Matt's Journey to 5%--RX Muscle/Species Arnold Challenge

[Down4whatever]

Some of my favorites from bulking:

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/005-7.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/001-14.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/005-6.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/001-11.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/001-10.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/001-9.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/002-5.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/001-4.jpg

[bigdaddyd]

your killing me man....

So can you reveal how your fish looks so good? I hate fish but eat it and so far I can't seem to make it very well. Can't stand fishy fish

[Down4whatever]

your killing me man....

So can you reveal how your fish looks so good? I hate fish but eat it and so far I can't seem to make it very well. Can't stand fishy fish

All I can think of is just basic directions and seasoning--that and I only eat tilapia......and canned tuna as far as fish is concerned.

- only thaw fish maximum 4 days before cooking
- bake in glass dish with Pam cooking spray
- Oven temp 355 for 20-25 minutes based on how many pieces
- only basic seasoning--garlic sea salt and cayenne pepper usually

Any of that sound like something you don't do?? :dunno:

[bigdaddyd]

All I can think of is just basic directions and seasoning--that and I only eat tilapia......and canned tuna as far as fish is concerned.

- only thaw fish maximum 4 days before cooking
- bake in glass dish with Pam cooking spray
- Oven temp 355 for 20-25 minutes based on how many pieces
- only basic seasoning--garlic sea salt and cayenne pepper usually

Any of that sound like something you don't do?? :dunno:
Originally I tried that but it must have been cheap fish because it tasted terrible. We started grilling it which was better but probably 75% of the fish tasted terrible fishy so I stopped trying.

Then we went fresh fish but that gets costly.

[Down4whatever]

After months of deliberation, I have come to the conclusion that the following song is my number 1 favorite song of all time. Not many people can nail down just one song, but I finally did it!!!!!!!! :yep::yep::yep::yep:

Gifts can be sent to my home address. :D

YouTube- Hydroponic

[blu2xtreme]

I would be interested in how you narrowed it down to this song:confused:

I think I could narrow it down to about 10 all times Faves ...
some could be used against me if ever listed:p

[Down4whatever]

I would be interested in how you narrowed it down to this song:confused:

I think I could narrow it down to about 10 all times Faves ...
some could be used against me if ever listed:p

Well, I've listened to this song probably 1,500 times (literally)in the last 12 years and I don't tire of listening to it.....I know it's not even a popular song, but I absolutely LOVE it! Most songs get stale at 500 at least :D

[blu2xtreme]

Well, I've listened to this song probably 1,500 times (literally)in the last 12 years and I don't tire of listening to it.....I know it's not even a popular song, but I absolutely LOVE it! Most songs get stale at 500 at least :D

I get stuck on a song and will sometimes play the same song over and over the whole work out ...every work out for days
I did that with Nickelbacks - S.E.X. now I haven't listened to it in months

[Down4whatever]

Here's our Company's 'Tip of the Day' for wellness......can't believe these people get paid to send this stuff around....


Working in, working out. You've been working hard to get in shape, so be careful not to let it slide during the busy holiday season. It is a lot harder to regain what you lost in January than it is to maintain what you have now! The best tactic for this time of the year is "Do what you can!" If you've been jogging every other day for 40 minutes, cut back to 15. If you weight train 3 times a week doing 3 sets of each exercise, cut back to 1 set twice a week. If that gets to be too much try to get at least 10-15 minutes of some kind of activity daily. By pumping up your intensity levels you'll make up for the shorter times. For example, on a stationary bike you can alternate 1 minute of intense pedaling with 1 minute of recovery for 10 minutes. You can circuit train...moving quickly from one weight machine to the next with no break. You'll get both a weight training and cardio workout in one!

Don't go to a gym? Do it at home. Run in place for 1 minute, then do 10 push ups, run again then switch to squats, run a minute, follow with crunches.....you get the idea. Trust us, you'll be much happier in January when you don't have to start over!

[gman]

So their actually telling you to exercise less during the holidays?!

Incredible

[fatbackgoal]

Have not checked in for a while so wanted to see how you are doing and say keep it up. My work is the same way. You get an incentive on your health care if you stop smoking but nothing for getting in better shape.

[Down4whatever]

So their actually telling you to exercise less during the holidays?!

Incredible

I have a better tip, but I don't think they want me publishing anything for them:


Matt's Tip of the Day for Wellness

Having trouble getting your weight training and cardio completed due to the busy holiday season? Here's an idea to help you along......GET THE FUCK UP 30 MINUTES EARLIER YOU LAZY FUCK. Thank you, that is all.

[gman]

You forgot the other tip Matt:

Stop stuffing your fucking face with fast food, chips, twinkies and ice cream

[Down4whatever]

You forgot the other tip Matt:

Stop stuffing your fucking face with fast food, chips, twinkies and ice cream

LOL, we should start our own outsourced 'Corporate Wellness Department' for hire :D

[Down4whatever]

I'm having a little trouble with recovery right now and I think it has everything to do with inadequate nutrition, i.e. calorie deficit. Now, the calorie deficit is necessary, but is there anything you guys or gals supplement with to aid in recovery?

My hamstrings and calves are still sore right now from Monday and my triceps are pretty sore from Tuesday. The other option is to do nothing as it's not a bad sore, just noticeable. I usually don't have trouble with recovery.

I take the following already:

1-2 scoops whey daily **I believe this has glutamine
Multivitamin (ON Performaxx)
Xtend daily after cardio (2 scoops) **maybe another serving would help
Nordrenalean HSL **fat burner twice daily


I'd rather not supplement with creatine, but if it will help, I'm open to considering it.

[gman]

I am pretty sure glutamine is what you need. Maybe baldie can tell us.

[blu2xtreme]

I'm having a little trouble with recovery right now and I think it has everything to do with inadequate nutrition, i.e. calorie deficit. Now, the calorie deficit is necessary, but is there anything you guys or gals supplement with to aid in recovery?

My hamstrings and calves are still sore right now from Monday and my triceps are pretty sore from Tuesday. The other option is to do nothing as it's not a bad sore, just noticeable. I usually don't have trouble with recovery.

I take the following already:

1-2 scoops whey daily **I believe this has glutamine
Multivitamin (ON Performaxx)
Xtend daily after cardio (2 scoops) **maybe another serving would help
Nordrenalean HSL **fat burner twice daily


I'd rather not supplement with creatine, but if it will help, I'm open to considering it.

Since I use 2 scoops of xtend I would think you would need more for sure
My lifting is no where close to as intense as you guys but I feel a definite difference when I don't use xtend.

[freebirdmac]

I take a scoop of glutamine pre- and post-workout along with BCAAs (which you get in Xtend). On nontraining days I'll still take 1 scoop of each. Increasing protein a bit more may also help.

[tifflex]

I take a scoop of glutamine pre- and post-workout along with BCAAs (which you get in Xtend). On nontraining days I'll still take 1 scoop of each. Increasing protein a bit more may also help.
I agree with Pam. You may also want to do 1-2 clean refeeds a week.

[bigdaddyd]

checking in buddy.

I have to tell you I made the shrimp stir fry. INSANE! My whole family loved it and begged me to make it again nesxt weekend. Thanks!

[bodyhard]

I'm having a little trouble with recovery right now and I think it has everything to do with inadequate nutrition, i.e. calorie deficit. Now, the calorie deficit is necessary, but is there anything you guys or gals supplement with to aid in recovery?

My hamstrings and calves are still sore right now from Monday and my triceps are pretty sore from Tuesday. The other option is to do nothing as it's not a bad sore, just noticeable. I usually don't have trouble with recovery.

I take the following already:

1-2 scoops whey daily **I believe this has glutamine
Multivitamin (ON Performaxx)
Xtend daily after cardio (2 scoops) **maybe another serving would help
Nordrenalean HSL **fat burner twice daily


I'd rather not supplement with creatine, but if it will help, I'm open to considering it.

Nothing you can really do for recovery, glutamine helps to an extent but it depends if you respond to it. Creatine will not help in recovery.

[buckimscl]

I agree with Bodyhard. I've supped with Glutamine in the past and creatine as well. I am a definite creatine non-repsonder and didn't notice anything appreciable with glutamine as well. How many times per week are you training individual bodyparts?

[Baldiewonkanobi]

Glutamine is the most common amino in our diets. It is also maxed out during heavy exercise. Bodybuilders want instant replenishment....i.e Glutamine suppliments. Will that be the panacea...no. Just one of many pieces of the puzzle to recovery. I have switched to Glutamine Peptides only because of some Medical Journal research I have done. My fav recovery tool...a nap. I will take one today for about an hour after I train here at 5 am. Nap 6:30-7:30am...perfect!! And Creatine...red meat eaters get little to no effect. Veggie folks a big bang. White meat eaters like moi...about 3 + pounds in intra muscular body water weight. Muscles are fuller. When I do eat that side of beef I skip the Creatine that day. Nothing to do with recovery. I feel worse on my day off?? I feel sluggish on day after carb load. Up is down and down is up...WTF....Bodybuilding.


Baldie

[Down4whatever]

checking in buddy.

I have to tell you I made the shrimp stir fry. INSANE! My whole family loved it and begged me to make it again nesxt weekend. Thanks!

Excellent! I can't take credit for inventing the dish, but I guess I can for the reminder of how delicious it is!! I usually have it once or twice per week.....I would eat it more but I'm too cheap to buy more shrimp :o


Thanks for all of the recovery replies. I'm doing most bodyparts once per week with legs being twice per week every other week or so. I think maybe last week was rare as far as recovery. I'm gonna focus on getting a little more sleep and an extra serving of Xtend per day.

