Cesare Ricchezza, Level 7

[Bill Piche]

The GripBoard Proudly Certifies:

Cesare Ricchezza
GripBoard Mash Monster Level 7

This certification is granted by The GripBoard as an independent third party with no ethical or commercial conflict of interest.
The Mash Monster Gripper is one of a limited number supplied and controlled by The GripBoard.
The gripper is closed with one hand under strict and uniformly ethical and authenticated conditions.
This momentous feat was demonstrated on video to assure it will be valid for posterity.

 

Cesare mashes the GripBoard Mash Monster Gripper - Level 7

Mash Monster Profile

Name: Cesare Ricchezza
Age: 34
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 280lbs
Date of Feat: June 24, 2018
Witness: Anthony Clarino 
How Long Grip Training: Since July 2011
Current Grip Training Program: I train pinch, thick bar, wrist and grippers on separate days hitting each at least once every two weeks.
Other Training Info: I train regular weight lifting using various powerlifting programs.  
Other Info: 
Acknowledgements:  The Gripboard and all the admins who keep it running smoothly. Matt and Kristy Cannon for running Cannon Power Works and coordinating the MM certs. Anthony Clarino for being my cameraman. All my other friends on the gripboard for their constant support and motivation.  

 

Cesare Ricchezza, the 5th man in the world to close the Mash Monster Gripper - Level 7.

Interview with Cesare Ricchezza

Could you tell us a little about your background in lifting?

I was thin when I graduated from high school, but met 2 guys who were into weightlifting when I went away to college. They took me to the gym and I fell in love with the training. I started reading everything I could about weight training. Weight lifting is now a huge part of my life.

How did you get into grip training?

I was watching the “World’s Strongest Man” competition one year and they mentioned that Magnus Samuelsson is one of only 5 people who has certified on the captains of crush #4 gripper. I researched the grippers on the internet and ordered the #1 and #2 grippers. I closed both of these grippers on my first try and was amazed when other strong guys I knew couldn’t. I ordered the #2.5 and #3 right away. I was able to close the #2.5 on the first try but the #3 stopped me in my tracks. I was hooked at this point and made it my goal to certify on the #3 gripper. 

You are now a GripBoard Mash Monster, what would you recommend to those aspiring to close this gripper?

Experiment and learn what training routine works best for you. Make sure not to make the common mistake of overtraining. Always set small goals along the way to keep yourself motivated.

What does your current grip routine look like? 

I keep a regular workout log on the gripboard if anyone is interested in following my training and progress.

How has your grip routine changed since you first started training your grip?
When I first started training, I didn’t even have a routine. I was over training and not making much progress. I was obsessed and trying to crank out countless gripper reps every day.

There seems to be a significant variation in the frequency of grip workouts among trainees. Have you experimented with workout frequency and it’s affect on your training?

I experiment all the time. It keeps my training fresh and helps me bust through plateaus. When I find something that works, I stick with it until hitting another plateau. As I have progressed, the workouts have gotten more intense and I have needed more recovery time.  

What are your favorite grip exercises?
FBBC 2.5" crusher, Napalms Nightmare, the Flask and grippers of course. 

What kind of starting routine would you recommend for a trainee new to grip training?
I would lay out a schedule hitting essential exercises for thick bar, wrist, pinch and crush no more than once a week. stay with the big important movements in each category and then move to the accessory lifts. Also get on a weightlifting program like 5/3/1 etc. to maximize body strength to help with grip. 

Who do you most admire in gripdom?
There are way to many to mention all but here are a couple that really stand out: Paul Knight, Tim Struse, Andrew Durniat, Jedd Johnson, Aaron Corcorran, Chris Rice, Kody Burns and Gil Goodman.

If you were to start over again with your grip training, what would you do differently?

I would have followed a grip routine earlier.

What do you believe is the most difficult grip exercise?
For me it's thick bar. I have a hard time making progress with thick bar and grippers at the same time. 

What are some of your personal bests in grip exercises?
199.5 lb RGC COC #4 MMS close. 211 lb Euro pinch, 16 lb Sledge Face Lever, 8 lb sledge coin deadlift

What do you believe is the most common mistake made by new grip trainees?

Overtraining and not being patient when working towards goals.

What do you consider to be the greatest grip feats of all time?
Morgan's MM8 close, Andrew Duriant's 206 lb MMS gripper contest close record and Kody Burn's 2 Hand Pinch record. 

Do you have any parting advice for readers?

Attack your goals and never give up.

Back to the Mash Monsters Main

 

[Chez]

Thanks Bill!