Segansational's Motivation Log

[Segansational]

Where do you apply your carnitine? by default I had historically always used shoulders/arms but lately have been using torso and I think I like it.

Sorry the travel is beating you up so much, I understand that very much. I used to love it and tried to fly as much as possible, never as long as you lately, but 2-3x per month for a day to 3 max. I'd look for customers in regions I wanted to fly to even, lol. But over time when your heart is at home it gets harder and harder... hope you can find some enjoyment in it, its sorta a double edged blessing to be able to (and have to) travel so much.

I apply my carnitine gel either to chest/traps on upper body days, or quads/thighs for lower or cardio days. Unsure it makes a difference placement wise locally, but I figure if so might as well get close to the target muscles. But also rotation helps ensure I don't get any skin irritation over time.

Yeah, don't get me wrong - while work travel is busy - I always build in time for at least one good meal, or lately a cool gyms exploration. So that is a plus side that others I know would certainly welcome. But of course they don't see all the prep, stress, and work to ensure that the meetings go off without a hitch that allows me to get there.

Everything you are saying makes complete sense, trust me, I was on the burnout train there for a bit. The last 3 months of last year and the first 3 months of this year was pretty ridiculous for me as well. Luckily I get the benefit of the OT, but it doesn't change that you are running the rat race. Also, I do not have young children, so that is a major difference. Being away from them when they are growing, or feeling too tired to be present when you get a chance to be with them is very hard, and makes you feel inadequate. So let me assure you that you are in no way inadequate, and your children are learning a valuable lesson about work ethic, and what it can take to be successful. Don't think this is wasted time, you are still parenting in your actions, and teaching in your absence. All of it will be valuable to them when they become adults.

You are doing a great job Dad, just give yourself the grace your children do!!!!

I really appreciate these words Kleen. I hope they view it that way when they look back. I definitely try to be the "modern man" when it comes to being present, particularly since we're in a dual working parent household, and I want to be there with my kids for all of their moments - however small - even if that's just being there when they get home to hear about their school day. To me that's somewhat table stakes, so I'm not looking for applause from society / anyone, but it is certainly harder some days than others and always comparing myself to what could I have done better.

Man I feel for you that is not easy and makes it so hard on us men. We have to work and provide so we stay the course but man it sucks all the sacrifices.


A great looking session to get back into it !!

Thanks! I'm looking at all of yours and Dustin's farm life and starting to think maybe that's the way to go!!

But then I remember how much I actually dislike yard work. Doesn't help when you sacrifice your afternoon on a Sunday to put in 4 new large plants for a garden wall and then your wife comes out to tell you they're in the wrong spot!

 

[MrKleen73]

But then I remember how much I actually dislike yard work. Doesn't help when you sacrifice your afternoon on a Sunday to put in 4 new large plants for a garden wall and then your wife comes out to tell you they're in the wrong spot!

Oh Man!!! Talk about having to manage temper and frustration... Internally "Oh you don't like them there Honey, how about I plant them up your" and externally, hopefully you muster a solid and reasonable response that doesn't land you in a fight.

 

[Segansational]

Quick mid-week update:

Maybe unsurprisingly my fitbit readiness score right now has been trending down and looked pretty low. Also been noticing a higher than normal awake period throughout the night, but still hitting over benchmark deep sleep stages, so maybe net-net it evens out.

Did ~36 mins of cardio on the bike this AM, ~187 cals burned. Unsure exactly because for some reason my fitbit doesn't register "spinning" right on my stationary bike. It always shuts off part way through.

Sweat like crazy though!

Used 1 pump Napalm Xtreme applied to my stomach, 2 pumps L-carnitine gel on my quads/hams. Fueled it all with some caffeinated aminos (175mg caffeine) and 250mg PEA.

Mid-week weight check: 149.0#
BF: 13.3%

Back down to pre-vacation weight! This is actually slightly under (assume water weight). Nice to see this though, so we're back on track. Like I said, from here we start leveling out while increasing protein & cals slightly.

 

[Dustin07]

I apply my carnitine gel either to chest/traps on upper body days, or quads/thighs for lower or cardio days. Unsure it makes a difference placement wise locally, but I figure if so might as well get close to the target muscles. But also rotation helps ensure I don't get any skin irritation over time.

yeah man I agree. I don't really believe in spot targeting too much, but I keep reading more bro science suggesting carnitine to the ab area is more effective so I've been doing that lately. I sorta think it actually is having a positive effect though.

Thanks! I'm looking at all of yours and Dustin's farm life and starting to think maybe that's the way to go!!

But then I remember how much I actually dislike yard work.