[Down4whatever]

I woke up at 6 as usual this morning, but what was not usual was the kid in the mirror. I swear I saw him on a 'Feed the Children' commercial last week. I have mixed emotions about that obviously.

Last few days have been rough on the diet.

Friday I had a retirement luncheon with my retiring boss at a nice steak house. I think I did ok, not too many dips into the appetizers and I had a fillet with julienne veggies and potato wedges.

Saturday, I had another retirement party for the same retiring boss (he's really celebrating this hard) at his home where he served drinks freely and food out the ass. I definately didn't do too well. We'll leave it to your imagination......

I guess the good thing is that I've been heavy on cardio and weight training, so the ill-effects of falling off the diet wagon should be minimized.

Tomorrow is weigh and measure day, if the scale is anywhere as indicative as the mirror, there should be some good results!

[AnglicanBeachParty]

I've got nothing of value to contribute at this time.

I just wanted to post so that your Journal will bump over to Page 27 soon ... because those food pics at the top of your Page 26 are giving me really bad cravings every time I take a look inside this thread!

:drool:

[Down4whatever]

It happened to me in the lunchroom today....

I was preparing my tuna and cottage cheese for meal 2 when along comes a co-worker that never talks to me. She then turns to me and says, "So you run at noon and eat all this weird food, I heard you're doing some contest thingy--do you lift weights or something?"

My reply: facepalm.jpg

[bigdaddyd]

Isn't it funny how healthy is "weird"? Blows my mind

[Down4whatever]

Isn't it funny how healthy is "weird"? Blows my mind

LOL, I was more blown away by the, "do you lift weights" comment. I know I'm no huge dude, but I like to think I have muscle showing through my clothes. Oh well!

[freebirdmac]

LOL, I was more blown away by the, "do you lift weights" comment. I know I'm no huge dude, but I like to think I have muscle showing through my clothes. Oh well!

I know what you mean. I told a guy at work I lifted weights and he said he would have never guessed. But I did look toned. Was wearing a sleeveless shirt no less. I was tempted to flex and ask him if that was "tone". I was depressed the rest of the day.

[buckimscl]

We are always our own worst critic. Fit tells me I have made so much progress and I know that I have but I want it all and I want it now!

[Down4whatever]

Coming into today, I was not gonna sweat it if the scale didn't move because I had a weekend full of drinking and eating freely. I think when we're dieting, we tend to restrict anything that makes us feel good to a point where paranoia can sink in easily. Looking back, I don't think I went especially crazy, but eating sugar and drinking wine can sure scare a guy trying to obtain 5% bodyfat, lol. I have to keep telling myself that food is not the enemy; calorie surpluses are the enemy!

The results:

Weight:

12/2/09 - 193.8 lbs
12/9/09 - 191.5 lbs
12/16/09 - 189.4 lbs

Difference - (2.1 lbs) **actually surprised

Waistline:

12/2/09 - 33 13/16"
12/9/09 - 33 11/16"
12/16/09 - 33 13/16"

Difference - 1/8" **I did feel bloated this morning

The first thing I think of when I lose weight and waist remains almost constant or increases is that I burned off muscle. I really shouldn't think this way because the mirror is definately showing some good improvements. I'm pretty confident that my bloat this morning accounted for this increase in waist and that next week will be better.

[freebirdmac]

Nice! Maybe you should do a refeed more often.

[buckimscl]

Good job on the refeed Matt.

[Baldiewonkanobi]

I've got nothing of value to contribute at this time.

I just wanted to post so that your Journal will bump over to Page 27 soon ... because those food pics at the top of your Page 26 are giving me really bad cravings every time I take a look inside this thread!

:drool:

Agree to that. Between the food porn on here and the 'heavy breathing' at Bucki's thread, the visits become too long.

Baldie

[buckimscl]

agree to that. Between the food porn on here and the 'heavy breathing' at bucki's thread, the visits become too long.

Baldie

lmao!!!

[bodyhard]

Where the fuck are the workouts man? :dunno:

[blu2xtreme]

Just stopping by to say Hi ...hope you are having a great week:hmn:

[Down4whatever]

Where the fuck are the workouts man? :dunno:

Been lazy and not recording......they haven't been too exciting.


Just stopping by to say Hi ...hope you are having a great week:hmn:

Thanks Blu; hope you're having fun as well.

[Down4whatever]

I really thought I was leaning out better than this, but oh well, still have around 11 weeks to go. I didn't hit al the mandatories as I suck at lat spreads.....probably because I have no lats, lol.

The one with my hands clasped is just to show how badly my pelvic tilt makes me look if I am not consciously leaning to correct it.

Feel free to shoot criticisms my way :D :hypno:

[Baldiewonkanobi]

Continued progress my friend. WTG. I think that you need to pose more so that the mind/body connection is stronger. The lats are no doubt there its just that you can't yet consciously control them. Enventualy you will be able to flare them, lift them and drop them at will. On that last Most Muscular shot think WIDE on those delts. You have great leg musculature. Flex them HARD. Look down while you flex them and when you see a separation hold it until it hurts. It will suddenly come naturaly. I bet there are 3 distinct separations in each leg you are not showing us.

Baldie

[AnglicanBeachParty]

I think those look great, Matt!

Quads look especially strong.

Upper body looks quite lean to me for 11 weeks out.

Good job!

[bodyhard]

I really thought I was leaning out better than this, but oh well, still have around 11 weeks to go. I didn't hit al the mandatories as I suck at lat spreads.....probably because I have no lats, lol.

The one with my hands clasped is just to show how badly my pelvic tilt makes me look if I am not consciously leaning to correct it.

Feel free to shoot criticisms my way :D :hypno:

Matt, still seeing some progress, you might not see it but it is there. I agree with Bill, learn to get the mind-muscle connection, you will know when you have it. The best way to do this is by flexing/posing/contracting your muscles everyday and hold your pose/flex/contraction for 7 seconds.

Your side chest is horrible, (the pose not the body). You need to drop your shoulders back and lift your chest HIGH, by arching your back, like you want that motherfucker to touch the ceiling.

[Down4whatever]

Continued progress my friend. WTG. I think that you need to pose more so that the mind/body connection is stronger. The lats are no doubt there its just that you can't yet consciously control them. Enventualy you will be able to flare them, lift them and drop them at will. On that last Most Muscular shot think WIDE on those delts. You have great leg musculature. Flex them HARD. Look down while you flex them and when you see a separation hold it until it hurts. It will suddenly come naturaly. I bet there are 3 distinct separations in each leg you are not showing us.

Baldie

Thanks B!

I plan to do more pose practice as soon as I get a mirror; all I have is the lousy bathroom mirror right now. Lats are there, just really small, and my big waist makes them look even smaller. After I get my waist down to 30-31", maybe they'll look better. Legs seem to be in a constant state of DOMS these days. There are times during the week that I can flex my legs and see all 3 separations, but not always.......seems weird.


I think those look great, Matt!

Quads look especially strong.

Upper body looks quite lean to me for 11 weeks out.

Good job!

Thanks Paul; I hope you're right.....I'm second guessing my math on BF now that I see myself at 189.....thinking maybe I'm still 12% or higher right now--but the camera is not doing me any favors in these shots.


Matt, still seeing some progress, you might not see it but it is there. I agree with Bill, learn to get the mind-muscle connection, you will know when you have it. The best way to do this is by flexing/posing/contracting your muscles everyday and hold your pose/flex/contraction for 7 seconds.

Your side chest is horrible, (the pose not the body). You need to drop your shoulders back and lift your chest HIGH, by arching your back, like you want that motherfucker to touch the ceiling.

Thanks for the eye John! I know my posing needs alot of work :( In January, I plan to implement a cardio session per week to static posing!

[bodyhard]

Matt check this out, hope it helps a little.

[Down4whatever]

Matt check this out, hope it helps a little.

Cool, thanks man. I think I have done it correctly in the past, but this time for some reason, I was focusing on flexing the delt, bicep and hamstring and left my mind off chest height. So many things to think about and 10 seconds to get from camera to the pose, lol (not to mention kicking the dogs outta the way). I need an assistant to be cameraman!

[bodyhard]

Cool, thanks man. I think I have done it correctly in the past, but this time for some reason, I was focusing on flexing the delt, bicep and hamstring and left my mind off chest height. So many things to think about and 10 seconds to get from camera to the pose, lol (not to mention kicking the dogs outta the way). I need an assistant to be cameraman!

You see that is where posing consistently comes into play. You have to learn to flex each body part, concentrating on your weak points and enhancing your strong points. This shit gets hard! :D

[Down4whatever]

Damn, finished the week up at 32.73 miles of outdoor cardio in 5:16:27! Who knows how much distance on indoor cardio as it was the stairmaster 3 times during the week--once for 30 mins, once for 20 mins, and once for 10 mins. I might look at tapering off a little bit and then ramping back up in mid to late January.

I was looking back at my Garmin Training Center for my most voluminous week of cardio and it was the week of June 14-20 at a mind-blowing 40.99 miles :eek: done in 7:30:56--I was doing a ton of walking back then.

[gman]

holy shit. I wasn't even doing that much training for a marathon!

[Down4whatever]

holy shit. I wasn't even doing that much training for a marathon!

