Hey Swan,
Yeah I trained for 3 years using the "traditional" way and made good gains. I took 3 years off training, then I started working out again about 5 months ago using abbreviated training.
I wasn't following specific training and it was not on purpose. I just did not want to work as hard anymore at age 38. I just reduced the volume and trained 3 times a week. then started shaping my workouts as I read Heavy Duty II, Brawn and Beyond Brawn.
In 5 months so far, I regained my arms size and added an extra 1/2". I'm up 20lbs (some is fat though) and I have not hit a platue on weights yet. Waiting to hit my first platue so I can cycle. I've also taken a week off every 4 to 6 weeks due to work travel during the 5 months. The funny thing is that I am still not lifting as much weight as I used to. I have long way before I reach my previous weights.
I just switched to two times a week training, today was my first day on it. Training Monday and Thursday.
I have Mike's books, I like Beyond Brawn much better. I could only deal with Mike's ego and his lust to be recognized as a phylosopher for so long
Heavy Duty II didn't really have as much information as you will find in Beyond Brawn but it was the first book on the subject and I like it for its "historic/classic" significance if for anything.