I have been training for over 30 years, and it has gone through many phases. Initially I was entering highschool. I gained on my arms and shoulders fairly quickly. My bicep shape had peak so people asked me to flex frequently. My arms got up to 15.5. inches in highschool, and fellow students talked like I was jacked, lol. In my 20s I really got into the lifting as a student, it was my identity. It also aided in getting me laid, and feeling alpha. After university the game was changing. Guys advancing in their careers were getting the top girls. I didn't really care, I loved lifting for lifting. I worked some part time job and lifted with a group almost every night. We would go feast after training, and have some drinks.
One day a friend was trying out for a fitness test for policing. We all went to try out. My performance was terrible. I had no wind. I was in my late 20's at the time, and quickly realized the weight training I was doing wasn't helping me in real life. I wasn't fit enough to even pass a police physical, or fire fighter physical. I also had no idea on how to defend myself. I was stronger than the average Joe on the street but it had little practical application. My energy levels were also not the best which I needed for career and family. For the last 15 years I have been doing more structural integrity training. Lots of core, some compound, smooth and controlled. 2 times a week for an hour. At different times, I have practiced boxing, kickboxing, and some wrestling. I also row fairly intensely at home, cycle and play a few sports. The live for the gym lifestyle probably ended at around 30.