Yeah, I may be trying too hard......as you see i have a shitload of BF to shed still even at 189lbs :hypno: I think my estimates were off as I'm prob still around 12% right now

[gman]

I know I am still at least 15% bf, maybe 17.

I have more than a shitload to go.

[fatbackgoal]

I can only dream about the day I am around 12-17%.

[Down4whatever]

I know I am still at least 15% bf, maybe 17.

I have more than a shitload to go.


I can only dream about the day I am around 12-17%.

It does get harder as you get lighter.......body fights back like Rocky VII


On another note, I won $50 in an online poker tournament last night (less the $2.20 buyin), so off to the supplement store I go......Muhahahahaha :yep:

[gman]

$50, lol, you might get something for that....like a tub of protein.

[Down4whatever]

$50, lol, you might get something for that....like a tub of protein.

Hey now, don't be minimizing my big win, lol. It's actually pretty exciting as I implemented fully a newer playing style......well, it's not new, rather new to my game. I call it, 'extreme patience paired with uber aggressiveness'; worked like a charm!

[gman]

my son is considering moving to costa rica and playing live full time.

[Down4whatever]

my son is considering moving to costa rica and playing live full time.

I remember you mentioning that a few days back; sounds awesome if he can become profitable. The trick is to play enough that it doesn't become too much of a grind. Hell, these online pro's basically spend 20 hours playing on Sunday and their week is about complete. Sunday is a BIG online poker day......maybe one day i can achieve some big wins....I watch alot of online play as well.

You play any? Any good? With our math and stat skills, you'd think we would be good. I'm not always down with the math at the table, but I do use it occasionally.

[gman]

I never play, I am not an accountant type personality really...too much emotion and hunches! I really should be doing something else for a living, but I am trapped.

I have been told recently I should work with people because I am good with them...counseling, personal training, etc.

[Down4whatever]

I never play, I am not an accountant type personality really...too much emotion and hunches! I really should be doing something else for a living, but I am trapped.

I have been told recently I should work with people because I am good with them...counseling, personal training, etc.

Well crap! Is that my problem playing poker? lol I'm the same way. I think I'm destined to sandwich artistry at Subway as nothing interests me.......well, nothing attainable. That reminds me.....

I interviewed with a small CPA firm on Friday.....not very excited about the notion, but I really need to make the first move before I get RIF'd at work. (reduction in force) I probably will have an offer waiting for me Monday :o

[gman]

seriously we may be hiring, are you interested? Not promising anything but we need to grow, and I do too much grunt work and need another grunt to help me.

[Down4whatever]

seriously we may be hiring, are you interested? Not promising anything but we need to grow, and I do too much grunt work and need another grunt to help me.

Shit, I'd leave this hell hole in a minute if the timing was a little better. If I remember right, you do audit work mainly..........:help::puke:Audit turns my stomach :D

[gman]

no not a alot of audits, just a few nonprofits. We do mostly tax work and our tax guy is going to retire soon...

[Down4whatever]

no not a alot of audits, just a few nonprofits. We do mostly tax work and our tax guy is going to retire soon...

Interesting......keep me posted and maybe we can chat more at the Arnold. I was still clinging to the supplement store idea....

[gman]

me too, I just don't have any capital. I am razor thin right now on just getting by.

[Baldiewonkanobi]

The GNC in Richmond is for sale. The right business plan, investors like 'doctors', the right terms of purchase, option writen in to carry certain other products like Species and have Dave and John at the grand opening with loads of sponsored give aways bringing in all the Bodybuilders within 100 mile radius, just a thought.


Baldie

[gman]

2 hours away Baldie!

Good idea though, wonder if Dr Smo might want to invest?

[blu2xtreme]

Morning Matt :hmn:
Have a great day!

[gman]

Hey Matt, checking in...post before we all start to worry

[Down4whatever]

Morning Matt :hmn:
Have a great day!

Thanks Paula, u2!!


Hey Matt, checking in...post before we all start to worry

LOL, still alive and kicking. Jogged my usual 3.5 miles this morning; it was nice to be above freezing for a change. Gonna jog/walk 6 miles at lunch and maybe go for a haircut.....not necessarily in that order. Legs tonight!! Got lots of cheating to work off from this weekend!

[freebirdmac]

Cardio this morning, more at lunch, then legs tonight???

[Down4whatever]

Cardio this morning, more at lunch, then legs tonight???

You're right....I'll trim down to 3 miles at lunch :D

Thinking maybe there will be a tie at the Arnold and the tie-breaker will be cardio conditioning :hypno: just kidding.

There was a time in my late 20's when I read natural gas meters that I would be on foot all day walking/jogging/jumping privacy and chain-link fences/running from vicious dogs for an average of 15 miles/day.....ahhh memories....

[gman]

matt, just wanted you to know I lost 3 lbs in one week and did no cardio.

IT's OVERRATED

[gman]

just kidding, Matt. But it does make you wonder doesn't it?

I am starting on cardio again tomorrow.

[Down4whatever]

matt, just wanted you to know I lost 3 lbs in one week and did no cardio.

IT's OVERRATED


just kidding, Matt. But it does make you wonder doesn't it?

I am starting on cardio again tomorrow.

You kids all seem to keep forgetting that I actually loves my cardio......

Happy to report that I felt pretty good at my lunch cardio, so I decided about 2 miles in that I was going to go for a 10K (6.2 miles) personal record (Set previously Sept. 6, 2009--53:48). I know nobody cares in here, but I turned out a 53:36 and I am stoked!!!!! Now back to your regularly scheduled programming.....

[gman]

i like running too, just am not built for it!

I would rather spend the time doing longer lifting sessions!

I did 40 sets on Saturday and skipped the cardio. I think it helped for at least one of the three lbs!

[freebirdmac]

My issue with doing as much cardio as you do is how much you eat. In my mind you have to fuel yourself to maintenance levels, which includes all of that cardio plus lifting, then subtract off about 500 cals for a pound a week. I think you've subtracted off more than 500 and it's hurting you. You're already pretty lean so getting more body fat off is going to be tough. Raising your cortisol levels by working on a large caloric deficit won't help.

[Down4whatever]

i like running too, just am not built for it!

I would rather spend the time doing longer lifting sessions!

I did 40 sets on Saturday and skipped the cardio. I think it helped for at least one of the three lbs!

If you remember not too many months back, I was doing 40-50 sets per session killing myself......all I got out of it was injuries :(

What works for one may or may not work for another. I'm gonna pump out 40 sets for legs tonight in your honor Mikey!! :yep: I may even do another Steve Reeves challenge since I'm so light these days it would only be 93-95 lbs, lol.

[Down4whatever]

My issue with doing as much cardio as you do is how much you eat. In my mind you have to fuel yourself to maintenance levels, which includes all of that cardio plus lifting, then subtract off about 500 cals for a pound a week. I think you've subtracted off more than 500 and it's hurting you. You're already pretty lean so getting more body fat off is going to be tough. Raising your cortisol levels by working on a large caloric deficit won't help.

You didn't seee what I ate this weekend.....**ashamed** :D

I agree with you, when I get my diet back to zero cheating, cardio will lighten up a little for sure.

[Down4whatever]

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/121909.jpghttp://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/005-5.jpg

Here is a side-by-side of August 22 and December 17.....man, I don't see much improvement in the leaning out process......very interesting.

[gman]

more lines in your abs, the very little spare tire you have is a smaller now than in august, there is a new line in your upper arm just above your armpit. Look close and you can see a lot of things like this.

What are the weights then and now?

[Down4whatever]

more lines in your abs, the very little spare tire you have is a smaller now than in august, there is a new line in your upper arm just above your armpit. Look close and you can see a lot of things like this.

What are the weights then and now?

I guess I forgot that the Aug pic (196lbs) was just before I started my Zeus trial where I put on a shitload of fat. The December pic is around 189lbs., so I guess I shouldn't expect much from ~7lbs.

I do see a few subtle changes like you mention.

[bodyhard]

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/121909.jpghttp://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/005-5.jpg

Here is a side-by-side of August 22 and December 17.....man, I don't see much improvement in the leaning out process......very interesting.

Dude you're fucking crazy, are you seriously telling me you don't see a difference or are you just being a modest prick?

You can definitely see the BF dropping, you know I won't bullshit you man. Could you have dropped more? probably, but just like me trying to gain mass in that same time frame, others more than likely could gain more. I take what I fucking can cause it is my accomplishment. Unless I really didn't gain shit, in that case I wouldn't want no one bullshitting me or giving me that attaboy crap, save that shit for the faggotwannebees. But you can clearly see that you are dropping the BF man!

[gman]

Matt, that is the Bronx version of what I said.

[Down4whatever]

Here is a side-by-side of August 22 and December 17.....man, I don't see much improvement in the leaning out process......very interesting.


Dude you're fucking crazy, are you seriously telling me you don't see a difference or are you just being a modest prick?

You can definitely see the BF dropping, you know I won't bullshit you man. Could you have dropped more? probably, but just like me trying to gain mass in that same time frame, others more than likely could gain more. I take what I fucking can cause it is my accomplishment. Unless I really didn't gain shit, in that case I wouldn't want no one bullshitting me or giving me that attaboy crap, save that shit for the faggotwannebees. But you can clearly see that you are dropping the BF man!

See bolded statement

OK, I admit I saw a little improvement, but not as much as I 'feel'. I feel much leaner than I look. Does that make any sense? Getting lean is a mind game for sure......


