Guest viewing is limited

AntM's Lean Bulk and Everything Else This Summer Log

I tried the Pumpkin Spice Cheerios last night.

I have to try them a few more times before I really know how I feel. The flavor was a little subtle. My wife thought they were disgusting lol. So the whole box is mine :D
 
I tried the Pumpkin Spice Cheerios last night.

I have to try them a few more times before I really know how I feel. The flavor was a little subtle. My wife thought they were disgusting lol. So the whole box is mine :D

where'd you buy them at? I haven't seen them jsut yet
 
Target, they had the BOO ter scotch M&Ms too, but I didn't grab those.

They also had S'mores fiber one bars, the soft ones, I can'tremember the product line, for .82 a box after cartwheel.

yessssss. going tonight for the m&m's haha
 
Target, they had the BOO ter scotch M&Ms too, but I didn't grab those.

They also had S'mores fiber one bars, the soft ones, I can'tremember the product line, for .82 a box after cartwheel.

I hate going to Target for groceries, it is not centrally located for me!

I'm hoping my local stores get those soon
 
August 22, 2016
Pull Power


Finally, my school has finished scheduling classes. I went in today to get it. They gave me a new class and school starts in a week. WTF. Now, I need to plan for this all week while getting other stuff together. If I wasnt teaching this new class right off the bat during the first semester, it wouldn't be an issue. I really hate administration!

Today's training was epic. The 6x4 four weeks ago, I hit 360 for my top set. I knew I was going for 365 today and hit it! The bar speed was good and I felt tight the entire time. Pullups today also felt pretty easy. The last time I went with a 5x5, I only hit 3 sets out of the 5 with a five pound weifht attached tp me. I had to take it off for the last 2 sets. Today, I completed all 5 sets with the 5 pound weight and my form was spot on. Weight or reps increased on everything. Additionally, my form was epic. My reps were slow nd controlled. Not that I swing the weights normally, but I usually do not hold my contractions on the heavy pull day. I was able to do that today while going heavier or getting more reps.


Training

Deadlift 6x4 @ 75%-85% of 1RM (319 lbs -361 lbs)

320x4
330x4
340x4
350x4
360x4
365x4

Wide Grip Weighted Pullups

5x5,5,5,5,5

Neutral Grip T Bar Rows

120x7,6,6

Wide Neutral Grip Pulldowns

127.5x8,6,6

Close Grip Neutral Pulldowns

127.5x7,7,7

Used attachment with space in the middle for more ROM

Reverse Pec Deck

145x8,7,6,6

Nutrition

Low Carb

Cals - 2,225
Carbs - 211g
  • Fiber - 49g
Protein - 211g
Fat - 72g
  • Sat. - 16g
  • Poly. - 7g
  • Mono. - 11g
 
August 23, 2016
Legs Hypertrophy


Just a boring hypertrophy day. I wore my squat shoes on leg presses today, I normally do not bring them on hypertrophy days. I read an article showing increase quad activation when using squat shoes on the leg press. I will do this and see how it goes.

Training.

Leg Press

330x12,12,12,12,12

RDL

215x12,12,12

V Squat

220x10,10,10

Seated Hamstring Curl

180x13,11,10

Leg Extensions

125x14,12,12,12,12

Seated Calf Raises

135x12
140x10.10,10,10

Standing Calf Raises

220x12,11,11,11,10

Nutrition

Moderate Carb

Cals - 2,450
Carbs - 280g
  • Fiber - 49g
Protein - 212g
Fat - 63g
  • Sat. - 19g
  • Poly. - 7g
  • Mono. - 14g
 
AntM Reviews Multiple Scivation Xtend Flavors

First, let me say this will just be a taste test and I will rank these in order from my most preferred to least. I would highly suggest Xtend to anyone looking for an amino product. They have pretty much set the bar for amino products in the market nd they are reasonably priced. All reviews were in 12-16 ounces of water.

