New Personal Bests

I’m getting much stronger and hitting new personal bests, thanks to my new Rippetoe-powered workout. I’ve probably been doing some form of weightlifting for about 6 years now, and in all of that time I’ve never thought to seriously sit down and read some quality weightlifting literature, until very recently (literally about 2 months ago).

For the first time, I know that every workout I’m doing is benefitting both my physique and my strength, and I know how the science works behind my routine. The confidence in the gym and motivation to workout is amazing, and I owe it all of two of the best books that I’ve ever read in my life: Practical Programming and Starting Strength.

Now for some numbers. Two days ago, I benched more weight (and it felt relatively easy) that I ever have in my entire life (220 pounds for 3 sets of 5). The two books mentioned above have provided valuable insight into the basic mechanics of the bench press, and I’ve made two significant corrections (breathing first at the lockout and keeping my eyes focused on a point on the ceiling) that have made the bench much easier for me. Next week, I’m putting 225 on the bar and going for 3 sets of 5 at a bodyweight of about 162.

I’ve experienced similar progress in the deadlift and squat, and I’ll be posting about those later.