future Opponent Stolen from benchbozo.blogspot.com)

(Jody Cranston).

PANTHEON STRENGTH LEGION-JUNE UPDATE!

2008-06-08T17:50:00.000-07:00

The Undisputed Strongest Athletes at Pantheon once again moved some Big Iron on June 7th, here are The Highlights:

Bob - Did Military Presses and Power-Cleans well over 300lbs.

Jody - Deadlifted 555lbs. for a Fast Single Rep. Then Deadlifted 500lbs. 5 times for a Burn-out Set.

Scott - Inched up an Astonishing 400+lbs. Bench Press.

Ian - Deadlifted a Personal Best 365lbs. Thats an Amazing 30+lbs. Improvement after only 2 Months of Training!!!

Pete - Lifted well into The 300's and I Predict will be Deadlifting Over 400lbs. soon.

Another Great Day for The Power Crew at Pantheon! New Personal Records being set in a Competitive Atmosphere. Next Session The 1st Saturday in July Downstairs. Be There!!!

(Jody Cranston / PSL)

TAILA "BABY CAKES" CRANSTON - MY ANGEL!!!

2008-05-30T23:13:00.000-07:00

The Strength World was stunned as Taila "Baby Cakes" Cranston performed an awesome feat of Power: Deadlifting the back end of a "Dora The Explorer" Grande Piano with a Double Overhand Hook Grip. The Mighty-Mite excitedly exclaimed to the anxiously awaiting Press"Gabba Gee Gee Ya Ya"! This looks like just the beginning for "Baby Cakes". More to follow.

(Jody Cranston / Events)

WEDNESDAY!!!

2008-05-28T23:40:00.000-07:00

Let me tell you about my Bussiest Day of the week-WEDNESDAY!
Personal Training for 14 hours, will I find time to eat, rest or train myself ? Lets find out.

Here is the Timeline:

TIME - CLIENT

6:00 - Chris

6:30 - Heather
7:00 - Sylvia, Nancy and Gail
8:00 - Scott
9:00 - Dawn and Vicki
10:00 - Jon
10:30 - Elka
11:00 - Quick Snack
11:30 - Ed
12:00 - Jeff
12:30 - Andy
1:30 - Lynn
2:00 - Gary
2:30 - Canace
3:30 - Ralph
4:00 - Phil and Wendy (The Brilliant Minds That Created This Blog).

4:30 - Pete - I really feel like Training, so I work in with my Client Pete. We hit Deadlifts hard.
Pete works up to 3 1/2 plates and I Deadlift 555lbs. (well over Triple my Bodyweight)!
I then Deadlift 500lbs. for 5 Reps. Wash up quick then back to work.

5:30 - Clarise
6:00 - Stephanie and Elizebeth
6:45 - Darell
7:30 - Paperwork for 1/2 an hour - DONE!!!!

24 Clients, over Triple Bodyweight Deadlift and I Celebrate all the way home!!!

The rest of my week is extremely Busy too but, there is something about Wednesday.

(Pictures from The Genius Mind and Camera of Robert O Smith.)

THE PANTHEON STRENGTH LEGION.

2008-05-21T19:00:00.000-07:00

The first monthly work-out of the Pantheon Strength Legion was an overwhelming success with almost 10 powerful athletes showing up for the strength challenge. Here are some of the deadlift highlights.

Bob - Opened the session with an effortless 605 lbs triple. Incredible especially considering this was after an hour of power cleans.

Jody - Deadlifted 550 lbs (over 3x bodyweight) for a fast double.

Scott - Pulled an easy 500 lbs and looked very powerful well into the mid 500's.

Ian - Deadlifted 3 plates for 3 reps for 3 strong sets.

Albert - Lifted close to 300 lbs, then pulled 225 lbs for an iron-willed 12 reps!

Pete - Who's previous best was 335 lbs lifted 350 lbs for a triple!! That's just the type of day this was. New records, awesome atmosphere!!

Justin - Deadlifted a fast 455 lbs, then closed the show with a jaw dropping 405 lbs for 10 reps!!

The Pantheon Strength Legion trains the first Saturday of every month at 1:00PM downstairs at the PAC.

(Jody Cranston / PSL).

Hardcore Training!

2008-05-21T18:40:00.000-07:00

Jody Cranston hardcore training! 555lbs deadlift and 345lbs benchpress at 172lbs body weight.

Deadlifting 400lbs 20 Times!

2008-05-21T18:00:00.000-07:00

Jody Cranston's deadlift performance at the Vancouver Trade and Convention Center where he deadlifts 400lbs twenty times! (175lbs bodyweight).

2007 WABDL Washington State Championships

2008-05-21T15:00:00.000-07:00

Robert O. Smith writes about my record setting bench press of 366lbs or double bodyweight lift on September 15, 2007.

My Pal. Jody Cranston benched a GREAT 366, double bodyweight lift, for a WABDL Canadian National record ! he lifted off in the bench for me all day, and then Deadlifted at the end of a very long day! ---plus he made the 5 hour drive home !! -- we had help from Starbucks Double espressos, and very loud 50's Elvis and Jerry Lee Lewis tunes on the road home!!