Matt, that is the Bronx version of what I said.

That cracked me up Mike!

[bodyhard]

Matt, that is the Bronx version of what I said.

LOL Props Mike!


See bolded statement

OK, I admit I saw a little improvement, but not as much as I 'feel'. I feel much leaner than I look. Does that make any sense? Getting lean is a mind game for sure......



That cracked me up Mike!

But Matt the improvements are really good, just check out your obliques/serratus, they speak volumes. Also I feel you on the "I feel" more leaner than I look. Do you know how may times I have "felt" larger than what I looked, to me that is? Then to have someone else say "damn you got big".

We are our worst critics Matt, but that is a good thing, because you will never settle....

Big ups!

[Down4whatever]

LEGS

SQUATZ

135 X 10 **ROM - deep as a mutha
185 X 8

225 X 10
240 X 8
255 X 6
275 X 4
305 X 3 **wobbly as fuck

SMITH CLOSE STANCE SQUATS

185 X 10 **ROM = ass to ankles and pause :eek:
205 X 10
215 X 8 **ran out of steam

SUPER SQUAT MACHINE (FACE IN)

190 x 10 **plate weight only
240 x 10 **Protocal = slowwww and pause at bottom
330 x 8

SEATED LEG CURLS

125 x 15
130 x 15
135 x 15

LEG EXTENSIONS

150 X 15 **used neutral toe angle
155 X 15
160 X 15
210 X 6 **testing what I had left

CALF RAISES

4 sets 30 x various weights and angles

BB LUNGES

100 X 30 **15 per leg
115 X 30 **energy = gone

COMMENTS:

Definately felt the fatigue of jogging/running/walking 9.65 miles today. I guess I won't be doing that again :o Sorry Mike, I was unable to bust out 40 leg sets.....what can I say, I'm a wuss, lol.

Overall, I felt like this was a good session tonight. Chest/bicep tomorrow and a little bit o' cardio. Macros today should be spot on at around 2000-2100 calories and 45p/30c/25f.

[Down4whatever]

But Matt the improvements are really good, just check out your obliques/serratus, they speak volumes. Also I feel you on the "I feel" more leaner than I look. Do you know how may times I have "felt" larger than what I looked, to me that is? Then to have someone else say "damn you got big".

We are our worst critics Matt, but that is a good thing, because you will never settle....

Big ups!

Thanks man! I appreciate your forthright opinion.

[freebirdmac]

Ha! I warned you about all of that cardio before legs! :D

You do look leaner. It's clear from the picts. Feeling leaner means a lot. More than your interpretation of the picts.

[gman]

Matt fyi, no way in hell I would do 40 leg sets.

It was 20 shoulder and 20 chest! a lot easier

[Down4whatever]

Ha! I warned you about all of that cardio before legs! :D

You do look leaner. It's clear from the picts. Feeling leaner means a lot. More than your interpretation of the picts.

LOL, yes, you did.....in fairness, I did heed your warning, but I felt sooooo good after 2 miles that I couldn't resist......I'm an addict, what can I say?

Thanks for the assessment, second and third sets of eyes are nice.


Matt fyi, no way in hell I would do 40 leg sets.

It was 20 shoulder and 20 chest! a lot easier

True, leg sets are cruel....unless you sandbag it.....I guess I could've done that :D

[Baldiewonkanobi]

Yes, visable improvement. Congrats!!

Can we have a back shot?

Baldie

[Down4whatever]

Yes, visable improvement. Congrats!!

Can we have a back shot?

Baldie

Sure, I can say with 100% accuracy that my back has not leaned out any....I was already decently lean there to begin with. Same time frame differences--Aug 22 and Dec 17

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/008-1.jpghttp://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/003-10.jpg


Here's one from March for fun!

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/010-2.jpg

[gman]

march you look like an accountant. I had that same back shot. lol

[buckimscl]

Good improvement Matt!

[baftub]

Definitely leaner, along with different lighting. Don't fuzz too much about it, you're losing at an incredible rate. Inspirational! Sorry Im late :D

[Down4whatever]

Good improvement Matt!

Thanks Buck!


Definitely leaner, along with different lighting. Don't fuzz too much about it, you're losing at an incredible rate. Inspirational! Sorry Im late :D

Hey bud!! Good to have you along! I remember following your prep last year, THAT was inspirational my friend! Shit gets real after this week, buckle in!

[Down4whatever]

Not much to preface with this week. I had a shitty weekend again, so not expecting too good results again. After this week, it should start picking up again. The last two days have been LOW calorie so that I can open up a little on Friday and eat more freely.

The results:

Weight:

12/2/09 - 193.8 lbs
12/9/09 - 191.5 lbs
12/16/09 - 189.4 lbs
12/23/09 - 188.8 lbs

Difference - (.6 lbs) **meh, haven't 'emptied' in a bit

Waistline:

12/2/09 - 33 13/16"
12/9/09 - 33 11/16"
12/16/09 - 33 13/16"
12/23/09 - 33 7/16"

Difference - (3/8") **good rebound from last week

I did something yesterday that I swore I wasn't gonna do again; I weighed a day early for kicks. Yesterday morning, I weighed 187.6, so it was a little disappointing this morning, but I'm sure it's due to not emptying--besides, this isn't a friggin weightloss contest. The important part is how lean I feel and look in the mirror. I don't think I've weighed this little since 1997........

[gman]

Keep it up bro, it's going to be mostly mental the rest of the way...stay strong

[Baldiewonkanobi]

I think the Bodybuilder Matt is out pacing runner Matt. Yeah for our side....

Baldie

[Down4whatever]

Keep it up bro, it's going to be mostly mental the rest of the way...stay strong

Heck ya, after Friday, it's on.....


I think the Bodybuilder Matt is out pacing runner Matt. Yeah for our side....

Baldie

Cool, runner Matt was really never any good anyway :D

Here's a new progress pic......anyone ready to throw in the towel yet?

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/007-5-1.jpg

[gman]

I got 10 weeks, I can catch up!

[freebirdmac]

Lol!

[Down4whatever]

Fucking Oklahoma weather!:fingers::angry:

Long story short, I am the worlds biggest pussy at driving on iced roads....and oh yeah, it's currently raining ice right now with 40 mph wind gusts. May have to enjoy Christmas all by myself........fucking livid!!

[gman]

That sucks Matt, hope it warms up enough to melt soon.

[Down4whatever]

That sucks Matt, hope it warms up enough to melt soon.

Thanks man......at least I have my secret stash of rattlesnake ingredients....

[Down4whatever]

Outside my house right now:
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/002-13.jpg


At least my car is FWD; I only have to travel 60 miles...
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/001-19.jpg

[gman]

If you can get out to the main road it might be fine.

[Down4whatever]

If you can get out to the main road it might be fine.

Ummm, yeah....here's the forcast:


From Meteorologist Dan Threlkeld:



A Blizzard Warning is in effect until 6am Christmas morning for the following counties: CHEROKEE...OKFUSKEE...OKMULGEE...WAGONER...
TULSA...ROGERS...MAYES...DELAWARE...OTTAWA...WASHI NGTON...
CRAIG...NOWATA...MCINTOSH AND MUSKOGEE.

The sleet is rapidly changing to snow in NE Oklahoma. The line will continue to move east tonight. This line will continue to slowly move east this afternoon and evening.
We're already getting reports of numerous slick roads.
The highest snowfall totals will occur south of Tulsa as the center of the Low tracks near southern OK. Current data suggests that 3-6" snow totals are possible in Tulsa.

This Afternoon: Sleet changing to snow.
Winds: N 15-35 mph
5pm: Snow. 28
10pm: Snow. 22

Tonight: Snow and blowing snow. Windy and very cold.
Wind: NW 20-35 mph
Overnight Low: 19

Christmas Day: Moring snow flurries then decreasing clouds by afternoon.
Wind: NW 10-20 mph in the morning then decreasing winds by afternoon.
Afternoon High: 32
We are streaming our 2News Weather Plus, our 24 hour weather channel, on our web site and will do frequent updates on KJRH this afternoon.

Look for complete live team coverage tonight at 5pm on 2News in HD.

Use extreme caution if you must drive. There will likely be numerous accidents on city streets and highways.

[gman]

go now!

[Down4whatever]

One more for some extended holiday cheer:


BLIZZARD WARNING (http://www.kjrh.com/weather/alerts.aspx)
Breaking News: Gov. Henry declares state of emergency for winter storm (http://www.kjrh.com/content/news/breaking/story/Gov-Henry-declares-state-of-emergency-for-winter/jK6nx--m5EClNjd259R1PQ.cspx)

[gman]

still have to wonder, since when is 3-6" of snow a blizzard?

Oh yeah, when it happens in Va Beach or Tulsa

[Down4whatever]

still have to wonder, since when is 3-6" of snow a blizzard?

Oh yeah, when it happens in Va Beach or Tulsa

LOL, I think the blizzard refers to the excessive wind paired with the snow.

[gman]

I thought it implied excessive wind and excessive snow.

[blu2xtreme]

still have to wonder, since when is 3-6" of snow a blizzard?

Oh yeah, when it happens in Va Beach or Tulsa

We got 1 inch last year and they closed schools :yep:

[gman]

they closed ours this fall for a nor'easter...no snow at all.

[Down4whatever]

I thought it implied excessive wind and excessive snow.

