Bending the Spoon. Enter the "Shred" Matrix...

GMG760 said:
Ok then...

How many of us here have personal trainers that are on AM? I can think of ONE. Crader. That's all that I personally know of. Should a trainer have to be a bodybuilder or powerlifter? Of course not. Should they have proper knowledge about weight lifting? Of course. You guys make it sound like every trainer has to be Charles Glass or something.

Now the question becomes, who typically uses a trainer, and why do they use them?

The answer is (for a majority): Non-self-motivated fat people who want to lose weight. These people don't need guys and girls like us telling them to do situps and windsprints until they puke. They'd quit after a few days, if not the first. It takes dedication/motivation/ and a whole lot of time invested to be able to train the way we do. I wouldn't call any of us on here the "average gym-goer". So, what these people need is someone to go ahead and get them motivated and to teach them the basics. That's all most trainers are, and most people stop using a trainer once they are ready to add some weight on the barbell and have gained some confidence in themselves. Unless you guys go to a "hardcore" gym (and if you do I am truly envious), most of the trainers don't need the kind of routines and knowledge we do. These people they are training aren't trying to get into contest shape, they are trying to live past 55. Who really give's a sh*t if someone other than yourself lifts light or heavy, that shouldn't be the determining factor in your opinion of their abilities. Maybe it isn't light to them. I mean, if this trainer is walking around spewing BS all day then, fine, she shouldn't train people. But if she simply has different methods than you, give her a break, her clients probably don't have your goals, and probably aren't ready to be at your level of working out.

Lastly, it comes down to liability. If you are training someone and they get hurt while you are training them, well, that is probably gonna be your ass on the chopping block.

If 85% of the people at my gym were working out "too-light" for results, as you described it, then I would change gyms.
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And it's pathetic that trainers have turned into that. I used to be a trainer myself, and quit because I got sick of those lazy, fat, unomotivated people you speak of hiring me, complaining about what I tell them to do, and blaming me for not seeing results.

A trainer NEEDS to know the correct form of exercises. They need to know what fits different individuals. They need to know how to create programs that work for different goals.

My favorite clients were the ones that came to me to setup a new program for them. They'd work with me for a week or two, I'd show them the exercies, write out the rep-ranges and starting weight, and then they'd go off on their own. They didn't have motivational issues. They wanted to be there. They wanted to work. They just didn't have the knowledge themselves, and asked someone who did. THOSE are the people that get let down by crappy trainers.
 
I considered being a trainer, and was actually offered a couple of positions, but after the interviews with all the head trainers, I realized that I knew more than them. It was pathetic. So, I've never worked for a gym - did a little private training in college, but I was a part-time model back then so that was all focused on getting and staying very lean.

BW today worked up to a 3RM. I had actually intended to use NG Decline Bench for the triceps movement, but after our flat bench, I realized we were both too drained for that to be feasible and indicative of any progress.
 
I'm excited to be doing the low-rep Olympic days. Now I can figure out my current maxes. Tomorrow I'll be doing Squats and RDL...Well, 3-5 rep maxes. I don't have a partner to train with, so I'm not going below that.
 
Irish Cannon said:
And it's pathetic that trainers have turned into that. I used to be a trainer myself, and quit because I got sick of those lazy, fat, unomotivated people you speak of hiring me, complaining about what I tell them to do, and blaming me for not seeing results.

A trainer NEEDS to know the correct form of exercises. They need to know what fits different individuals. They need to know how to create programs that work for different goals.

My favorite clients were the ones that came to me to setup a new program for them. They'd work with me for a week or two, I'd show them the exercies, write out the rep-ranges and starting weight, and then they'd go off on their own. They didn't have motivational issues. They wanted to be there. They wanted to work. They just didn't have the knowledge themselves, and asked someone who did. THOSE are the people that get let down by crappy trainers.
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ok, I hear ya.

I personally couldn't do it (training people as a career). Not for a lack of ability, but I would just be angry all the time at people that I didn't think were working hard enough. It doesn't bug me too much to lift around people who aren't training hard, but when I lift WITH someone and they aren't giving it what I think they should, it does get to me, and I start wishing that I was just working out by myself. So yea, I totally can see how it would be a frustrating job to be a trainer.
 
