1% Better Every Day

Ricky Lundell, in his first in a series of manual/guides, reveals the technical mastery of squats, uncovering the mind-body-spirit partnership, as well as keys to life success through his 1% Better Every Day philosophy. While pursuing a "throw down the gauntlet" objective of squatting a phenomenal 500 pounds in 500 days, this insight was internalized. At the time, Ricky was squatting 275 pounds/125 kilos, weighing 155 pounds/70 kilos. Accomplishing so many physical feats in his life (Black Belt Gi Gracie Jiu-Jitsu World Champion, 2006; FILA World Champion Grappler and Captain of Team U.S.A., 2007; FILA Grappling Gold Medalist and Pankration World Champion, 2008; FILA World Grappling Champion and Absolute Division Pankration World Grappling Champion, 2010) this new challenge measured up to be a world-class achievement. In his series, while you follow his fantastic training methods, ponder with him his 1% Better Every Day philosophy. Whether you are a 14-year old trying to make the JV Basketball team or a 57-year old, dealing with chronic pain, you will reach your own personal "peaks" by committing to his personally tested and proven winning work-out plan.

Ricky Lundell, in his first in a series of manual/guides, reveals the technical mastery of squats, uncovering the mind-body-spirit partnership, as well as keys to life success through his 1% Better Every Day philosophy. While pursuing a "throw down the gauntlet" objective of squatting a phenomenal 500 pounds in 500 days, this insight was internalized. At the time, Ricky was squatting 275 pounds/125 kilos, weighing 155 pounds/70 kilos. Accomplishing so many physical feats in his life (Black Belt Gi Gracie Jiu-Jitsu World Champion, 2006; FILA World Champion Grappler and Captain of Team U.S.A., 2007; FILA Grappling Gold Medalist and Pankration World Champion, 2008; FILA World Grappling Champion and Absolute Division World Grappling Champion, 2010) this new squatting challenge measured up to be a world class achievement. Ricky's intention with the 500 pounds in 500 days was to prove to himself that he could achieve something great, something lasting, not by quick hacks or overnight solutions, but by gradual small improvements. Day 500 of his self-imposed objective, he squatted 610 pounds/277 kilos; one of the most exciting days of his life, the feeling of unconditional support from his fellow lifters was delicious. Intoxicating. Spiritual. Pleased with the strength of his body. Surprised to be pain-free for the first time in many years. Humbled by the generosity of spirit from his fellow lifters. Gratified by exceeding his pledge of lifting more than 500 pounds/227 kilos in 500 days, despite tremendous life challenges. All these outcomes exceeded his expectations. But nothing could compare with the greatest benefit he internalized from his squatting experience--the knowledge that striving to be 1% Better Every Day is transformational. In his series, while you follow his fantastic training methods, ponder the 1% Better Every Day philosophy. Whether you are a 14-year old trying to make the JV Basketball team or a 57-year old, dealing with chronic pain, you will reach your own personal "peaks" by committing to his personally tested and proven winning work-out plan.

Ricky Lundell is the youngest North American to receive the rank of Black Belt in Gracie (Brazilian) Jiu-Jitsu. His training began at the age of six under Pedro Sauer (8th Degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Coral Belt under legendary Grand Master Helio Gracie and Master Rickson Gracie), earning his black belt by age 19. Currently, he is a 4th degree Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, the youngest to achieve this honor by age 31. Ricky Lundell trains some of the world's most elite MMA fighters and World Champions in Las Vegas, Nevada. He serves as the head wrestling coach for national powerhouse Bishop Gorman High School. He is a strategy coach and head trainer for MMA at the University of Grappling, offering affiliate opportunities for gyms to specialize in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, or wrestling. Ricky has been voted Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Instructor of The Year from 2012-2017. A motivational speaker, Ricky shares his 1% Better Every Day philosophy with groups looking to improve in any area. This philosophy came about while he was planning how to squat 500 lbs/227 kg in 500 days. He knew he was capable of doing a little better every day, about 1%, but no more. Resonating in his spirit, this powerful, yet simple life philosophy spoke to everyone, no matter what age they were, what skill level, or what challenge they were facing. Five hundred days of measurable squatting progress made it easy to show the remarkable results of what 1% Better Every Day could do, everything from cultivating team building, increasing sales, improving relationships, to providing structure for facing personal challenges. However, 1% Better Every Day is not just a catchy phrase, it is eternal truth. Ricky has been coaching the 1% philosophy throughout his career but only recently discovered the right words to reach truth seekers everywhere striving to live their best life, as he completed his challenge of squatting 500 lbs/227 kg in 500 days. In fact, he actually squatted 610 lbs/277 kg on day 500, 110 lbs/50 kg more than his initial goal, following the 1% Better Every Day mantra.