I mean yeah its a lot of work but its fulfilling and you always go to bed tired lol. Not enough time in the day to stress over social media or geo political strife. Plus actual yard work is the very small easy part lol. But I remember when I was 19 or 20 in my first apartment thinking "I just want my own yard to mow" so now days anytime I feel down about having to do a little yard work I remind myself how much I wanted it when I was younger... For me, the harder work in 2026 was actually winter time prepping the property for the summer grow season. that will be a lot more laid back for me when she takes over the majority of the gardening. my job was mostly to get the garden built, soiled, fertilized (manure), and irrigated. she's the green thumb now!

Doesn't help when you sacrifice your afternoon on a Sunday to put in 4 new large plants for a garden wall and then your wife comes out to tell you they're in the wrong spot!

ahahaha we've all been there. I make my wife follow me around when it's time to do this, for this very reason. I was planting those grapes for her this week after work and I'd drop the bucket where she said, dig the hole, then have her approve the orientation of the grapes before I planted for this very reason

Back down to pre-vacation weight! This is actually slightly under (assume water weight). Nice to see this though, so we're back on track. Like I said, from here we start leveling out while increasing protein & cals slightly.

awesome, that didn't take long!

 

[Hyde]

Congratulations on keeping your cut progress! This is really great, getting to look how you preferred for your trip but also not having to give it up after all your work.

 

[Segansational]

Congratulations on keeping your cut progress! This is really great, getting to look how you preferred for your trip but also not having to give it up after all your work.

Yeah, I'm honestly really pleased how this all went. It gives me confidence too that I can throw down / kick it into high gear when needed. I'm still not stage lean or anything by any stretch of the imagination, but right now that's not the goal.

M4, W3, D4

Working sets,
Deadlifts, 2 sets
Narrow Grip Pulldowns, 2 sets
Inverted Rows, 2 sets
Machine Preacher Curls, 3 sets
Cable resistance band cross body laterals, 4 sets

1 hr 6 mins, 347 cals.

Pre: 1.5 scoops Mr White, 1g Choline Citrate, 2 pumps L-carnitine gel, 3 caps PrimeXT, 2 caps Pepti-Plex
Intra: Same as usual.

Notes
Wish me luck fellas. Another interview opportunity this afternoon! Just need to approach confidently and put my best foot forward. But also reminding myself that regardless of the outcome, my title is not a reflection of my worth.

 

[gphagan1]

Hope your interview goes well, and glad you have the right mindset.

 

[MrKleen73]

Get in there and toot that horn Sir! Good luck!

 

[Dustin07]

good luck homie!

 

[akboom87]

Yeah, I'm honestly really pleased how this all went. It gives me confidence too that I can throw down / kick it into high gear when needed. I'm still not stage lean or anything by any stretch of the imagination, but right now that's not the goal.

M4, W3, D4

Working sets,
Deadlifts, 2 sets
Narrow Grip Pulldowns, 2 sets
Inverted Rows, 2 sets
Machine Preacher Curls, 3 sets
Cable resistance band cross body laterals, 4 sets

1 hr 6 mins, 347 cals.

Pre: 1.5 scoops Mr White, 1g Choline Citrate, 2 pumps L-carnitine gel, 3 caps PrimeXT, 2 caps Pepti-Plex
Intra: Same as usual.

Notes
Wish me luck fellas. Another interview opportunity this afternoon! Just need to approach confidently and put my best foot forward. But also reminding myself that regardless of the outcome, my title is not a reflection of my worth.

Great session and hope it went well today man!!

 

[Segansational]

Another session in the books.

Today was focused on leg catch up again. Basically there's 1-2 leg exercises per day on my split since it's meant to be maintenance only, and due to time I usually don't get to them on the prescribed days. So, I end up piling them together for a separate added leg day.

Working sets:
SLDLs, 2 sets
Seated Leg Ext, 2 sets
BB squats, 1 set
TRX calf raises, plate raised, 2 sets

Ab work:
Incline crunches, 2 sets
Russian medicine ball twists, 2 sets

~57 mins, 117 cals according to fitbit.

End of week weigh-in: 150.4#
BF: 13.5%

Notes
Nothing too heavy this AM to finish out the week. But physique wise, feel like my legs are really starting to take on some good shape & detail even with minimal work. I can see all the muscle fibers firing as I flex my quads. It never shows up well enough on videos though. Also, arms are looking visibly leaner on biceps flex with a hint of that split biceps peak that I get when I diet down enough. All in all, feeling good heading into the weekend!

 

[MrKleen73]

Sounds like things are going well and getting that biceps split is a fun moment in the diet!!! I forgot, do you intend to do maintenance and then go deeper into a cut, or try to regain some mass?

 

[Segansational]

Sounds like things are going well and getting that biceps split is a fun moment in the diet!!! I forgot, do you intend to do maintenance and then go deeper into a cut, or try to regain some mass?