Yeah, me too.....not sure why they're calling it blizzard..


We got 1 inch last year and they closed schools :yep:
We low altitude and warm climate states are wusses, lol.

[Down4whatever]

I got a bottle o' Southern Comfort, and $62 in the poker account......that's all I need for a night of craziness alone :o


Ate ice cream today and my veins likey:

[gman]

veiny = good

just go ahead and keep eating ice cream every day until Columbus...you will look great!!!!

[blu2xtreme]

I got a bottle o' Southern Comfort, and $62 in the poker account......that's all I need for a night of craziness alone :o


Ate ice cream today and my veins likey:

Veiny I love ....your night of craziness alone scares me a little:p;)

[Down4whatever]

veiny = good

just go ahead and keep eating ice cream every day until Columbus...you will look great!!!!

Haha, maybe just every other day......I, like you, have shut off diet for 24 hours and I'm lovin it!!!

Here's me out weathering the storm.....put the camera on the car and set the timer, lol

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/005-10.jpg

[gman]

do it shirtless and impress us all!

dieting on Christmas Eve and Christmas is not right, and I refuse to do it.

[Down4whatever]

Veiny I love ....your night of craziness alone scares me a little:p;)

Everyone is invited by the way :D

What? Nobody can make it? Shit!!!

[blu2xtreme]

do it shirtless and impress us all!



Everyone is invited by the way :D

What? Nobody can make it? Shit!!!

You could take pics ;)

[gman]

he's already taken enough today to fill all the bandwidth on here. ;)

[Down4whatever]

You could take pics ;)

Guess I could....


he's already taken enough today to fill all the bandwidth on here. ;)

Hey now......I'm bored and lonely.....

Neighbors prob think I'm a nut...

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/006-6.jpg

[gman]

damn matt, you are friggin ripped. Not kidding.

[blu2xtreme]

Guess I could....



Hey now......I'm bored and lonely.....

Neighbors prob think I'm a nut...



Lookin good :drool::drool:
Love pics ...thanks Matt for the early Christmas gift ;)

[Down4whatever]

damn matt, you are friggin ripped. Not kidding.

Hmmm, I look like I always do......must be the different lighting; I actually look small in that shot--would have liked to have had a pump or something.


Lookin good :drool::drool:
Love pics ...thanks Matt for the early Christmas gift ;)

Haha, thanks Paula. Merry Christmas; hope yours is better than mine

[Down4whatever]

Confession pic:

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/009-4.jpg

[blu2xtreme]

I have had a great Holiday Season this year and I have a good feeling this next year will be a great one too...hope yours gets better.

[blu2xtreme]

Confession pic:

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/009-4.jpg


That is one odd combo ...especially the Bunny Tracks ice cream ...my daughters fave

[Down4whatever]

That is one odd combo ...especially the Bunny Tracks ice cream ...my daughters fave

Just a collection of goodies I have been craving........I love the bunny tracks.....kinda weird though--little lumps of chocolate called 'tracks'. If you are like me you might envision bunny shit, lol. :hypno:

[blu2xtreme]

Just a collection of goodies I have been craving........I love the bunny tracks.....kinda weird though--little lumps of chocolate called 'tracks'. If you are like me you might envision bunny shit, lol. :hypno:

How many drinks have you indulged in already:hypno:

Only 3:30 here not going to our festivities until 6
workout in about 15min
I had put a halt on alcohol until Columbus ...but I might start that tomorrow...I now have a craving for drink :D

[Down4whatever]

How many drinks have you indulged in already:hypno:

Only 3:30 here not going to our festivities until 6
workout in about 15min
I had put a halt on alcohol until Columbus ...but I might start that tomorrow...I now have a craving for drink :D

LOL, I'm nursing my first one.....it's 5:30 here. Hope I didn't mess with your willpower by showing my liqoor stash. Enjoy your holiday; life's too short to be strict 24/7/365

[blu2xtreme]

LOL, I'm nursing my first one.....it's 5:30 here. Hope I didn't mess with your willpower by showing my liqoor stash. Enjoy your holiday; life's too short to be strict 24/7/365

My brother makes some killer shots ...might have a few
Make sure you keep us updated on your fun with pic updates ...
my fun will be posted on facebook later:)

[gman]

I got sick a little seeing the southern comfort. Had a bad night of it freshman year in college, and just thinking of it or seeing it makes me a little queasy!

[Down4whatever]

I got sick a little seeing the southern comfort. Had a bad night of it freshman year in college, and just thinking of it or seeing it makes me a little queasy!

LOL, I'm the same way with George Killians Beer....drank a 6pack and ate a whole bag o' ranch doritos and puked big time back in my military dayz

[Down4whatever]

White Christmas indeed............

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/010-3.jpg

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/011-4.jpg

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/012-4.jpg

[Down4whatever]

Many of the closed highways have begun to open; travel is ill-advised, but I'm not gonna sit here all by myself today.......I'm gonna tackle my fears and dig my car out and try to get to the family gathering here in a few minutes.

Hopefully this post does not end up on some eulogy or obituary...:hypno:

[blu2xtreme]

Many of the closed highways have begun to open; travel is ill-advised, but I'm not gonna sit here all by myself today.......I'm gonna tackle my fears and dig my car out and try to get to the family gathering here in a few minutes.

Hopefully this post does not end up on some eulogy or obituary...:hypno:

Good Luck Matt

Be safe :hugme::hugme:

[Down4whatever]

Good Luck Matt

Be safe :hugme::hugme:

Thanks, I will.....I guess no hot rodding will be in order. :o

Few more shots--nothing too exciting:

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/003-11.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/001-20.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/bustasinclair/002-14.jpg

[buckimscl]

Many of the closed highways have begun to open; travel is ill-advised, but I'm not gonna sit here all by myself today.......I'm gonna tackle my fears and dig my car out and try to get to the family gathering here in a few minutes.

Hopefully this post does not end up on some eulogy or obituary...:hypno:
Matt, let's not be too morbid!

[Down4whatever]

Made it out of my neighborhood only to see that the main roads were just as bad. Drove around the city block and ran a few red lights inadvertantly--witnessed 2 minor accidents--headed back home--got stuck in an intersection---got pushed out by some samaritans--got back to the house and got stuck halfway into my driveway--got assisted by my neighbor samaritans. This shit sucks!

Christmas? Maybe next year......been drinking for an hour now.....

[blu2xtreme]

That sucks Matt
I was wondering how it was going
I could post some food porn pics after going to my moms if you want:dunno:

[Down4whatever]

That sucks Matt
I was wondering how it was going
I could post some food porn pics after going to my moms if you want:dunno:

That would be awesome....all I have in the house is BB'ing food :( (ate all the good shit)

Maybe the grocery store within walking distance is open..:dunno:

[Down4whatever]

At least the dogs are happy....

[blu2xtreme]

My holy terror pup Jax is passed out too - after trying to attack every piece of wrapping paper and grab every piece of tissues paper

[Down4whatever]

My holy terror pup Jax is passed out too - after trying to attack every piece of wrapping paper and grab every piece of tissues paper

Hahaha, any pics you could post of him? I love the Aust. cattle breed; them and blue heelers too.

[V-Man]

Matt, I'm new here check out my journal. You look great keep up the good progress during your prep. That is after Christmas of course.

Vito

[blu2xtreme]

Hahaha, any pics you could post of him? I love the Aust. cattle breed; them and blue heelers too.

Here he with my daughter this morning - Jax is mad the flash woke him up
http://i574.photobucket.com/albums/ss190/blu2xtreme/003-1.jpg

This one is of Jax I hiking in Sept
http://i574.photobucket.com/albums/ss190/blu2xtreme/001.jpg

[Down4whatever]

Matt, I'm new here check out my journal. You look great keep up the good progress during your prep. That is after Christmas of course.

Vito

Will do Vito, thanks for vote of confidence!


Here he with my daughter this morning - Jax is mad the flash woke him up
http://i574.photobucket.com/albums/ss190/blu2xtreme/003-1.jpg

This one is of Jax I hiking in Sept
http://i574.photobucket.com/albums/ss190/blu2xtreme/001.jpg

I want to pet him......:(

He's very cute! What are the kinds of bones they warn you not to feed your dogs?

[blu2xtreme]

Will do Vito, thanks for vote of confidence!



I want to pet him......:(

He's very cute! What are the kinds of bones they warn you not to feed your dogs?

He is a love but is very bad when we are not home ...
All rawhide bones are bad and those greenies
We have to give Jax rawhides or he would chew our house apart:hypno:
We have a little min pin - she can't do much damage - she is the queen of the house ...Jax is the bad teenager:p but he is my baby boy

[blu2xtreme]

Here's some food porn for you Matt
http://i574.photobucket.com/albums/ss190/blu2xtreme/023.jpg

http://i574.photobucket.com/albums/ss190/blu2xtreme/033.jpg

[gman]

i am dying looking at this

[blu2xtreme]

i am dying looking at this

I'm dying because ...I did eat it :hypno:

[gman]

one meatball would be a meal

[blu2xtreme]

one meatball would be a meal

I made the meatballs a little big this time ...but everyone loved them:drool:

[Baldiewonkanobi]

Matt...wuz up? Some one slip a roofie into your eggnog?



Baldie

[Down4whatever]

Matt...wuz up? Some one slip a roofie into your eggnog?



Baldie

Present and accounted for......sir! :D

WTF is a roofie?

