Topic: Training/Learning

[DougChin]

Jesse,
I am know exactly how you feel with the weights we are both breaking in with.  I am used to walking into most gyms and being the strongest guy there, even as a 198 powerlifter.  Now, I feel weak and spastic!  A few days ago I tried Overhead Snatch Grip Squats (I am not sure what the proper name is) and after struggling a few sets with just the bar, I finally figured I had it down.  I slapped on some 25s (95 total) and though it was shaky, I was still able to complete a few easy sets.  So why not slap on some more?  With 135 on the bar,  I unracked and started the descent.....halfway down it felt very unstable and started to fall forward, so  I squatted up and tried to save it......and in the process smashed my pinky on the rack pin....OUCH!  End of workout.  In a week I think I will have one less fingernail to clip.  It is most humbling, but I am not going to give up so easy.  Of course, next time I won't take such weight jumps!

[Jesse Gibson]

Did some stretching and a little bit of work with the broomstick this weekend... felt a smidge positive, but...

Power Clean: 145x5
                   195x5
                   205x3
                   215x3
                   235x2 (still not getting racked correctly... pissed)

Push Press: 145x3
                 235x1
                 250x1
                 260x1

FS wrist stretches (as above): 5 times for 10 sec holds

FS (very light, just to stretch a bit... still using crossed arms style): 145x5
                                                                                            235x3

I'll stretch tonight. I must say, I am getting discouraged. I cannot drop a lick under those cleans... geez... but I will continue to try. A friend tells me to be patient and it will come. Perhaps when I start training at home it will get easier as this is crushing my ego at the gym... I need some plates (bumpers). Pendlay?


                 

[Andy Dick]

Stick with it man remember as Jim and I have said it takes time.  Just be diligent with it.  If you stretch in the evening try holding the stretch nice a long to let that muscle really relax and continue to work deeper in the stretch.  As hard as it may sound take deep breaths and try to relax to help your muscles relax and work the stretch.  It took me a good month I think to get my flexibility up.

[Jesse Gibson]

Thanks for the encouragement, I need it!   

I think I'll stretch some before I hit the rack.

Going to get some bumpers tomorrow

[michael cooley]

I have always been of the Aristotelean belief that "well begun is half done".

Okay, now I'm really embarrassed.  Having spent the last several years (including the present day) watching Disney movies with my kids, I always thought that line was originated by Mary Poppins.   

Aristotle?  I need to read more. 

The advice you're getting above is sound.  Keep at it, and keep working the flexibility.  It'll come.  Especially work those static stretches.  Front squats are a perfect opportunity.  Don't do them with arms crossed if you can possibly help it.  Let the heavier weight help push you into position. 

As a one-time powerlifter who converted to weightlifting years ago and never looked back, let me offer one piece of advice.  Don't neglect your strength work while you're learning the lifts.  I did, and promptly lost a tremendous well of raw strength that took a few years to build back up again.  Keep your strength training up (and least in a maintenance capacity).  That way, when the flexibility and technique start to click for you (and they will), you'll still have the strength base at your disposal. 

When that day comes, the weights will fly.

Best,

mpc

[Jesse Gibson]

Michael:

I read it many years ago in "De Politica". As you know it is a transliteration of what Aristotle stated. IIRC, he was actually quoting a proverb.

I was an oddball in college 5'7",  308, and a Philosophy Major.

I will add in some stuff to keep my strength up. As for the front squats, to get into the stretches, I have to lean WAY back (arch). I suspect I'd fall flat if I tried to squat but I am getting a bit better, maybe...

[Jim Hooper]

Jesse,

Do you have access to a pair of kettlebells?  If so I'll pass on a couple of great flexibility developing moves you can do that work well and will give you some variety as you plow through the intial frustrating stages.  (Many of us have been there -- persist.)

[Jesse Gibson]

Sorry Jim, I sure don't. 

I actually passed some today. I drove up to Booneville Indiana and bought some bumpers, six 45s and two 35s. The 45s are used but I got them for 50 bucks a pair, they are Hi-Temp. The 35s are new still in wraps, they are Kraiburg and were also 50 bucks a pair.

He asked if I wanted some kettlebells, but I didn't get them. I guess I should have gotten at least one.

I am in my apt. practicing C&J with a broom stick. Can you imagine my neighbor under me (upstairs apt.)? This woman has got to think the world is ending! My 308 pounds slamming into the floor....