It's a great question. I am loosely going maintenance probably the next two weeks - more damage control than anything else - honestly because of my chaotic work schedule.

I'm on the road the next two weeks (so living out of hotels/hotel gym/what I can find) at minimum. I fly to Pittsburgh today until Thurs afternoon. So I know my normal eating and workout consistency may all take a bit of a hit.

After that I think I need to evaluate how I've managed. It's actually - dare I say - been "fun" getting leaner and seeing visible changes. I haven't struggled as much with food choices and hunger, but also I mentally hate being this light. So 70/30 decision is still lean bulk after this 2 week period.

 

[Segansational]

Had a kid free day with my wife up in NYC yesterday. Very rare occasion that we do this sort of thing just her and I. Honestly, it's a lot of work to make it happen since we don't have family support structure often able to step in. But it was a great day! Got a good brunch in, saw a show, had some NY pizza and came home to the kids in bed asleep. Long day, but a fun one.

M4, W4, D1 - 0 RIR

Working sets,
Close Grip BP, 3 sets
Low incline DB Flys, 2 sets
Machine Press, 2 sets
EZ bar Skull Crushers, 3 sets

1 hr, 1 mins, 172 cals.

Pre: 1 Scoop NOtorious Rage, 1g Choline Citrate, 2 pumps L-carnitine gel.
Intra: Same as usual.

Notes

Good chest pump this AM.

My Bluetooth headphones were dead, phone barely charged overnight, so no music this AM to WO with. Left forearm/elbow is still giving me trouble, so wore my brace and elbow sleeves this AM. Will be smart and pack them this trip.

On the work front:I thought my interview again went as well as it could and seemed to get a good reception from the hiring manager. I won't know what I'm up against for probably the next two weeks though. So, actually @MrKleen73 that may also dictate my next physique / strength goal decision point too, if I am back to real grinding on the job hunting front or not. But planning to do a bit of external networking at this upcoming meeting the next few days too, so we'll see if I can make the most of it.

 

[Hyde]

Sounds like a nice day with the wife. Hope things move in the right direction on the career front!

 

[gphagan1]

Glad you and your wife were able to get away and have a date….those are so needed in a relationship. And NYC is a true uptown date, sounds great.

 

[Jimbabwe]

Had a kid free day with my wife up in NYC yesterday. Very rare occasion that we do this sort of thing just her and I. Honestly, it's a lot of work to make it happen since we don't have family support structure often able to step in. But it was a great day! Got a good brunch in, saw a show, had some NY pizza and came home to the kids in bed asleep. Long day, but a fun one.

M4, W4, D1 - 0 RIR

Working sets,
Close Grip BP, 3 sets
Low incline DB Flys, 2 sets
Machine Press, 2 sets
EZ bar Skull Crushers, 3 sets

1 hr, 1 mins, 172 cals.

Pre: 1 Scoop NOtorious Rage, 1g Choline Citrate, 2 pumps L-carnitine gel.
Intra: Same as usual.

Notes

Good chest pump this AM.

My Bluetooth headphones were dead, phone barely charged overnight, so no music this AM to WO with. Left forearm/elbow is still giving me trouble, so wore my brace and elbow sleeves this AM. Will be smart and pack them this trip.

On the work front:I thought my interview again went as well as it could and seemed to get a good reception from the hiring manager. I won't know what I'm up against for probably the next two weeks though. So, actually @MrKleen73 that may also dictate my next physique / strength goal decision point too, if I am back to real grinding on the job hunting front or not. But planning to do a bit of external networking at this upcoming meeting the next few days too, so we'll see if I can make the most of it.

Do you live close to the city?

 

[MrKleen73]

Completely understandable, you are in a pretty decent spot to go in either direction. If you are able to maintain a deficit you will be good for a rebound, and if you go maintenance it will be a good place to start something like a 150-200 calorie increase for some lean gains while maintaining your composition pretty well. I hope everything works out for you on the job front. I know you have been putting in the effort and answering when opportunity knocks. So you are at least doing the right things to make it happen for you!

 

[Hyde]

I’d say the big thing is to maintain control of your diet, whichever way you want to go - if you do that, you’ll be happy regardless because things won’t go off the rails.

 

[Segansational]

Hotel Workout

Did a combo of my prescribed exercises for today plus a few add ons.

Working sets,
Machine Shoulder Press, 4 sets
V-bar triceps pressdowns, 2 sets
Smith Machine BB Rows, 2 sets
Machine Lat Pulldowns, 2 sets
Neutral Grip Pullups, 3 sets
TRX Biceps Curls, 2 sets

57:55, 252 cals.

Followed up with 10 mins in the sauna.