GMG760 said:
Ok then...

How many of us here have personal trainers that are on AM? I can think of ONE. Crader. That's all that I personally know of. Should a trainer have to be a bodybuilder or powerlifter? Of course not. Should they have proper knowledge about weight lifting? Of course. You guys make it sound like every trainer has to be Charles Glass or something.

Now the question becomes, who typically uses a trainer, and why do they use them?

The answer is (for a majority): Non-self-motivated fat people who want to lose weight. These people don't need guys and girls like us telling them to do situps and windsprints until they puke. They'd quit after a few days, if not the first. It takes dedication/motivation/ and a whole lot of time invested to be able to train the way we do. I wouldn't call any of us on here the "average gym-goer". So, what these people need is someone to go ahead and get them motivated and to teach them the basics. That's all most trainers are, and most people stop using a trainer once they are ready to add some weight on the barbell and have gained some confidence in themselves. Unless you guys go to a "hardcore" gym (and if you do I am truly envious), most of the trainers don't need the kind of routines and knowledge we do. These people they are training aren't trying to get into contest shape, they are trying to live past 55. Who really give's a sh*t if someone other than yourself lifts light or heavy, that shouldn't be the determining factor in your opinion of their abilities. Maybe it isn't light to them. I mean, if this trainer is walking around spewing BS all day then, fine, she shouldn't train people. But if she simply has different methods than you, give her a break, her clients probably don't have your goals, and probably aren't ready to be at your level of working out.

Lastly, it comes down to liability. If you are training someone and they get hurt while you are training them, well, that is probably gonna be your ass on the chopping block.

If 85% of the people at my gym were working out "too-light" for results, as you described it, then I would change gyms.
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It really just pisses me off to see a "trainer" teaching a client the wrong form for a movement. I see it too much everywhere. :/

On another note, I was working with 3 reps, like Resolve said. :) Thanks for answering that, just somehow forgot to mention that part.

BTW, I weighed in at about 161 this morning. That is a 1 lb decrease from last week, but as I said before, my weight tends to vary from 158 to 164 depending on the day. :/
 
Shred Matrix: Day 7

I took my first pack of Shred this morning after breakfast, about 30 minutes before hitting the weights. I think it helped me out a lot while I was lifting- primarily in the area of energy and determination. I'm planning to take another pack in about a half hour- 2 packs seems to treat me well. :thumbsup:


Workout:

3 rep max

BB Deadlifts
warmup: 135 lb
1st Set: 185 lb
2nd Set: 195 lb
3rd Set: 205 lb
Final Set (Max): 210 lb

Chest Supported BB Bent Rows
warmup: 45 lb
1st Set: 80 lb
2nd Set: 90 lb
Final Set (Max): 95 lb

DB Hammer Curls
Warmup: 20 lb
1st Set : 25 lb
2nd Set: 30 lb
Final Set (Max): 35 lb

I finished off with Sprints.

I am glad to have gone up 10lb in my Deads since 2 weeks ago. :D I like to be gaining strength on a Calorie deficit- it is a good sign! I almost couldn't make it to 210 lb. I had to really psych myself out. I actually had to move to a different part of the gym where I could see myself in the mirror for my last two sets. Somehow watching myself really helps with lifting heavy.

I went up 5 lb in my Curls! :woohoo: those little biceps are gettin' stronger!

I had this little old lady and her husband staring at me as I was doing my deads. They were sooo funny! their jaws dropped after I lifted 185 lb, and they just stood there in awe. I was beginning to feel uncomfortable, so I looked up and said "hi!", and the lady smiles back and asks, "how much weight is that?"
It probably scared her.

Anyway, I haven't had any carbs in my post workout shake. I've stuck to some protein powder. I'm still getting about 25 carbs peri, and 30 g in my post meal, 40g at breakfast, but the rest of the day I am sticking to about 10 g each meal (in the form of veggies).

Tomorrow I am not lifting, and I am taking Christmas day off as well. I'll be back in the gym on Friday though. :)
 
Resolve said:
They're Olympic DLs. I don't think I've ever shown BW how to Sumo DL...
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The only reason I asked is because most females that I know that lift do really well with a sumo. You guys should give it a try and maybe get her in a competition sometime.
 
stupid question... what's a sumo deadlift?
 