Diet cleaned up and ready for another 60+ dayz of starving delight!

Skiied.....I mean drove to work a little later this morning. Ice is still pretty thick as well as the snow :(

[gman]

showin off in the new avi?

I would too if I had a 6 pack!

[freebirdmac]

Dang. Even I know what a roofie is.

[gman]

I have no idea either Matt, don't feel bad

[Down4whatever]

showin off in the new avi?

I would too if I had a 6 pack!

lol, nah, just something fresh....don't quite feel right posting an avi in posing trunks yet. I only have a 5 pack :D


Dang. Even I know what a roofie is.

Care to share?


I have no idea either Matt, don't feel bad

Glad it's not just me... :dunno:

[freebirdmac]

You're lazy :)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flunitrazepam

[gman]

matt and I never have dates so we had no reason to know.

[Down4whatever]

You're lazy :)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flunitrazepam

lol, not lazy, just didn't think to google it....work might find it strange if they found me googling that word :eek:


matt and I never have dates so we had no reason to know.

Thanks for the reminder of how much of a loser I am Mike :o

[Baldiewonkanobi]

Google...Date Rape Drug.

Cool avi !!

Baldie

[gman]

lol, not lazy, just didn't think to google it....work might find it strange if they found me googling that word :eek:



Thanks for the reminder of how much of a loser I am Mike :o

you can't get a date if you don't ask!

[Down4whatever]

Thought this was cool!


Look Who's Coming To Play on Yahoo! Video

[freebirdmac]

Please, I haven't dated in over 6 years. That's not an excuse.

[Down4whatever]

Please, I haven't dated in over 6 years. That's not an excuse.

Damn, I wish I had your discipline....loneliness is hitting me pretty hard of late. You must share your secret....;)

[Baldiewonkanobi]

Two great looking 'youngsters' with winning personalities and home alone?? I go to the mall and see Neanderthals holding hands and with 6 kids. What gives?? Never mind the secret....whats the cure?

Baldie

[freebirdmac]

Damn, I wish I had your discipline....loneliness is hitting me pretty hard of late. You must share your secret....;)

It was easy, just crawled into a cave and hid out :)

I'm the only parent and my mom was my only babysitter. By the time my daughter was 11 she didn't want me to date, did not like being at Grandma's, I did not like my mom knowing my business like I was in high school again, and I felt like I was choosing between my kid and some guy. So I tabled all of that stuff. I'm at a point where I think I'm open to it again. Haven't found any prospects yet.

[freebirdmac]

Two great looking 'youngsters' with winning personalities and home alone?? I go to the mall and see Neanderthals holding hands and with 6 kids. What gives?? Never mind the secret....whats the cure?

Baldie

You mean the cure for stopping the Neanderthals from multiplying?

[gman]

no, the cure for why ladies fall for the neanderthals.

[blu2xtreme]

no, the cure for why ladies fall for the neanderthals.

I need that cure ...3 trys at it is enough:confused:

Welcome back Matt ...Great Avi
missed you :hugme:

[Baldiewonkanobi]

.........well then, thank God for Alessandro Volta.




Baldie

[blu2xtreme]

.........well then, thank God for Alessandro Volta.




Baldie

Baldie ...You are to damn funny:p
...and yes I had to google who he was

[Down4whatever]

Two great looking 'youngsters' with winning personalities and home alone?? I go to the mall and see Neanderthals holding hands and with 6 kids. What gives?? Never mind the secret....whats the cure?

Baldie

Damn nice of you B! Part of my problem is my selectiveness. My next/final go at this will be with a woman who puts her health extremely high on her priority list......don't see too many of them walking around.

LOL at the neanderthals, I see them too. :hypno:


It was easy, just crawled into a cave and hid out :)

I'm the only parent and my mom was my only babysitter. By the time my daughter was 11 she didn't want me to date, did not like being at Grandma's, I did not like my mom knowing my business like I was in high school again, and I felt like I was choosing between my kid and some guy. So I tabled all of that stuff. I'm at a point where I think I'm open to it again. Haven't found any prospects yet.

Very noble; shows great discipline and love for your daughter. I would most definately consider you to be a 'prospect'. :)


You mean the cure for stopping the Neanderthals from multiplying?


no, the cure for why ladies fall for the neanderthals.

I think this is obviously never gonna happen....


I need that cure ...3 trys at it is enough:confused:

Welcome back Matt ...Great Avi
missed you :hugme:

Thanks Paula! I have a feeling you're gonna get it right next time!


.........well then, thank God for Alessandro Volta.


Baldie

Ah yes, the battery guy......wait, wat! :eek:


Baldie ...You are to damn funny:p
...and yes I had to google who he was

Mee too :D

[blu2xtreme]

Hey Matt ...
I have it from a good source there will be 1 divorced and 2 soon to be divorced girls in my group at the Columbus raging from 37 - 45 and we all are damn cute ...just saying:p

[gman]

I believe that we need pics of said ladies so we can help Matt see if they are cute!

[blu2xtreme]

I believe that we need pics of said ladies so we can help Matt see if they are cute!

I believe Matt would have to ask for those pics ...and Matt has already seen the pics on my face book ...sorry Mike :p

[gman]

Can't blame me for wanting a preview can you?

[blu2xtreme]

Can't blame me for wanting a preview can you?

You already met us silly ...you said we were cute ;)
but you did have a couple drinks:p

[gman]

oh those girls.... ;)

I was just trying to get pics by acting dumb.

[Baldiewonkanobi]

Hey Matt ...
I have it from a good source there will be 1 divorced and 2 soon to be divorced girls in my group at the Columbus raging from 37 - 45 and we all are damn cute ...just saying:p

Baldie

[blu2xtreme]

Hey we aren't that old ...
how old is our baby Matt:confused:

I think he can handle us;)

[freebirdmac]

Hey we aren't that old ...
how old is our baby Matt:confused:

I think he can handle us;)

Cougar = 40+
Although why people want to label every single woman over forty a cougar is beyond me. Some deserve the title. Others don't.

[Down4whatever]

I don't think the term qualifies when the man is close to the same age; I'm 38 crunchy years old :D

[Down4whatever]

:drool::drool::byeg:

[blu2xtreme]

Cougar = 40+
Although why people want to label every single woman over forty a cougar is beyond me. Some deserve the title. Others don't.

I am sure I have been called a lot worse:dunno:


I don't think the term qualifies when the man is close to the same age; I'm 38 crunchy years old :D

So young Matt ...what is your age range for dating?

[Down4whatever]

so young matt ...what is your age range for dating?

lol, 18-55

[gman]

lol, 18-55

you are too picky, no wonder you can't get a date ;)

[blu2xtreme]

lol, 18-55


you are too picky, no wonder you can't get a date ;)

I am a little pickier ... 21 - 50 :p ;)

[Down4whatever]

I am a little pickier ... 21 - 50 :p ;)

Wow, you're missing out on 8 years worth of potential prospects :D:drool:

[gman]

13-21? come on bro? lol

[blu2xtreme]

Wow, you're missing out on 8 years worth of potential prospects :D:drool:
A lot of thought went into picking those ages ...
They need to be older then my son and younger then my soon to be ex ;)

[Down4whatever]

13-21? come on bro? lol

C'mon now..........18-20 & 51-55 = 8 :yep:

[gman]

C'mon now..........18-20 & 51-55 = 8 :yep:

I want to believe you, I really do....

[Down4whatever]

:babyboy::hungry:

[bodyhard]

WTF is going on in this thread? :D

[Baldiewonkanobi]

Don't know John :dunno:....gonna need top to bottom protection just to log in here......


Baldie

[bodyhard]

Don't know John :dunno:....gonna need top to bottom protection just to log in here......


Baldie

LMFAO!!

Nice AV Man!!

[buckimscl]

Checking in Matt.

[Down4whatever]

WTF is going on in this thread? :D

Haha, just some dreaming....


Don't know John :dunno:....gonna need top to bottom protection just to log in here......


Baldie

There is alot of testosterone flying around in here. :D


Checking in Matt.

Just hangin loose; after this weekend, the bottom falls out! :hypno:

[bodyhard]

Haha, just some dreaming....


Dreaming? Why dreaming don't tell me you never fucked a hot women like that before?

If not come to my corner we need to talk ;) :D

[blu2xtreme]

Hey Matt Hope You have a Great New Years and that this years brings you that dream girl ...you deserve it:)

[partsRheavy]

Happy New Year!!!! :yep:

[Down4whatever]

Dreaming? Why dreaming don't tell me you never fucked a hot women like that before?

If not come to my corner we need to talk ;) :D

If I landed a chic that hot, I'd prob die during sex :D


Hey Matt Hope You have a Great New Years and that this years brings you that dream girl ...you deserve it:)

Thanks Paula, I hope your 2010 brings you closer to your big decision. Enjoy!


Happy New Year!!!! :yep:

Thanks, you too!

[Down4whatever]

Well, after about 10 days of semi-gluttony and inactiveness, I have arrived at a point where I may not be able to recover before March 5, but I'm gonna give it a shot. I haven't hit the weights in 11 days and I haven't done any cardio in 8 days. I know this journal needs to stay on a positive key, so I will not really go indepth as to why I have been out of it, but those of you who know me know exactly why.