Pre: 1/2 packet El Jefe, 3 caps PrimeXT, 2 caps Pepti-Plex.

Notes
Terrible sleep last night. Always happens that first night in a hotel. Even took a melatonin sleep gummy. Basically woke up at like 2 in the AM and never fully fell back asleep. Readiness score is like 15, LOL. Going to be a long day...

Also noting that my stomach has been off the past few days. We've definitely had some type of bug in our house and it was just my turn I guess. Not hindering my daily activities, but uncomfortable.

Positives, the gym here is fairly well equipped. Plus anytime there's a sauna I will take advantage of it!

 

[gphagan1]

You still got a good workout in even after the terrible sleep.

 

[Dustin07]

solid gym day for hotel gym!
yeah those sleep cycles / routines are really hard to keep dialed when travelling. I always struggle to fall asleep that first night on a work trip like that in a weird hard bed.

 

[Segansational]

Unsure what it is, but lately I can't seem to get my phone up over a 60% charge. It's not that old either. I probably just need to reboot it one of these days soon, but something is causing a drain... what phone are you going to get?

 

[Dustin07]

Unsure what it is, but lately I can't seem to get my phone up over a 60% charge. It's not that old either. I probably just need to reboot it one of these days soon, but something is causing a drain... what phone are you going to get?

my phones rarely last the full 2 years. I just did a warranty replacement on my pixel 9 pro xl for $5 recently cause the 11 comes out in august so I'm going to try to make mine work until then. I looked at samsungs etc but with my account I'll get the free upgrade that covers all of the pixel pro 11, and even though I think iphones and samsungs have better cameras for upclose pictures, the telephoto on the pixel is absolutely insane. sometimes I zoom in to take pics of things I can't see with my naked eyes like binoculars.

 

[Segansational]

You still got a good workout in even after the terrible sleep.

Thanks man. New place and new equipment always gets me to do a bit extra when I can!

solid gym day for hotel gym!
yeah those sleep cycles / routines are really hard to keep dialed when travelling. I always struggle to fall asleep that first night on a work trip like that in a weird hard bed.

Last night's sleep was better. Still my mind was racing with everything I need to prep for today, but I called it an earlier night and got an extra hour plus 45 mins more REM than the first night.

Got up this AM for some cardio and abs. Anytime I travel and do cardio there's usually a peloton now. Really the only time I use it, but got in a good 20 mins ride, 5.15 miles, 150 cals. Followed by some knee raises, medicine ball crunches and Russian medicine ball twists.

Let's make it a productive day fellas!

 

[akboom87]

Go get it man! Looks like you are making the best of the traveling and still getting it done

 

[Dustin07]

Got up this AM for some cardio and abs. Anytime I travel and do cardio there's usually a peloton now. Really the only time I use it, but got in a good 20 mins ride, 5.15 miles, 150 cals. Followed by some knee raises, medicine ball crunches and Russian medicine ball twists.

this is next level stuff man. getting up early to get your work in before doing work is great drive and discipline. I love a morning session when I travel but usually still not going to happen until at least 8am and of course even then only if work/appts don't happen until much later!

 

[Segansational]

my phones rarely last the full 2 years. I just did a warranty replacement on my pixel 9 pro xl for $5 recently cause the 11 comes out in august so I'm going to try to make mine work until then. I looked at samsungs etc but with my account I'll get the free upgrade that covers all of the pixel pro 11, and even though I think iphones and samsungs have better cameras for upclose pictures, the telephoto on the pixel is absolutely insane. sometimes I zoom in to take pics of things I can't see with my naked eyes like binoculars.

I've been rocking Samsung for a while now. The camera on them are definitely nice. My wife notices the difference between our two phone picture qualities.

Go get it man! Looks like you are making the best of the traveling and still getting it done

Thanks AK, just trying to stay consistent!

this is next level stuff man. getting up early to get your work in before doing work is great drive and discipline. I love a morning session when I travel but usually still not going to happen until at least 8am and of course even then only if work/appts don't happen until much later!

Today was ROUGH getting up. Almost said no, but allowed myself to snooze a bit and then made myself get out of bed.

Between being at the end of a travel week, and at the tail end of this mesocycle (Week 4, 0 RIR) my readiness scores are super low right now. They've steadily been declining over the meso - as is expected - so when deload comes, I'll be ready!

Today's Hotel Gym Workout:

Took advantage of the leg machines I usually don't have access to at home, even though the original plan was to do some benching.

Working sets,
Seated leg curl, 2 sets
Seated leg extensions, 2 sets
Seated calf machine, 3 sets
Leg Press Machine, 3 sets
DB SLDLs, 3 sets

46 mins, 119 cals.

Followed by 15 mins in the sauna.