Spread your legs wide, feet a few inches in from the plates at either end of the bar. Grip the bar so your arms are between your knees, slightly narrower than shoulder width.

It lessens the vertical distance the bar has to travel and activates the hams greater than a normal DL. For hammies, though, I prefer RDLs. :)
 
Resolve said:
Spread your legs wide, feet a few inches in from the plates at either end of the bar. Grip the bar so your arms are between your knees, slightly narrower than shoulder width.

It lessens the vertical distance the bar has to travel and activates the hams greater than a normal DL. For hammies, though, I prefer RDLs. :)
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I'm with you on the RDL.

Not a fan of the sumo deadlift.
 
Shred Matrix: Day 8

Merry Christmas, friends! :D

Yesterday Shred seemed to work fine for me. I only took one pack in the morning and it gave me energy for the rest of the day. I was excited spending time with family and forgot to take a second pack.

But I've had a great Christmas, and I think I am the lowest bf of all of my adult female family members. :woohoo:! It's nice to be thin around the holidays. :D Thanks MP!

So, tomorrow I am going to be maxing out with RDL's- my favorite. :D
 
babywifey said:
Shred Matrix: Day 8



But I've had a great Christmas, and I think I am the lowest bf of all of my adult female family members. :woohoo:! It's nice to be thin around the holidays. :D Thanks MP!
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Good thing you're not comparing your bodyfat to that of seven year olds! I don't think that would be healthy for the psyche.

and congratulations! Make sure you tell all of the women in your family this. "I'm fairly certain I have less bodyfat than you."
 
Irish Cannon said:
Good thing you're not comparing your bodyfat to that of seven year olds! I don't think that would be healthy for the psyche.

and congratulations! Make sure you tell all of the women in your family this. "I'm fairly certain I have less bodyfat than you."
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:p you're mean. It does seem silly, but for me it is very exciting. 3 yrs ago I weight 170 lb and I was 33 % bf. I've made a great change over the years.
 
babywifey said:
Shred Matrix: Day 8

Merry Christmas, friends! :D

Yesterday Shred seemed to work fine for me. I only took one pack in the morning and it gave me energy for the rest of the day. I was excited spending time with family and forgot to take a second pack.

But I've had a great Christmas, and I think I am the lowest bf of all of my adult female family members. :woohoo:! It's nice to be thin around the holidays. :D Thanks MP!

So, tomorrow I am going to be maxing out with RDL's- my favorite. :D
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Merry Christmas!
 
babywifey said:
:p you're mean. It does seem silly, but for me it is very exciting. 3 yrs ago I weight 170 lb and I was 33 % bf. I've made a great change over the years
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And looking at your workouts so far :head:, you are about to make even greater changes ! :thumbsup:

Think I'll be starting with max outs soon myself. Getting kind of :yawn: of the hypertrophy routine.
 
Oooh! I wanna' see your maxouts! I like hearing about how strong other women are, it is really inspirational and motivational. Let me know where you post 'em up! :thumbsup:

Shred Matrix: Day 9

Yesterday I took only one pack of Shred Matrix and felt very good all day. I also ate a lot of junk food, but I figure Christmas only comes once a year (I thank God for sending only one Son!).

In regards to Shred I felt great, but I came down with a bad cold yesterday. :( This morning I've been feeling pretty down and I think that maxing out today would be pointless. So I'm gonna relax and resume my two-a-day workout on Monday.

Starting next week I'll be doing only 3 workouts a week rather than four, and instead of a full body split I'm gonna change it to a full body routine. I think I'll get a better workout doing a full body routine, and I won't be so tired or burnt out since it will be only 3 days a week.

I'm looking forward to this! :)
 
dragonfly said:
And looking at your workouts so far :head:, you are about to make even greater changes ! :thumbsup:

Think I'll be starting with max outs soon myself. Getting kind of :yawn: of the hypertrophy routine.
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It's always good to incorporate these into your workout routine, but some people get way too carried away with it. That's why I'm not a huge fan of using Max-OT on a regular basis. People that do tend to have major joint issues later in life. Your body isn't made to handle that type of training for a long period of time.
 
I hope your cold passes quickly.

