Utilizing the anti-glycolytic approach does not mean glycolysis isn’t happening. That would be impossible. Rather, it seeks to minimize and “dose” the glycolysis. Even within the standard AXE sessions, they are structured so that the acid is minimal, allowing the system to build the capacity to more easily clear and handle waste products, etc.

Every so often, however, the system benefits from an “acid bath” glycolytic session.

How often?

After establishing a base of three months of AXE training, introducing a shocking session twice a month (once every two weeks) is sufficient. And if your sport or job is glycolytic in nature, you might not need any or just one, at most, a month at a time.

How do you do it?

It should be simple, brief, and not red line the heart rate (do not exceed 90% of max HR).

Enter the “Double Espresso”—your standard AXE session with double the density.

If you are swinging the 24kg kettlebell for sets of 6 on the minute, then you will perform your sets of 6 every thirty seconds in your Double Espresso session. Obeying the first three StrongFirst Stop Signs for speed, tempo, and technique, but not the talk test or muscle “burn.”

The session will be shorter than your standard sessions, as you will reach one of the first three stop signs far faster than in your regular AXE work.

This shock to the system allows you to get comfortable being uncomfortable, but don’t forget the second part of the “Double Espresso.”

After the first series of sets and resting longer than it takes to pass the talk test (heart rate dropping to 60-65% max), you will perform another series of sets for a second shock. (It may be even shorter than the first series.)

Double the density but also double the shock.

This frequently overlooked aspect of Kettlebell Axe and anti-glycolytic training is why you should revisit the book and see what else you may have missed.