Pre: 1/2 packet of El Jefe, 3 caps PrimeXT, 2 caps Pepti-Plex.
Post: 1 bottle of MuscleMilk - found out the gift shop had these so snagged one. Protein options have been pretty low here at this meeting. But dinners have been largely making up for lack of it at breakfast.

 

[Segansational]

M4, Wk4, D3

Working sets,
Bench Press, 2 sets
Low incline DB Press, 2 sets
Machine Chest Press, 2 sets

1 hr, 135 cals.

Pre: 1 scoop Total War, 3 caps PrimeXT, 2 caps Pepti-Plex, 2 pumps L-carnitine gel, 1g Choline Citrate.
Intra: 1 scoop EAA9, 1 scoop R1 Lytes, 1.5g Creatine HCl, 25g Karbolyn.

Notes
Was good to be home and sleep in my own bed last night. Still tough getting up this AM, so tomorrow's off day will be much needed! And while I didn't hit all of my prescribed reps today - I definitely didn't feel strong - it was good, solid work today.

End of week weigh-in: 152.4 (+0.6#)
BF: 13.7% (+/- 0%)

No significant weight increase even with the steak, tacos, and seafood dinners I had dining out.

 

[gphagan1]

M4, Wk4, D3

Working sets,
Bench Press, 2 sets
Low incline DB Press, 2 sets
Machine Chest Press, 2 sets

1 hr, 135 cals.

Pre: 1 scoop Total War, 3 caps PrimeXT, 2 caps Pepti-Plex, 2 pumps L-carnitine gel, 1g Choline Citrate.
Intra: 1 scoop EAA9, 1 scoop R1 Lytes, 1.5g Creatine HCl, 25g Karbolyn.

Notes
Was good to be home and sleep in my own bed last night. Still tough getting up this AM, so tomorrow's off day will be much needed! And while I didn't hit all of my prescribed reps today - I definitely didn't feel strong - it was good, solid work today.

End of week weigh-in: 152.4 (+0.6#)
BF: 13.7% (+/- 0%)

No significant weight increase even with the steak, tacos, and seafood dinners I had dining out.

Good job steadily getting your workout in on your trip. Looks like your metabolism is running strong.

 

[Hyde]

Nice work getting the travel in without blowing away your hard diet work. It’s good to be home I’m sure

 

[Segansational]

Well, only negative news to report this AM:

Zero workouts had this weekend. Was planning to at least get one cardio session in, but my body told me no. Needed the sleep/recovery from this past week I guess.

Found out I didn't get the job I wanted. So back to the drawing board again.

Had to work a good chunk of yesterday to get ready for the meeting I'm running this week, so will be away from home for the next 3 days. Thankfully I'll be walking into deload week, so even if I have limited gym equipment it shouldn't be too bad.

Have had to fight the urge to self sabotage a little bit lately. Just trying to remind myself of the bigger picture in life and everything else that comes with it.

 

[Segansational]

The one thing I can control is how and whether I show up. So I will.

M4, Wk4, D4

Working sets,
Deadlifts, DOH grip, 2 sets
Narrow Grip Lat Pulldowns, 2 sets
Inverted Rows, 2 sets
Machine Preacher Curls, 4 sets

56:30, 188 cals.

Pre: 1.5 scoops Mr. White, 1g Choline Citrate, 3 caps PrimeXT, 2 caps Pepti-Plex, 2 pumps L-carnitine gel.
Intra: 1 scoop EAA9, 1 scoop R1 Lytes, 1.5g Creatine HCl, 25g Karbolyn.

Notes
Good pulls this AM. Last 0 RIR day and now walking into my deload.

 

[gphagan1]

Well, only negative news to report this AM:

Zero workouts had this weekend. Was planning to at least get one cardio session in, but my body told me no. Needed the sleep/recovery from this past week I guess.

Found out I didn't get the job I wanted. So back to the drawing board again.

Had to work a good chunk of yesterday to get ready for the meeting I'm running this week, so will be away from home for the next 3 days. Thankfully I'll be walking into deload week, so even if I have limited gym equipment it shouldn't be too bad.

Have had to fight the urge to self sabotage a little bit lately. Just trying to remind myself of the bigger picture in life and everything else that comes with it.

Sorry you didn’t get the job. Just keep working hard and doing a good job and that door will open for you.

 

[MrKleen73]

Well, only negative news to report this AM:

Zero workouts had this weekend. Was planning to at least get one cardio session in, but my body told me no. Needed the sleep/recovery from this past week I guess.

Found out I didn't get the job I wanted. So back to the drawing board again.

Had to work a good chunk of yesterday to get ready for the meeting I'm running this week, so will be away from home for the next 3 days. Thankfully I'll be walking into deload week, so even if I have limited gym equipment it shouldn't be too bad.

