In the heart of Claremont, just steps away from Wen Gym, a unique fusion of ancient strength training and modern fitness tracking is taking shape.
In a charismatic new video, fitness influencer Larry collaborates with Ali from Powerhouse Persia to explore the time-tested tools of Persian warriors — massive clubs, meels, shields, and unconventional resistance devices used in warrior conditioning for thousands of years. But can today’s lifters handle them?
From scorching shoulder mobility drills to 85-pound swinging shields and 100-pound clubs, this unconventional training session is a visceral reminder that functional strength goes beyond typical gym lifts.
Along the way, viewers also get a taste of tech-meets-nutrition with the FitHub macro-tracking app and a behind-the-scenes look at upcoming workout technology — including the intelligent AMP machine. Here’s everything you need to know about one of the most eye-opening strength sessions online right now.
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Ancient Tools of Strength That Will Humble Even the Strongest Lifters
Ali, the charismatic coach behind Powerhouse Persia, revives the strength traditions passed down to him by his father. These tools — more art than apparatus — were used for centuries by Persian warriors to build stamina, flexibility, and explosive force. Unlike barbells or dumbbells, these devices move in 3D, forcing your body to engage every stabilizer, tendon, and fiber through rotational strength and endurance-based movements.
“Before doing anything with the Persian clubs,” Ali says, “we start by warming up the upper body, shoulders, and scapula. This protects the joint health and prepares the body for the demanding work ahead.”
From there, the workout escalates rapidly as Ali introduces:
- 50-lb Meels (Clubs): Used for hundreds of reps over extended periods. Ali, weighing 160 lbs, has completed 15-minute and even 8-hour continuous meel sessions.
- Lighter Clubs (15–35 lbs): Designed to train rhythm and timing. The flowing, circular movements mimic sword and shield combat scenarios.
- Cap Body Shield: Weighing roughly 40–85 lbs, this tool is swung close to the face in dynamic arcs, training grip, shoulder strength, and intense core control.
“You don’t have to be huge like me to be strong and functional,” Larry jokes after seeing Ali masterfully manipulate the 85-lb shield. “This just shows how much power you can hide in a compact frame.”
This Is Not Your Gym’s Shoulder Routine
Despite his 260-pound frame and years of traditional lifting and arm wrestling, Larry finds himself humbled by the unique coordination and shoulder resilience this style demands. Simply holding the clubs in a static position tests endurance.
What’s even more impressive? Ali mentions injuries are rare — but only when proper technique and sequencing are followed strictly, underlining the importance of precision with these ancient tools.
Key Training Benefits from These Tools Include:
- Superior grip and forearm development from repeated swinging motions
- Scapular and shoulder mobility that’s hard to replicate with machines
- Core and trunk integration during every movement
- Mental endurance from long-duration, repetitive movements
These aren’t just tools — they’re a philosophy of training rooted in discipline, tradition, and mastery over time.
Keeping Nutrition in Check on the Go
Before the workout, Larry heads into Dr. Grubbs, a standout local spot known as the only meal-prep friendly restaurant in Claremont. With competition prep just seven weeks away, Larry opts for flat iron steak with white rice — a staple clean bodybuilding meal.
“This place is super convenient,” he says. “It’s only a minute away from the gym, and they’ve been serving bodybuilders here for nearly a year now.”
However, because Dr. Grubbs doesn’t weigh your food, Larry turns to the FitHub App to bridge the gap. Using AI image recognition, the app estimates macros based on a quick photo:
- Steak estimated at 150g (actual 170g)
- Rice estimated at 84g of carbs for what’s probably a 90g portion
- Even the herbs on the plate are factored in
“It’s not 100%,” he admits, “but scary accurate — close enough to track prep perfectly when you’re out.”
High-Tech Meets Classic Gains: The AMP Machine
As the video rounds out, Larry introduces one of the most innovative home gym tools on the market: the AMP machine. Combining AI, smart resistance, and personalized video coaching, it resembles the future of connected strength training.
Highlights include:
- Bluetooth-connected app that auto-adjusts resistance and rep speed
- Rep and tempo tracking in real time
- Resistance modes like Amplify (greater eccentric load) or Band (smooth tension)
- Video demos and AI-generated workouts with options to train directly with Larry
“This isn’t just a bicep curl,” Larry explains, while demonstrating a T-bar setup. “The machine adjusts to my tempo, guides my form, and even tells me how long to rest before the next set. It’s every lifter’s training partner rolled into one.”
Why This Matters: Tradition, Tech, and the Future of Strength
Across cultures and eras, strength training has always been more than lifting heavy things — it’s a representation of discipline and survival. From ancient Persian warriors swinging clubs for hours under the desert sun, to modern competitors pushing boundaries with AI-powered machines, the goal remains the same: Pursue excellence one rep at a time.
Whether you’re exploring ancient training philosophies or unlocking new ways to train efficiently with AI, one truth stands out: consistency, curiosity, and hard work always win.