I feel like I have put it behind me now. I started back today with some cardio--ran in the snow and ice for 3 sessions at 3.5 miles each time. Going forward I intend to get in 50 miles per week until peak week which is February 28th. Weight training is changing up to a 3 day split full body. Macros are going to start out around 2300 calories per day and decreasing by 100 every week until I reach around 1700. I'm hoping by reducing weight training, that the sessions will be more intense and thereby more beneficial or at least as beneficial as the 5 day or 4 day split I've been doing.

I'm going to buy a large mirror tomorrow and begin static posing immediately--call it every other night or whenever the mood strikes. My main goal in all of this is to cure the monotony of my current program. I'm not sure why I have lost interest in lifting, but I need to find that fire I used to have.

I haven't done any measuring lately, but I did jump on the scale a few days ago and it looks like I'm back up 2lbs to around 190 and we'll see on Wednesday how much my waistline has increased. Time to make it happen!!!

[blu2xtreme]

Love ya Matt ...I know you can do it :yep:

You ass better be in Columbus ....I have to have at least one single guy to flirt with;)

[Down4whatever]

Love ya Matt ...I know you can do it :yep:

You ass better be in Columbus ....I have to have at least one single guy to flirt with;)

I'll be there! Funny how you automatically assume I'll still be single.........good insight :)

[Down4whatever]

This song appears to be the kick-off of the next phase of my life....

My life is very dependent upon music FYI. This is not my 'normal' style of music, but for some reason it really inspires me; even though it has really nothing to do with anything in my life. Maybe I relate to it on a different level.


YouTube- "Empire State of Mind" Jay-Z | Alicia Keys [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

[blu2xtreme]

I'll be there! Funny how you automatically assume I'll still be single.........good insight :)

A girl can dream;)
See ya there sexy


This song appears to be the kick-off of the next phase of my life....

My life is very dependent upon music FYI. This is not my 'normal' style of music, but for some reason it really inspires me; even though it has really nothing to do with anything in my life. Maybe I relate to it on a different level.


It's a great song ...downloaded it the day it came out
Not as great as Run This Town - not my normal style either but that whole cd is pretty good

[Down4whatever]

Just finished a light run/jog in the damn snow. This is the 4th day out of the last 10 that we've been snowed on; not normal for this neck of the woods. Temperature is like 19 with a wind chill in the single digits and my ass just ran 5 miles and all 5 were in the sub 9 minute range.....probably because I wanted to get back to the warmth. Looks like I'll be grocery shopping on foot today as the streets are getting sloppy again; luckily I live .5 miles from a major grocery store......hiking with groceries for cardio, hmmmm :D

[bodyhard]

Well, after about 10 days of semi-gluttony and inactiveness, I have arrived at a point where I may not be able to recover before March 5, but I'm gonna give it a shot. I haven't hit the weights in 11 days and I haven't done any cardio in 8 days. I know this journal needs to stay on a positive key, so I will not really go indepth as to why I have been out of it, but those of you who know me know exactly why.

I feel like I have put it behind me now. I started back today with some cardio--ran in the snow and ice for 3 sessions at 3.5 miles each time. Going forward I intend to get in 50 miles per week until peak week which is February 28th. Weight training is changing up to a 3 day split full body. Macros are going to start out around 2300 calories per day and decreasing by 100 every week until I reach around 1700. I'm hoping by reducing weight training, that the sessions will be more intense and thereby more beneficial or at least as beneficial as the 5 day or 4 day split I've been doing.

I'm going to buy a large mirror tomorrow and begin static posing immediately--call it every other night or whenever the mood strikes. My main goal in all of this is to cure the monotony of my current program. I'm not sure why I have lost interest in lifting, but I need to find that fire I used to have.

I haven't done any measuring lately, but I did jump on the scale a few days ago and it looks like I'm back up 2lbs to around 190 and we'll see on Wednesday how much my waistline has increased. Time to make it happen!!!


This is where you separate the wannabees from the do'ers Matt.

No need to answer to anybody but yourself, what are you?

[gman]

Matt, just checking in bro...hope everything is good.

[buckimscl]

Checking in Matt. Hope you had a good New Year.

[bodyhard]

Matt, are you taking a longer New Years break than anyone else?

Hope all is well.

[Baldiewonkanobi]

Those Ok folks don't know the rule...:no: DON'T EAT YELLOW :no: snow. Maybe he's sick??


Baldie

[freebirdmac]

If he kept prancing around in the cold barely dressed he could be sick!

[Baldiewonkanobi]

YouTube- Yellow snow, yellow snow, yellow snow!

Baldie

[blu2xtreme]

Hey Matt check in will ya
us old folks worry a lot :(

Miss you :hugme:

[partsRheavy]

I'm wonderin' too. I do know there are some scattered power outages in Oklahoma linked to the snow and cold weather.

[Baldiewonkanobi]

MIA









Baldie

[AnglicanBeachParty]

C'mon back, Matt!

[Baldiewonkanobi]

I got the search underway. They are starting with all the jogging paths, high school tracks, Planet Fitness, and a few singles bars.

http://www.ok.gov/homeland/Regional_Response_System/Urban_Search_and_Rescue_Units_(OK-TF1)/


Baldie

[bodyhard]

Hope all is well Matt..

[freebirdmac]

Me too! :)

[Down4whatever]

Hey everyone! I'm still alive and kicking. Thank you for your concerns.

I had fallen in a funk the past 3-4 weeks and had to do some soul searching. Mike sent me an email and Paula sent me an IM that helped me along, and I thank them.

I visited my old demons from the past and I was able to exorcise them, and I had some epiphanies along the way:


First - I am not a bodybuilder! I am athletic, strong, healthy, and a runnin' mutherfucker, but my physique is not aesthetically pleasing and I am aware of this now more than ever.

Second - I have failed miserably at many things in life and I'm going to have to live with them and accept them or I will become an alcoholic and end up dead sooner than later.

Third - I enjoy weight training and nutrition partitioning, but sometimes it becomes a grind. I have to find a way to enjoy my training and eating without becoming obsessive and compulsive about it.

I'm considering continuing my training for the challenge if it's still open for me. I weighed in at 192.8 this morning, which is way less than I had thought based on my sick diet the last 4 weeks. If I could manage 1.5lbs per week loss, I could still come in at around 180-182.

I apologize in advance if this entry in my journal seems too personal and pathetic to anyone, but sometimes it's good to write out thoughts.

[gman]

Matt, I love you like a brother. I welcome you back. And please do the challenge. I know you think I am doing a lot better than you, but my goal is 18 more lbs, so I am even further off than you are! I will take 13 (don't tell anyone), but really wanted 175, not 180.

We will have a blast, it's just a few friends having a good time in their speedos!

On your points, we all have weak spots, I think you do have bodybuilder potential, not pro potential, but very few do. Like baldie says, it's all smoke and mirrors anyway...come on stage conditioned and tan and know how to pose, and you will do well. I do understand though that you are an athlete first, and bodybuilder second.

2nd point: very similar to me...I am 48 and feel like I have accomplished not one worthwhile thing in my life yet. Miserable in my career and yet stuck in it due to being the breadwinner. I know how you feel friend...we need to get each other's back...all of us on here I think are like family, at least thats how I feel.

3rd point: can't help you too much with that, but you will find a way to make it enjoyable I am sure. I know I am not doing it the typical way this time and I am enjoying it a lot. I eat so many different things on so many different days, and as long as my protein is 200+ my carbs are 100 or less and my fat is 75g or less, I don't care!

Love you, Matt. no homo ;)

[gman]

Texted bucki the news that you are bacd, and he says to stay in the Challenge too, Matt. Told me to tell you he supports you all the way!

[Baldiewonkanobi]

Matt since I have trained with you I can say your are a beast in the gym. 90% of the others pee down their legs watching you. So in my book that makes you a brother Bodybuilder. Yeah you run too much from my limited perspective... I am not an athlete, so blessed as you. To be honest it is I who becomes jealous in your presence. You can run for a long pass, jump for a basketball and take a friendly hit in a backyard football game and not come up lame. Me on the otherhand would end up in the back of a paramedic van.

Welcome back.

Baldie

[esplendido]

Hey everyone! I'm still alive and kicking. Thank you for your concerns.

I had fallen in a funk the past 3-4 weeks and had to do some soul searching. Mike sent me an email and Paula sent me an IM that helped me along, and I thank them.

I visited my old demons from the past and I was able to exorcise them, and I had some epiphanies along the way:


First - I am not a bodybuilder! I am athletic, strong, healthy, and a runnin' mutherfucker, but my physique is not aesthetically pleasing and I am aware of this now more than ever.

Second - I have failed miserably at many things in life and I'm going to have to live with them and accept them or I will become an alcoholic and end up dead sooner than later.

Third - I enjoy weight training and nutrition partitioning, but sometimes it becomes a grind. I have to find a way to enjoy my training and eating without becoming obsessive and compulsive about it.

I'm considering continuing my training for the challenge if it's still open for me. I weighed in at 192.8 this morning, which is way less than I had thought based on my sick diet the last 4 weeks. If I could manage 1.5lbs per week loss, I could still come in at around 180-182.

I apologize in advance if this entry in my journal seems too personal and pathetic to anyone, but sometimes it's good to write out thoughts.

I had to laugh at your reference to the "grind" of training and diet. Welcome to bodybuilding, Matt! Let your push to the Arnold be the inspiration that turns the grind into a joy!

[gman]

It's grinding me down, too...but the end is in sight! Do it, Matt!

[Baldiewonkanobi]

The grind...oh chit...tell me about it. 20 months of it........

