This is a quick overview of how most search and rescue (SAR) missions are caused - or made worse - by a lack of preparedness. It is by no means an exhaustive analysis, but basic generalizations based on my nine years as a SAR member. Just the simple act of realistically checking oneself for preparedness in these areas before venturing out into the wild would greatly decrease the odds of needing rescue, or make any unexpected overnight events much more pleasant.
Two 5-rep cluster sets (roughly 20 seconds between each rep, and three minutes between sets) with weight equal to my one rep max set in early January. Note that every rep is a full Zercher pulled from the floor and returned there, so I get the grip workout of double-overhand deadlifts as well. I originally planned on three sets, but the second set was a real grind and my form was breaking down, so I decided to play it safe. Next time I'll keep the weight the same but try for more reps with good form. Last year at this time I rarely managed over 200. If I can keep progressing safely this could possibly be the year I hit a 300 pound Zercher squat pulled from the floor. I realize this is still weak by the standards of many lifters, but for me it shows significant improvement, especially considering how messed up my back was five years ago.
Some off-the-cuff rambling updates on life and this channel, offered up during my morning commute. This is just some of it; life has been very busy and very stressful lately. I'm cautiously optimistic that things will slow down soon and allow me a little more leisure time, but we'll see how that plays out.
Notice the traffic on my commute. That's just one of the many benefits of country living. The drive actually offers a chance to relax, enjoy the scenery, and get away from some of the daily stress. I'm so thankful that I don't have rush-hour traffic to deal with on top of everything else!
A viewer requested more info about the snowshoes. I thought that was a great idea and am happy to oblige. So far I love the 'shoes. I plan to get a lot more use under differing conditions, but I really doubt my opinion will change.
As I noted, I think the price is crazy right now, but hopefully they will drop substantially in the summer (at least if our economy and supply chain don't completely implode by then).
amazon.com/Tubbs-Mens-Flex-Backcountry-Snowshoes/dp/B07W6XSM73
This is a collection of a few tips regarding winter car preparedness that I filmed while waiting for my coffee to perk after camping out overnight. My tips focus on things that mainstream sources don't usually mention, and they are primarily appropriate for remote areas that get a fair amount of snow and have a lot of trees.
This is my most-viewed video on YouTube, from way back in 2019.
Only 105 pounds, and only a few minutes, but boy did it hurt!
This is a great way to have a full-body workout and a near-death experience simultaneously.
3/22/19
This is a looong talk (rant?) about the lies and other deceptive tactics used by various closely-coordinating parties to advance their narrative and silence any dissent. The lies are relentless and still continuing at this moment. Unfortunately, many people docilely accept this drivel and don't even think to question blatantly false or rapidly-changing statements that are presented as absolutes by "authorities" or "experts". Please share this video with anyone who might be on the fence or slightly receptive to the idea that we are being lied to. We need more people to think logically and see through the smoke and mirrors.
https://odysee.com/@RepublicJim:a/PfizerDefinition:8 - vaccine failure video
https://openvaers.com/covid-data - adverse events reports
These tools are excellent, both for getting work done quietly and without pollution, and also as a form of exercise.
I do have many video topics planned to post soon as I have the time and energy, but I wanted to do this quick update on how I have been fitting in exercise when too busy for "conventional" methods.
My Sunday afternoon workout in a barn that was actually above freezing. This made a nice change from the boring routine of standard big compound lifts three days per week. While still too weak on stones and carries, I'm making gradual progress. At one time I used to struggle to lift a 125 pound stone onto a three tire platform, and to carry 130 pounds per hand for any distance.
Note that I realize this workout's "cardio" belongs in quotes, but I didn't feel like making air quotes while speaking. It was mostly a tongue-in-cheek reference to the meatheads who say, "Anything over five reps is cardio, bro!" Rest assured I also do conventional cardio sessions for heart and lung health.
This was an overnight campout on our upper acreage just to get out in the woods and practice shelter-building and fire-starting skills. It was unusually warm for the end of January, but it snowed steadily all night and everything was covered in wet snow. Gathering firewood by the light of a headlamp and getting the fire established when the wood was all soaked made for an interesting challenge. It was also good practice setting up the tarp shelter and building my raised bed. All in all it was a fun and comfortable - but very physically tiring - overnight expedition.
Sorry about the sound quality. I'm still trying to figure out audio issues in my videos. Turn up the volume, or just ignore my rambling commentary and enjoy the scenery.