To help you feel better:
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Shred Matrix: Day 10

Yesterday I took one pack of Shred Matrix in the morning. It woke me up a little bit until noon when I seemed to crash. I was feeling pretty sick the rest of the day, and so I slept a lot. I thought taking another pack would wake me up unnecessarily, so I didn't take one.

I've been eating very low carb today (around 50 g all together), and yesterday as well. I haven't had much of an appetite the last couple days because of my cold, and I've been eating less. Since I didn't work out I think I'll be okay. :)

Today I'm off of Shred. I think it will be a good break for my body. I'll be back on 2 packs MOnday! :D
 
Notes:

As you know I have been off of Shred yesterday and today. I've been recovering from being sick, but my cold seems to have gone away for the most part. My energy levels have been about the same the last couple days as when I am taking Shred.

Tomorrow morning I'll be going to the gym! Can't wait! :D
 
Fat Loss Progress:

I realized that I haven't been posting a whole lot on how my fat loss is going. So here's a little info on that area:

I'm pretty sure that I've lost a bit of fat primarily in my tummy area. :) I'm sure that this has been impeded a little bit by some Christmas splurges, but I am anticipating fat loss to take off especially in the next couple of weeks. Workouts should be intense, and I will be doing a lot more cardio than last week. That should help me out a ton. :thumbsup:
 
Shred Matrix: Day 11

I took Shred about 45 minutes before going to the gym, and once I got there I could tell it had kicked in. I had a huge burst of energy that lasted all through my workout and I am still feeling alert and a little energetic. I also sweated a ton while I was lifting (another sign of Shred kicking in). I really like the bursts of energy that SM provides- especially on workout days. It helps a lot with endurance and even strength while lifting. That is always great to have! :thumbsup:

I still haven't noticed the appetite suppressant that Shred Matrix is supposed to provide. It must be because I'm working out hard and on a cal deficit plus I eat every 2-3 hours, therefore my metabolism is really revved up and my appetite is kept at a high. For me this is a good thing. :thumbsup: I like being hungry- it helps me consume all the 2400 calories that I need every day.

I have noticed a bit of a decrease in sugar and carb cravings while I have been on SM. It is subtle, but I find it easier to avoid carbohydrates than usual. Around Christmas time it is hard to stay away from sweets. While I have splurged a couple times, all the other days I haven't had a very hard time staying away from the sugary junk that sits around every where. I like it! :D

Workout:

5x3

BB Squats (155lb)
supersetted w/ Supinated cable Bent Rows (120lb)

Dips (Bodyweight + 10 lb)
supersetted w/ Hammer Curls (30lb DB's)

3x8

Single Leg Extensions (70lb)
supersetted w/ DB Flies (20lb)

I was surprised by how much I did in my Squats. :D It made me happy! Bent Rows felt great, and Dips were awesome! I am so glad to be able to add weight to my body now. It looks like I'm getting Stronger.

I weighed in at 160 lb this morning. Down by one pound since last Monday, and down 2 lbs since 2 weeks ago. I'm not too concerned with my weight though, it is always varying. :/ At this point I am focusing on what I look like in the mirror, and any changes that I see, as well as Resolve. The calipers are showing all kinds of different numbers at this point...
 
Nice workout, it's a good feeling when you realize you've gained some strength isn't it?!

Keep up the hard work and the changes in your physique will keep coming, remember, weight is just a number. My weight stayed at 175ish for a good two years when I started lifting. My body sure looked different by the end though. Repartitioning weight is just as good of an accomplishment as gaining or losing weight (depending how you look at it) it just isn't reflected by the scale.
 
GMG760 said:
Nice workout, it's a good feeling when you realize you've gained some strength isn't it?!

Keep up the hard work and the changes in your physique will keep coming, remember, weight is just a number. My weight stayed at 175ish for a good two years when I started lifting. My body sure looked different by the end though. Repartitioning weight is just as good of an accomplishment as gaining or losing weight (depending how you look at it) it just isn't reflected by the scale.
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You are right. I haven't been worrying about my weight at all lately, because at this point it doesn't matter, nor does it tell me whether I am losing fat or not.

TexasLifter89 said:
In for the shred matrix. I am seriously tempted to grab this product for my summer cut
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Great to have you along! :D
 
Shred Matrix

At about 12:30 I laid down for a nap. I was so tired from my morning workout, and probably a crash from SM, that I slept for 2 hours. :D It was good and refreshing.