11-27-2008 Start at a soft 233#
07-17-2009 rock hard (but lacking any mass) 194#
11-27-2009 Start adding mass by any means 197#
01-12-2010 210# and luvin it...lean but far from ready
04-01-2010 Hit 220 goal and start two a day training/cardio
07-04-2010 Mr. Muscle Beach heavy weight Open class 198# and under RIPPED to chit (will be hard to get under...sure do not want into the Super Heavies)
07-23-2010 NPC Nationals Over 70 class 202-204# ultra conditioned and full muscle bellies...should do it.

Retire for good. Write a book. Phew....what a grind.

Baldie

[blu2xtreme]

Love ya Matt
welcome back:hugme:
I meant everything in my pm
anytime you need it... I am there

[AnglicanBeachParty]

Glad to see you are back!

And I hope you do continue to train for the Arnold Challenge.

[Bob45]

I'm going to follow in here too. We all sure fall in a funk. We all have our life regrets. I sure don't look like a bodybuilder either. It is fun and challenging though. Just like most sports. This Arnold challenge seems like a way to get in great shape. Keep pumping!

[Down4whatever]

Matt, I love you like a brother. I welcome you back. And please do the challenge. I know you think I am doing a lot better than you, but my goal is 18 more lbs, so I am even further off than you are! I will take 13 (don't tell anyone), but really wanted 175, not 180.

We will have a blast, it's just a few friends having a good time in their speedos!

On your points, we all have weak spots, I think you do have bodybuilder potential, not pro potential, but very few do. Like baldie says, it's all smoke and mirrors anyway...come on stage conditioned and tan and know how to pose, and you will do well. I do understand though that you are an athlete first, and bodybuilder second.

2nd point: very similar to me...I am 48 and feel like I have accomplished not one worthwhile thing in my life yet. Miserable in my career and yet stuck in it due to being the breadwinner. I know how you feel friend...we need to get each other's back...all of us on here I think are like family, at least thats how I feel.

3rd point: can't help you too much with that, but you will find a way to make it enjoyable I am sure. I know I am not doing it the typical way this time and I am enjoying it a lot. I eat so many different things on so many different days, and as long as my protein is 200+ my carbs are 100 or less and my fat is 75g or less, I don't care!

Love you, Matt. no homo ;)

I feel the same way Mike. I felt like that short weekend, we developed a great friendship and I value it. I appreciate all of the encouragement and kind words. I actually never considered it a competition per se. Like we said, we are all going to be winners!


Texted bucki the news that you are back, and he says to stay in the Challenge too, Matt. Told me to tell you he supports you all the way!

Awesome!


Matt since I have trained with you I can say your are a beast in the gym. 90% of the others pee down their legs watching you. So in my book that makes you a brother Bodybuilder. Yeah you run too much from my limited perspective... I am not an athlete, so blessed as you. To be honest it is I who becomes jealous in your presence. You can run for a long pass, jump for a basketball and take a friendly hit in a backyard football game and not come up lame. Me on the otherhand would end up in the back of a paramedic van.

Welcome back.

Baldie

Great post B; very inspiring and it made me chuckle a little re: paramedic van. I hope you'll make the decision to go to the Arnold--would love to catch up again!


I had to laugh at your reference to the "grind" of training and diet. Welcome to bodybuilding, Matt! Let your push to the Arnold be the inspiration that turns the grind into a joy!

I don't think I used the right terminology. Yes, bodybuilding is a grind, but it shouldn't be the non-fun, fuckin with my head and making me depressed, kind of grind. I believe some people refer to my condition as OCD.


It's grinding me down, too...but the end is in sight! Do it, Matt!

See you there!


The grind...oh chit...tell me about it. 20 months of it........

11-27-2008 Start at a soft 233#
07-17-2009 rock hard (but lacking any mass) 194#
11-27-2009 Start adding mass by any means 197#
01-12-2010 210# and luvin it...lean but far from ready
04-01-2010 Hit 220 goal and start two a day training/cardio
07-04-2010 Mr. Muscle Beach heavy weight Open class 198# and under RIPPED to chit (will be hard to get under...sure do not want into the Super Heavies)
07-23-2010 NPC Nationals Over 70 class 202-204# ultra conditioned and full muscle bellies...should do it.

Retire for good. Write a book. Phew....what a grind.

Baldie

Yes, but you're the consummate professional :D


Love ya Matt
welcome back:hugme:
I meant everything in my pm
anytime you need it... I am there

Thanks Paula! Your encouragement has been great!


Glad to see you are back!

And I hope you do continue to train for the Arnold Challenge.

I'll do what I can.....no promises on that 5%, but I'll do whatever it takes....


I'm going to follow in here too. We all sure fall in a funk. We all have our life regrets. I sure don't look like a bodybuilder either. It is fun and challenging though. Just like most sports. This Arnold challenge seems like a way to get in great shape. Keep pumping!

Any friend of Mike's is a friend of mine! Good to have you along.......I'll be following your journal as well. Thanks man!

[Down4whatever]

Jogged/walked 3.5 miles at lunch and just finished a 6.3 mile jog/fast walk. It's been hell with the weather lately. Last week they actually closed schools because of wind chill, wtf? They never closed schools when I was a kid for temperatures..... Anyway, running in -5 wind chill temps last week was excruciating!

I'm doing a 3 day split doing full body. Tues, Thurs, Sat. The intensity has picked up a little, but the first week was hell getting used to; I found out my body doesn't like stims at 5am, so I'm going with just a bowl of cereal in me to keep nausea at bay. I still have the damn elbow tendonitis (going on 9 months now) and the shoulder issue that's keeping me from doing bench press. I had hoped that the week and 1/2 would heal it right up....:no: It is slightly better, but far from 100%, so I'll just continue to nurse it doing lighter chest work.

For now, I am not counting calories at all, I counted calories for over a year, so I think I can estimate and get there. I honestly don't think I can go back to counting calories without making myself all obsessive again. Anyone have any ideas, shout them out.

[HeavyDutyGuy]

Hey soul searching is good. How are you going to get anywhere or be happy if ypu dont know who you are? (PS too much running kills test levels and that can cause depression too..) Good to see you found some clarity!

[bodyhard]

Welcome back Matt, keep your head up.

[gman]

Idea about eating....go with eyeballing. Eat protein, healthy carb and a little fat every meal, but don't worry about counting to the gram...just normal size portions...maybe even eat 3-4 times a day...shhh don't tell anyone that you can actually do that.

[freebirdmac]

I was busy putting an elliptical together last night and missed this "intervention". Do what you have to do to get your head on straight. No reason to go through life miserable. Keep poking your head in here. No need to stay away from a good support system :)

[Down4whatever]

Hey soul searching is good. How are you going to get anywhere or be happy if you dont know who you are? (PS too much running kills test levels and that can cause depression too..) Good to see you found some clarity!

Thanks James! And thanks for the snippet from the Encyclopedia Bro-tannica, lol :D


Welcome back Matt, keep your head up.

Thanks, John! Looking forward to March 5th for sure.


Idea about eating....go with eyeballing. Eat protein, healthy carb and a little fat every meal, but don't worry about counting to the gram...just normal size portions...maybe even eat 3-4 times a day...shhh don't tell anyone that you can actually do that.

LOL, Mike, we must be on the same wavelength......I wasn't going to mention it, but I have trimmed back to more wholesome meals and fewer.


I was busy putting an elliptical together last night and missed this "intervention". Do what you have to do to get your head on straight. No reason to go through life miserable. Keep poking your head in here. No need to stay away from a good support system :)

Intervention, lol. I am thankkful for many things......I have it better than a good % of the population--I'll just leave it at that. You guys are great!

[Down4whatever]

Gym at 5:40am this morning. Everything was limited rest and fast pace--Went something like this:

BB Lunges
60x10 **5 per leg
95x10
135x20
145x16
155x16

Rack Deads
275x8
315x8
365x8

Leg Extensions
145x15
155x15
165x15

HS ISO High Rows
90x10 **weight is per side
100x10
110x10

Seated OHP
105x8 **I'm constantly amazed at how weak I am at this lift
110x8
115x8 **needed assistance on last 2 reps

HS ISO Incline
55x12 **weight is per side
65x8
70x7
45x12 **dropset

HS ISO Shoulder Press
45x10 **weight is per side
55x10

EZ Bar Curls
50x12
50x12
60x12 **30 seconds rest between sets

Incline DB Curls
30's x 5
30's x 6 **sucked at these

Ran out of time......my 60 minutes was up. I wanted to hit triceps and some calves and traps, but we're still figuring this new program out. Feels good; this is my first day back on cut style eating......back from the 'mini-bulk' muhahahaha

[gman]

I am weak as hell on the shoulder presses to Matt. Even standing and getting to lean a little I am lucky to get 125 up 2-3 reps.

[Down4whatever]

I am weak as hell on the shoulder presses to Matt. Even standing and getting to lean a little I am lucky to get 125 up 2-3 reps.

Yeah, I was up to 10 sets of 155x3 back in August when I was doing Smolov Jr., but that was standing OHP. I thinkit's just one of those movements that you lose strength fast if you don't perform it regularly. Kinda like Bench Press; I hit 305 on Bench press and laid off of it for 3 months--now I'd be lucky to press 260 :(

[gman]

Even on TRT my strength didn't increase...I am just a weak mfer.

I notice TRT helping more with recovery than strength...I don't get so sore anymore.