Nest of Giants

Recently I was asked how I began coaching Strongman. My response took me down memory lane. 

In 2017 my friends invited me on a trip to Iceland to explore and take a course they taught called “Masters of Movement”. During this time we had the opportunity to train with all the greatest coaches in the country. One being the legendary Magnús Ver Magnússon, a Four Time World Strongest Man Champion. 

I will never forget walking up to Magnus’s gym. It was located underneath an old rundown supermarket that had a long set of stairs leading to what seemed like a dungeon. There was a sign on the door that said “Jackabol” which means “Nest of Giants”.  

I was instantly terrified. 

Once we arrived at the bottom of the stairs we were surrounded by cases of trophies, medals, and pictures celebrating crazy Strongman feats! Then Magnus appeared. Maggie!!  “My friend exclaimed”….”I missed you!” 

This is when I witnessed the kindest, sweetest, most gentle giant you will ever meet. 

Magnus gave us a tour of his gym. Most of the Strongman equipment was handmade and welded himself. There was a huge ship bollard used for carrying, giant stones of all sizes, massive yokes, and enormous farmer handles easily 150 per handle unloaded. 

Over the course of 2 days Magnus coached us through each and every implement he had in his gym. Magnus made training accessible for everyone, simple, and very interesting. 

I was 100% sold on Strongman Training. 

As soon as I got home I searched for the best Strongman training gym in Los Angeles. The next thing I know I was signed up for STRONGMAN 101 at DEUCE Gym with coach Emily. During this course I fell even more in love with Strongman training. 

I took the course over and over learning something new each time. (Still learning) I had so much fun during these courses I knew I needed to share Strongman with anyone curious to learn and try something new.