I took a second pack at around 3:30. I've usually had no problem swallowing all of the caps at once (as well as about 4 other pills), but this afternoon I didn't drink enough water and got all of them stuck in my esophagus. Blech! It was not fun. I had to run into the kitchen for another big glass of water to push them all the way down, the entire time choking. :P I'll be sure to drink A LOT of water with the pack next time.

Anyway, I got to the gym at about 4:30 and felt Shred hit me about that time.

Workout:

3x15

Decline Cable Press (35 lb)
supersetted w/ Single Leg Squats (Body Weight)

Seated Calf Raises (90 lb)
supersetted w/ DB Pull Overs (30 lb)

DB Overhead Tricep Extensions (22.5 lb)
supersetted w/ BB Curls (40 lb)

This workout was difficult, especially after this morning. But I got through it pretty well and pushed myself hard. I'm very tired. Looking forward to some good sleep with my X-Dream.
 
Shred Matrix: Day 12

I took my first pack of Shred Matrix at about 10am. I didn't feel any particular energy burst, but I have been pretty alert today. I just took my second dose at 2:30pm. I haven't had much of an appetite today. I didn't weight lift, so perhaps this decrease in activity paired with the "appetite suppressant" of SM has made me less hungry.

Workout:

As I mentioned earlier, I today I do not weight lift because it is an off day. But this morning I did a little fasted cardio, about 45 minutes of steady walking.

I also did half of this body weight metabolic circuit that Resolve found. Here is what it looks like:

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It was pretty difficult! It took about 30 minutes, and I found it more intense that Sprinting. My whole body is still sore from yesterday's workout and it activated many of those sore muscles. :(

Tomorrow morning I'll be going to the gym and lifting heavy, but won't be able to go back tomorrow night for my second workout. Instead I'll be doing some steady cardio. Resolve and I are "calling" (teaching) some classical dancing that will involve lots of jumping around for hours. It should be tiring but fun!

I hope to post up my workout tomorrow, but if that is not possible, I'll have it up on Thursday! :D
 
Turns out that I have internet access up here in the mountains where I'm joining in on a New Year celebration. So I get to post!

Shred Matrix: Day 13


I took Shred about 45 minutes before hitting the gym. It got through my system by the time I had arrived and started my deadlifts. :woohoo: The affects were the usual sweating and energy boost.

Workout:

4x6

Deadlifts (155 lb)
supersetted w/ BB Push Presses (70 lb)

Chinups ( BW)
supersetted w/ Leg Curls (115 lb)

Reverse Curls (35 lb)
supersetted w/ Lateral Raises (22.5 lb)

I was happy to lift 155 for my deads. I'm getting stronger, and definitely losing some fat. I have some progress pics that I'll be posting momentarily. Hope it shows up a little for you. :)
 
You're looking great, BW! Excellent job! That back of yours looks incredible. Not only is it real muscular, but I can definitely see fat melting off of it.

Keep it up! You know I'll be here. :thumbsup:

Happy New Year to you and Resolve!
 
babywifey said:
I'm maxing this week. Here are today's numbers:

Squats:
Warmup: 115
1st set: 135
2nd set: 155
3rd set: 165
Final Set (Max): 170

BB Bench Press:
Warmup: 75 lb
1st Set: 95 lb
2nd Set: 105
Final Set (Max): 115 lb

DB Tricep Extensions:
Warmup: 17.5 lb
1st set: 25 lb
2nd set: 27.5 lb
3rd Set: 30 lb
Final Set (Max): 32.5 lb



3 rep max

BB Deadlifts
warmup: 135 lb
1st Set: 185 lb
2nd Set: 195 lb
3rd Set: 205 lb
Final Set (Max): 210 lb

Chest Supported BB Bent Rows
warmup: 45 lb
1st Set: 80 lb
2nd Set: 90 lb
Final Set (Max): 95 lb

DB Hammer Curls
Warmup: 20 lb
1st Set : 25 lb
2nd Set: 30 lb
Final Set (Max): 35 lb
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I'd be really surprised if there was no serious fat melting/muscle building process going on with all this weight BW is lifting :head:

AWESOME job, those are great numbers BW ! :box:

I'll let you know when I post my max outs :)
 
looks good BW! I am trying to get my girlfriend back to logging her routines on here. Keep it up! It's always cool to see women pushing weight up with the guys!
 
babywifey said:
Fat Loss Progress:

I realized that I haven't been posting a whole lot on how my fat loss is going. So here's a little info on that area:

I'm pretty sure that I've lost a bit of fat primarily in my tummy area. :) I'm sure that this has been impeded a little bit by some Christmas splurges, but I am anticipating fat loss to take off especially in the next couple of weeks. Workouts should be intense, and I will be doing a lot more cardio than last week. That should help me out a ton. :thumbsup:
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Good to hear the progress! we all splurge during the holidays! hell I just stopped today...hahahaha:lol:
 
Thanks for the encouragement, everyone. :D I appreciate it a lot.

It is good to know that some of you see a bit of progress. :)

IC- I've never known how muscular my back is until this log! Looking at pictures of it really shows me what I look like...I just can't turn my head around that far to see it! :lol: glad you see the "fat melting off".

Dragonfly: Once again, it's great to have a girl following my log! I'm happy that you like my Max OT. Looking forward to yours! :D

I've kept splurging down to a minimum. I think that I've done pretty well for the holidays. Mostly I've been having a little junk here and there. I'll be cutting my splurging down even more now that all that temptation is going away!
 
Shred Matrix: Day 14

Yesterday I took one pack of Shred Matrix. I didn't do a whole lot in terms of Working out. I played volleyball for a continuous 2 hours, so I got a bit of exercise in, but that was about it. Had a fun New Year! Hope you all did too. :)

Day 15


Today I woke up feeling a bit sick. I've relapsed somewhat because of lack of sleep and the cold weather I was in during New Years Eve. :(

I took my Shred Matrix this morning with breakfast and left for the gym. Affects of Shred are staying the same, nothing new to note on.

Workout:

5x5

Swiss Ball Squats w/ DB's (35 lb DB's)
supersetted w/ Rear Deltoid Raises (20 lb DB's)

BB Cleans (80 lb)
supersetted w/ BB Bench Press (95 lb)

4x7

DB Lunges (32.5 lb, 37.5 lb)
supersetted w/ BB Curls (45lb)

I had a tough time with this workout. I was having a difficult time breathing (due to my cold) and I felt weaker than usual. By the time I got to my Cleans I was feeling pretty drained, but refused to quit with 2 supersets. I pushed my way through the Lunges, and thought that I did well, especially considering how I felt. I still wish I could have made my cleans 90 lb's though. :( there is room for improvement- I'll be able to make it when I feel better.

I'm still planning to workout tonight. I'll be sleeping for most of this afternoon probably! :) I'm feeling DRAINED!

*Sorry for not posting yesterday. :( I didn't really have a chance to get on the internet with all the parties I was attending.
 
babywifey said:
Thanks for the encouragement, everyone. :D I appreciate it a lot.

It is good to know that some of you see a bit of progress. :)

IC- I've never known how muscular my back is until this log! Looking at pictures of it really shows me what I look like...I just can't turn my head around that far to see it! :lol: glad you see the "fat melting off".

Dragonfly: Once again, it's great to have a girl following my log! I'm happy that you like my Max OT. Looking forward to yours! :D

I've kept splurging down to a minimum. I think that I've done pretty well for the holidays. Mostly I've been having a little junk here and there. I'll be cutting my splurging down even more now that all that temptation is going away!
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It's funny how easy it is to be good because we don't purchase the junk food. Once it is already purchased, then out sitting in front of you... well, it gets a bit harder doesn't it?

You're doing great, keep up the hard work and you'll keep seeing these great results!
 
GMG760 said:
It's funny how easy it is to be good because we don't purchase the junk food. Once it is already purchased, then out sitting in front of you... well, it gets a bit harder doesn't it?

You're doing great, keep up the hard work and you'll keep seeing these great results!
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The funny thing is that we have lots of candy and junk food that has been given us for Christmas and is in the house, but I'm not tempted by that. It is when I am out at parties hanging with friends having a good time that I want to top it off with the chocolate, or cheesecake or Chex Mix that's laying out...
 
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