Have had to fight the urge to self sabotage a little bit lately. Just trying to remind myself of the bigger picture in life and everything else that comes with it.

Sorry you did not get the job. Have you asked for feedback on what you need to improve or what they saw weaknesses in so you can try to address them for future roles? If they don't offer that, I would definitely ask someone if at all possible. Just showing earnest interest there could be worth brownie points.

 

[akboom87]

Keep your head up brother, try for what we can and succeed in the things we can control solid looking session!!

 

[Segansational]

Sorry you did not get the job. Have you asked for feedback on what you need to improve or what they saw weaknesses in so you can try to address them for future roles? If they don't offer that, I would definitely ask someone if at all possible. Just showing earnest interest there could be worth brownie points.

Yeah, every time. The good and bad of it is there's really nothing that I'm lacking. It always has come down to me and the other individual who just slightly edges me out. This time they were looking with someone from outside, for "different" thinking. Basically, my years of direct experience was not an advantage in this case.

Not going to lie, it's been tough. That's 3 in a row for me getting the interview, but not getting the role. It's a bit disheartening and yesterday was just a really tough day overall for me considering the home & work stress on top of it all.

But we push through. That's all we can do, get knocked down 5 times and get up 6.

May is Mental Health Awareness month. Check in on your strong friends too...

---

Back at it this AM for one more WO before heading out on the next work trip this afternoon.

M4, WK5, D1 - 8 RIR

Deload week.

Working sets,
Bench Press, 1 set
DB incline flys, 1 set
DB incline press, 1 set
EZ skull crushers, 1 set
Standing DB press, 1 set
BB Squats, 2 sets

54 mins, 140 cals.

Pre: 1 scoop Total War, 1g Choline Citrate, 2 pumps L-carnitine gel, 3 caps PrimeXT, 2 caps Pepti-Plex.
Intra: Same as yesterday.

Notes
Plan to do a cardio session tomorrow morning before the all day meeting if I can muster up the energy. Plus hopefully another WO Thursday morning before coming home.

 

[Segansational]

Yesterday I did a 20 mins Peloton bike ride, 4.79 mi, 131 cals - followed by 12:50 min, 0.59 mi walk for another 95 cals - outside on the riverfront pier just in front of our hotel. Great view along the water and the old boats that are kept docked here, even though very windy!


Today's workout was very shoddy. The little gym here is so small and underequipped, but here it is for Deload Day #2:

Single Arm Kettlebell Rows
Neutral Grip Pull ups
DB curls - These really bugged my left arm.
Single arm triceps pulldown
Flat DB Press
DB SLDLs
Calf raises (on bench)

35 mins, 107 cals.

Followed up with 15 mins in the dry sauna.

Pre: 1 packet Nitraflex, 2 pumps L-carnitine gel, 3 caps PrimeXT, 2 caps Pepti-Plex
Intra: 1/2 bottle of vitamin water
Post:

Notes
Long day into evening event last night. Meeting this AM until around 12:30 or so, but then I plan to grab a cheesesteak from my favorite little shack that's a stone's throw from here for lunch.

 

[gphagan1]

Yesterday I did a 20 mins Peloton bike ride, 4.79 mi, 131 cals - followed by 12:50 min, 0.59 mi walk for another 95 cals - outside on the riverfront pier just in front of our hotel. Great view along the water and the old boats that are kept docked here, even though very windy!


Today's workout was very shoddy. The little gym here is so small and underequipped, but here it is for Deload Day #2:

Single Arm Kettlebell Rows
Neutral Grip Pull ups
DB curls - These really bugged my left arm.
Single arm triceps pulldown
Flat DB Press
DB SLDLs
Calf raises (on bench)

35 mins, 107 cals.

Followed up with 15 mins in the dry sauna.

Pre: 1 packet Nitraflex, 2 pumps L-carnitine gel, 3 caps PrimeXT, 2 caps Pepti-Plex
Intra: 1/2 bottle of vitamin water
Post:

Notes
Long day into evening event last night. Meeting this AM until around 12:30 or so, but then I plan to grab a cheesesteak from my favorite little shack that's a stone's throw from here for lunch. View attachment 260479

That’s a good picture, and a great view.

 

[Segansational]

That’s a good picture, and a great view.

Again, I try to remind myself when I can that while my career is high stress, more time away from home than I'd like, etc. - to enjoy the perks (like that view!) and things I get to experience and how I can provide for my family because of it.

M4, Wk5, D3

Working sets,
Leg extensions, 2 sets
BB Squats, 2 sets
DB SLDLs (again), 2 sets
TRX plate raised calf raises, 2 sets

41:29, <100 cals according to my fitbit.

