Training Log: 2/28/14

Failure. It happens. I hate it. But it happens. When you're sick, you're sick, and sometimes things just don't go the way you plan. More information in the video below.

Texas Method C1W2D3:
Squat 1x5 325lbs (fail - 1x3)
Press 1x1 165lbs 
Cleans 5x3 165lbs (supposed to be 205)

I'm gonna try not to let failure get me down.

Stay Strong,
JB

Training Log: 2/26/14

Texas Method C1W2D2:
Squat 2x5 235 lbs
Bench 3x5 200 lbs
Back Extension 5x10 45 lbs
Chin Ups 3xF (7,8,7)

Not feeling too hot today. Nevertheless, got the workout in. I'm still not used to the massive (and I mean MASSIVE) lower back pump from the back extensions. I always walk out of the gym funny because it just feels so weird.

Stay Strong,
JB

People Are Worth It

Today I was reminded of why I want to go into the strength business in the first place. I love helping people. There was a lot of stuff going on with my friends today and it was one of those days when going to the gym and coaching the girls was just a really good way to talk and help them through some stuff.

If your main goal is to make money, don't become a coach. If your main goal is to get famous, don't become a coach. If your main goal is even just to raise a person's back squat, don't become a coach.

Coaches are there to help people live better lives. If you lose sight of that, you will have failed as a strength coach. It's all about the big picture. This is more than just lifting weights.

Be there for people. Show love and compassion. The best kind of strength is strength of heart.

Stay Strong,
JB

Training Log: 2/24/14

Texas Method C1W2D1:
Squat 5x5 295 lbs
OHP 5x5 120 lbs
Deadlift 1x5 350 lbs

Volume kills, man. By set 5 of my squats, I was showing some really sloppy form, but I was able to push through and hit every rep through a full range of motion. My eyes were bloodshot by the end of it all and I probably looked like a deranged Sith Lord, but, oh well.

I was super tired today. I did not get enough sleep over the weekend due to a lot of factors like weather change and stress. Today was just weird. It was a good day for the most part, but I just felt really off for most of it. I definitely felt much better after the workout though. There's something about heavy deadlifts that just feels magical.

Tangent Warning: Also, feelings are stupid sometimes. Squats and deadlifts may try and break you, but they'll never send your emotions into a turmoil like women will. Gah. Women. That's all I have to say about that.

Keep grinding, and may your squats always feel light.

Stay Strong,
JB

Training Log 2/22/14

At some point, you become advanced enough where following a program straight from the template is not the best thing to do. At that point, you have to know where your own weaknesses are and attack them and avoid burning yourself out as well.

I've known for a while that my back is my weakest link, so I took today to do some moderate accessory work. Of course I DO NOT want to burn myself out, especially in the first week of a new program. BUT, if I neglect my upper back, I'll be leaving pounds on the bar when it's competition time.

Texas Method C1W1D4:
Barbell Row 2x5 175 lbs
Good Morning 2x5 205 lbs
Power Shrug 2x5 385 lbs
Chin Ups 2x5 45 lbs

Everything except the power shrugs were kept to a moderate weight. I admit I got a little excited and went for some decently heavy shrugs. I would say the effort those took would be an 8.5/10. Everything else, the intensity was more like a 7/10, which is what I was going for.

I have got to make sure I get enough food, stretch out well, and get a solid sleep tonight if I want to be ready for volume day again on Monday. Hopefully that will work out well and I can continue to work back accessories on Saturdays.

Attack your weaknesses.

Stay Strong,
JB