![Lying Down and Getting Up with a Barbell [1916]](https://simplexstrong.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/dumbbell-gert-up-lebedev-eavy-athletics.jpg)
This movement develops an athlete’s agility and flexibility and, at the same time, teaches them to maintain balance. It is performed as follows:
While holding a barbell with an extended arm above the head, lower yourself onto the opposite knee, using the palm of your free hand for support on the floor. Then, move from the palm to the elbow, simultaneously straightening the leg on the same side along the floor, while the other leg remains bent at the knee. Next, lower yourself from the elbow to the floor with both shoulder blades touching and stretch out both legs, keeping the barbell held with the extended arm.
![Thomas Inch’s Dumbbell Get-Up Tutorial [1905]](https://simplexstrong.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/thomas-inch-dumbbell-get-up-1905-1080x630.jpg)
This is so far the oldest oldest get-up tutorial I have been able to find, from Thomas Inch’ Scientific Weight Lifting, published in 1905. The book opens with following motto:
“The Glory of a Man is in his Strength. Be Strong.”
…and as all Kettlebell Simple & Sinister practitioners know, the get-up is one of the best means to move well, and move STRONG!
Inch teaches a common old-school strongman variation of get-down to get-up, and with a dumbbell.
“Russian Lion” George Hackenschmidt, legendary strongman and wrestler, was truly an all-round lifter. He used barbells, dummbells, and kettlebells, and practiced all kinds of grinds and quick lifts.
Lying down and rising with dumb-bell. Hold the bell overhead, right hand. Bend both knees, place left hand on the floor a little to the rear, extend the left leg forward and sit down. Now extend right leg, bending left arm until you are resting on the elbow. Lean slowly backwards to prone position.