Pre: 1 scoop Total War, 1g Choline Citrate, 2 pumps L-carnitine gel, 3 caps PrimeXT, 2 caps Pepti-Plex.
Intra: Same as usual.

Weight: 152.2# - weight has been generally holding steady here for about the past two weeks since coming off vacation. With traveling this has been good maintenance.
BF: 13.7%

Notes
Still having a tough time waking up. Ended up finally getting out of bed just before 6 this AM. My lower back has been bugging me a bit since mid-week biking. But since my arm also has been an issue I opted to start today with leg focus.

Still have one more deload day to get through chest/tris/DLs before moving onto my next mesocycle.

Tomorrow however will be a full off day from the gym to sleep in and recover, and then prep for celebrating the Mom's in our lives.
View attachment 260482

 

[MrKleen73]

Yeah, it definitely helps to keep a spirit of gratitude.

 

[Segansational]

Been having a bit of a rough go of it lately when it comes to workouts and such.

Just been feeling "off" again. A bit of that malaise and lethargy physically / mentally. Plus with the left arm issue and fatigue it's been tougher to motivate myself to get out of bed in the morning. No workouts this weekend including skipping the planned cardio session.

Had that weird dizziness / vertigo spell on Saturday. So yeah, body just seems to be rebelling lately... lower back strain is slightly still there, but only low level thankfully.

M4, Wk5, D3/4 - 8 RIR

Working sets,
Bench Press, 1 set
Low Incline DB Press, 1 set
Machine Chest Press, 1 set
Overhead BB Triceps Ext, 2 sets
Deadlifts, 1 set
Lat Pulldowns, 1 set
Machine Preacher Curls, 2 sets
Resistance band cross body laterals, 2 sets

57:26, 141 cals.

Pre: 1 scoop Ignition Switch, 1g Choline Citrate, 1 pump Napalm Xtreme, 2 pumps L-carnitine gel, 3 caps PrimeXT, 2 caps Pepti-Plex
Intra: Same as usual. Finished up my last dose of Creatine HCl though.

Notes
Finished up my last deload day a combo of exercises to close out. Tomorrow I have to travel up to NYC, so catching an early train means no workout in the AM. But going to catch some pickleball in the afternoon for some cardio. Wednesday will begin a new mesocycle if all goes as planned.

Weigh-in: 154.2# (+2.0#)
BF: 14.0% (+0.3%)

 

[Hyde]

I finished my bottle of SNS creatine hcl caps this morning myself I still have a bunch of powder, which is delicious and what I put in my training water, but man I love the caps for convenience on off-days.

 

[Segansational]

Long post incoming! TLDR: Body feels effed up. Started oral TRT.

First, the bad. Get that out of the way. Yesterday ended up getting a little pickleball play in as part of a work event. That was fun and made me want to get back into it regularly. But unfortunately we didn't really warm up, so even by the end and the walk back home + this AM my lower back is feeling it. It's sore/tender and and a bit stiff. Did a lot of stretching and all of the McGill work, but I know this type of inflammation will take a few days to heal. As example, on bench today I had absolutely no leg drive as the arch was problematic.

Left forearm still hurts.

Also, was half asleep this AM so filled up my shaker with my blue raspberry electrolytes, didn't screw on the lid, and immediately dropped it all over the floor and myself. Had to spend time cleaning that all up as it made a huge mess. Should've just stayed in bed as I had already slept through the first 3 alarms...

Now for the good. Starting up a TRT experiment. Decided to pull the trigger finally. I'm still a wuss, so no needles. Will be taking oral test undecanoate, 200mg twice daily with high fat meals (400mg daily). This is relatively standard (non-HRT) dose by my own choice initially to try and limit CV sides and potential lipid issues due to my high ApoB marker. Will look to monitor likely at 1 month and 3 months in to see how this impacts overall bloodwork though. I may need to bump up to 400mg twice daily for desired optimal test range, as this was actually the initial recommendation from the doc, but again looking to go with minimum effective dose. Also will need to monitor for any estrogen related sides as I have confirmed gyno presence on both sides apparently (according to my Ca scan). Have tamox, letro, and 6-oxo on hand. Will also continue with pyridoxal in the AM daily and reduced DHEA/pregnenolone to 1 cap daily (12.5mg/25mg).

Also started up a new (repeat) mesocycle today, 4x/wk chest/back emphasis. And opened up CVOL today too.

Always fun to start new cycles!

 

[Segansational]

Mesocycle 5, Week 1, Day 1 - 3 RIR, Chest/Back Dominant

Really had to do a lot of warming up for my back today. Also woke up late as mentioned, so really only got to do chest. But that was the priority anwyays.

Working sets,
Bench Press, 2 sets
Machine Flys, 2 sets
DB laterals, 2 sets

1 hr 1 mins, 149 cals.