The Express Features Powerlifting

2008-05-20T22:39:00.000-07:00

Jody Cranston, Robert O Smith, and Nancy Carpenter are profiled on "The Express".

Cranston Sets New Powerlifting Standard

2008-05-20T22:30:00.000-07:00

Richmond's Jody Cranston pressed twice his weight to earn top marks
From the Richmond Review...
Cranston sets new powerlifting standard
Richmond's Jody Cranston set a WABDL Canadian Bench Press powerlifting record last weekend in Olympia, Washington .

The personal trainer pressed 358 pounds (twice his bodyweight) to earn first-place honours in his [181]-pound weight class.

Cranston was also victorious in the dead-lift portion of the tournament which qualifies him for the world championship to be held in Reno, Nevada this November.

Jody Cranston Sets Record at Great Northern Event in 2006

2008-05-20T22:00:00.000-07:00

WABDL Great Northern Bench Press and Deadlift Championship, Olympia, WA, 2006. Jody Cranston dead lifts 562lbs at a weight of 175lbs or 3 times his body weight.

Here he is bench pressing over 2 times body weight setting WABDL Bench Press Record 368lbs at 175lbs body weight.

Centennial Theatre Pumps Up The Volume

2008-05-20T21:50:00.000-07:00

From the North Shore News, Sunday March 26, 2006...
A brush with Fame: Centennial Theatre pumps up the volume with bodybuilding event

Jody Cranston is ready to lift until his legs bleed and his eyes pop out.

Of course he's exaggerating a bit, but the Canadian powerlifting record holder is set to grin and bear it when he tries to set a new powerlifting record at Fame West -- a figure, fitness, model and bodybuilding competition that comes to North Vancouver's Centennial Theatre April 1.

For the third consecutive year, the body beautiful has its prime showcase event here on the North Shore. Cranston, who has been powerlifting since 1993, will be one of the show's special performances. There's no question that

Cranston knows what he's doing, with past personal bests that include deadlifting a barbell weighing 520 pounds at a 144-lb body weight and 590 lbs at a 164-lb body weight. At the show, Cranston will be attempting to do as many repetitions as possible lifting a 500-lb weight. Last fall, Cranston successfully did 20 reps of 400 lb. ...

Click on the pictures to the right to see the full article.

Jody Makes Cover of UrbanTrendz

2008-05-20T21:46:00.000-07:00

Jody Makes the Friday September 2/05 cover of UrbanTrendz.

Fame West 2006

2008-05-20T19:45:00.000-07:00

Nancy Lockington, of Purely Natural Fitness, writes about my successful effort to deadlift 500lbs 9 times at Fame West, April 2006.

We had the pleasure of witnessing our Guest Performer, Jody Cranston's incredible strength by deadlifting 500lbs...9 times. A first time feat for Jody, and an excellent one at that!!

The entertainment continued when WNSO's 1st World Pro Fitness Champion, Ocean Bloom energizing the stage with her award winning routine. A true Pro in action!!!

I would like to thank the WNSO/FAME staff Chris Batista and Shannon Lucier for joining us in Vancouver to help provide a "top-notch" show.

In addition, the team of volunteers where definite an asset to the event and we couldn't have done it without them...thanks guys!!!

Thanks Nancy!

Jody Cranston Deadlifts 585lbs in Tacoma 2004

2008-05-20T19:44:00.000-07:00

Jody deadlifting 585lbs in Tacoma 2004...

Pictures

2008-05-19T21:55:00.000-07:00

Biography

2008-04-24T19:48:00.000-07:00

Jody Cranston

I am the owner of the Vancouver-based Highly Successful Fitness company, Powershape Personal Training, a Business I established in 1997.
________________________________________________________

WABDL Canadian National Records are:

148lbs. Division.-
Bench Press:303lbs. Deadlift: 515lbs. (My Best Deadlift in The 148lbs. Division is 520lbs.USPF).
165lbs. Division.-
Bench Press:330lbs. Deadlift: 590lbs.
181lbs. Division.-
Bench Press:375lbs. Deadlift: 585lbs.
-Gold Medal B.C. Winter Games: Powerlifting-
________________________________________________________

I have been featured on City TV's "Breakfast Television", Shaw TV's "The Express"(Sports Section),"The Richmond Review", "The Richmond News", "The Metro Vancouver", "The Province" and "The Vancouver Sun". I also write a Fitness Column for "Urban Trendz Magazine". Recently, I became a Co-Owner of "Oranj Dance and Fitness Spa" (oranjdance.com) in Kelowna where I exclusively developed : "The Cast Iron Indoor Power Bootcamp" , while continuing to train 16 to 20 people a day of all fitness levels in Vancouver.

The Main Focus of this Blog is Powerlifting Contests, Heavy Training Highlights (unfortunately I don't have time to Blog every work-out) and The Pantheon Strength Legion which meets once a Month for Heavy Deadlifts and Power Training. Hope you enjoy.
________________________________________________________

E-Mail: [powershape@hotmail.com]