FAQ
Are you a Starting Strength Coach?
No. Even though I am familiar with and like aspects of the method, I've decided I won't pursue a SSC certification in the foreseeable future.
When I first came across Starting Strength I decided I wanted to become a Starting Strength Coach. Following the Novice Linear Progression and getting into barbell training where defining events in my life. So for a time I was committed to the method: I've read all the books front to back and I've traveled down to Brussels to train under the only SSC in Europe a couple of times as well.
I'm confident when I say I understand the model.
However, a few years down the line I've come to the realization that, not only is the certificate financially and practically unobtainable for now, but also that my current vieuws on coaching and training don't quite align with that of Starting Strength anymore.
That's not to say "I know better": there is always the possibility that more experience will bring me back 'round.
I owe Mark Rippetoe and Starting Strength a lot: my method of coaching the big lifts is to beginners is almost entirely the same, and my own beginner program borrows a lot from the Starting Strength Model as well, though it's vastly different in more than a few aspects.
If you're interested in following the Starting Strength Novice Linear Progression let me know. I may be able to help.