Pre: 1 scoop Mr White, 2 pumps L-carnitine gel, 1g Choline Citrate, 3 caps PrimeXT, 2 caps Pepti-Plex.
Intra/post: 1 bottle of Body Armor, 1 scoop of CVOL.

Notes
On both bench and DB laterals I could feel my lower back hurting. I will continue to use CurcuPrime but may also need some additional ice/heat to help muscle recovery.

 

[MrKleen73]

I was under the impression oral testosterone was ineffective. Curious how well this works. Not for me, but perhaps replacing my wife's pellets. The trough she goes through every few months is just a major pain. She won't do needles either so curious on this.

 

[Dustin07]

Found out I didn't get the job I wanted. So back to the drawing board again.

I'm actually sorta surprised, if a bunch of us can see your focus, thoughtfulness, and passion for what you do and they don't, then it sorta seems like maybe they would not be a good fit for you anyways.

This time they were looking with someone from outside, for "different" thinking.

I've seen large companies that ONLY hire from within, and large companies that really focus on outside hires. Since they both have success I can't fault one or the other but I personally don't really understand the outside approach to a lot of positions, especially anything customer facing. Whenever we look to groom someone for a customer facing position we always start them out interior, like in costing, engineering, maybe in quality even production etc to make sure they have a lot of hands on experience with the business before they are set free in the wild. Hiring/promoting from within, for me, has been a much cleaner approach.

Not going to lie, it's been tough. That's 3 in a row for me getting the interview, but not getting the role. It's a bit disheartening and yesterday was just a really tough day overall for me considering the home & work stress on top of it all.

Sorta seems like there is honestly something better in your future. Someone might be testing you/giving you a sign here Remember, the night is always darkest right before dawn.

Also, was half asleep this AM so filled up my shaker with my blue raspberry electrolytes, didn't screw on the lid, and immediately dropped it all over the floor and myself.

dude we've all been there, sometimes you gotta just laugh lol
the worst is when I take the shaker, and start shaking it violently only to find out I didn't close the lid and I basically start throwing prewo all over the room or my car

I was under the impression oral testosterone was ineffective. Curious how well this works. Not for me, but perhaps replacing my wife's pellets. The trough she goes through every few months is just a major pain. She won't do needles either so curious on this.

Don't they have TD for women?

 

[Segansational]

I was under the impression oral testosterone was ineffective. Curious how well this works. Not for me, but perhaps replacing my wife's pellets. The trough she goes through every few months is just a major pain. She won't do needles either so curious on this.

That's basically the point - aside from route of administration - to my understanding. Instead of huge bolus peaks and then a pretty significant potential trough until next injection the daily dosing is meant to provide sustained levels (still two daily peaks, but at less severe highs and lows).

Pellets while I think similarly are supposed to provide some level of sustained hormones, I was reading the ramp UP time is actually fairly slow (~14ish days) and then also a longer taper on the back end.

Obviously the trade offs with oral is that you have to somewhat be strict with your schedule of doses and relative level of fat ingestion with each dose to allow for the chylomicron absorption (the unique MOA carrier) which can impact absorption levels.

 

[Hyde]

I pin my daily test/Trest blend with a true 31g slinpin. It is so short and small of a needle, it can be stuck in any muscle or area of fat all over my body. To do 20mg test cypionate daily (140/wk) is a mere 10iu of oil volume. You could also do eod shots with 20iu instead, or honestly the full 30iu/0.3cc just twice per week for 120mg/wk.

It is the same length of time & effort as brushing my teeth, and it truly does not hurt. It won’t even poke nerves in front delts or anywhere between the needle length is so shallow.

Just saying, if this doesn’t work out, it’s not like you have to stick yourself with anything bigger than the tiniest prick they offer.














That’s what she said.

 

[MrKleen73]

That's basically the point - aside from route of administration - to my understanding. Instead of huge bolus peaks and then a pretty significant potential trough until next injection the daily dosing is meant to provide sustained levels (still two daily peaks, but at less severe highs and lows).

Pellets while I think similarly are supposed to provide some level of sustained hormones, I was reading the ramp UP time is actually fairly slow (~14ish days) and then also a longer taper on the back end.

Obviously the trade offs with oral is that you have to somewhat be strict with your schedule of doses and relative level of fat ingestion with each dose to allow for the chylomicron absorption (the unique MOA carrier) which can impact absorption levels.

Yeah for sure, there is a long trough with the pellets. I was just under the impression testosterone was destroyed in the gut from everything I had ever heard. So I did not even know that was an option.

@Dustin07 - They do make transdermal solutions, but I believe the ones they make for men are too strong for a woman without virilization issues. I could probably get some raw powders and make a TD myself but if there is an oral out there that works, she might want to jump on that option.