York Barbell System of Training Charts circa 1938

I recently stumbled on some old copies of "York Barbell System of Training" exercise charts that my grandfather had purchased new back in the late 1930’s to early 1940’s. These charts offer a glimpse back to the infancy of weight training and how it evolved from a time when fitness equipment choices were little more than adjustable barbells and dumbbells. As you will see, some of the exercise names and even the form in which some of them were executed has greatly changed. Check back often in the coming weeks to see more charts as we post them. Enjoy!

Special thanks to my Grandfather, Arthur Kirch, for inspiring me to pick up my first barbell back in the 1980’s. It is because of you that I was able to follow my passion and dreams. Love you and miss you.

J.P. Brice – President, IRON COMPANY