After workout #1 my legs were locking up, I could barely sleep. Took three days off – my body needed rest. I had to up my nutrition, took in more carbs. Tip: You want to make sure your body’s fully loaded, like a full tank of gas, before you get under that massive weight.
Today, 350 was more challenging physically, but mentally it was easier. The breathing came into play more on this workout. I went into deeper visualization. Mentally it’s all coming back to me.
Squats are very draining, they employ every muscle. But they drain the mind, too. You have to think of everything: positioning, stance, the response of your knee joints every second. You have to suck in the oxygen as you go down – if you don’t it can throw you off.
This is an art form. Precision, focus, vision, balance. It could all go wrong in a split second, so you need to be fully present and inspired.
My lower lumbar is compressed, hurts on the left side. My overall legs hurt. Leg wraps would make it easier, but I’m doing without them cause the goal is building and strengthening the ligaments and tissues needed to support the squat.
No cardio either. This is about strength in legs. A poorly-timed cardio workout can weaken your legs, but it’s not just about legs. Squats drain your whole body. I’ve been staying away from cardio. You can do light cardio on off days, but take it easy. No cardio 24 hours prior to your squat workout.
I’ve NEVER squatted 500 lbs clean – this is an adventure and I’m strategizing the course so I don’t get hurt. One wrong move, not enough rest or nutrition, and it’s all over. I’m at war and I refuse to lose.You asked about Smith machine for squats. Smith machine for shoulders, yes, but not squats. I would never bench on a Smith machine, and I would never squat on one. Free weights for big muscle groups builds overall size and a balanced feeling.
You asked about shoes. Mine are Prada. Old school Converse Chuck Taylors work fine, too, and are a lot more affordable. The key is, closer to the ground the better. My Pradas give no support, so they work great. I used to rock it out barefoot. Most gyms don’t want you doing that these days.
The plan is about three workouts a week going forward. Stay with me and keep the questions and comments flowing. There’s power in doing this as a group, and I know I always do better with that camera on me, knowing you’re watching. Go make your video, too, nothing would fire me up more.
Is he still claiming to be clean??.. i thought after the bench challenge he was goin to UP IT UP a notch