Green Apple

If you can imagine your perfect Granny Smith Apple, this is exactly how this flavor tastes. It is very natural. It is pretty strong flavor wise, but so far Granny Smith Apples. It has the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness of the real thing.

Mango

Invalid Link Removed

Again, very natural in flavor and the intensity of the flavor is perfect. It is not overly strong, but not too light. A perfect representation of a mango.

Strawberry Kiwi

Invalid Link Removed

Good natural flavor again. The kiwi flavor is more dominant than the strawberry. On a scale of 1-10, I would say it is 7 to 3 in favor of the kiwi. I wish there was more of a sweet strawberry flavor, but it is still a very good flavor overall.

Blue Raspberry

Invalid Link Removed

Surprisingly, this flavor was very light and not intense at all. Usually this flavor is very intense and strong. It could have been a touch sweeter for me. It was not bad, but a little more sweetness would better represent raspberry.

Grape

Invalid Link Removed

Again, very natural and enjoyable. Usually I do not like grape flavored products, but this was pretty much perfect. Think of Welch's grape juice, but not overly sweet.

Watermelon

Invalid Link Removed

Tastes like a Watermelon Jolly Rancher, but has a little odd of an aftertaste. Even if there was no aftertaste, this is nothing special. Watermelon flavors are pretty universal now between different companies and products.

Pineapple

Invalid Link Removed

This was my least favorite. There was only a hint of pineapple and a somewhat heavy artificial taste.

Rankings

Green Apple
Grape
Mango
Strawberry Kiwi
Blue Raspberry
Watermelon
Pineapple
 
August 25, 2016
Push Power


Another solid push session today! Last 6x4 on bench, 185 was my top set. I hit 190 today. Last time I performed a 5x5 on OHP, I used 115 for all five sets. Last time I performed a 3x5, I used 120 for 2 sets and 115 for 1 set. On the 5x5 today, I used 120 for all sets and the bar speed was pretty good.

Training

Paused Flat Bench Press 6x4 @ 75%-85% of 1RM (161 lbs - 183 lbs)

165x4
170x4
175x4
180x4
185x4
190x4

Military Press

120x5,5,5,5,5

Close Grip Bench Press

155x6,6,6

Incline Bench Press

145x6,6,6

Seated Hammerstrength Shoulder Press

180x6,6,6

Weighted Dips

60x7,6,6

Nutrition

Moderate Carb

Cals - 2,450
Carbs - 280g
  • Fiber - 49g
Protein - 211g
Fat - 63g
  • Sat. - 21g
  • Poly. - 8g
  • Mono. - 14g
 
August 26, 2016
Pull Hypertrophy


My hamstrings are so damn sore. I spent some extra time foam rolling them post workout today. I will probably roll a little before bed as well. I hope it doesn't impact tomorrow, but we'll see.

In regards to today's session, it was great. I went back to the regular cable pulldowns, but decreased the weight from what I would normally use for a 5x12. I had a great pump and felt it all in my back. I focused on pulling through my pinky, this helped me keep my elbows in tight to my sides which helped me focus on my lats.


Training

Lat Pulldowns

90x12,12,12,12,13

Seated Cable Rows

105x12,12,12,12

Hammerstrength High Row

130x10,10,10,10

T Bar Row

65x11,11,10,10

Over hand grip

Close Grip Pulldowns

112.5x12,11,10,10

Reverse Pec Deck

125x11,10,10,10

Nutrition

High Carb

Cals - 2,700
Carbs - 348g
  • Fiber - 49g
Protein - 211g
Fat - 63g
  • Sat. - 20g
  • Poly. - 10g
  • Mono. - 16g
 
August 27, 2016
Lower Power


I woke up and my hamstrings didn't feel sore, but they were not fully recovered. For example, they were not sore to the touch, but sore when under stress. That did not affect me at all though! I was beyond happy with the session today. I was able to up the weight by five pounds on squats, compared to my last 6x4. I also was able to go heavier on my 5x5 pause squat, leg press and hip thrusts.

Training

Back Squat 6x4 @ 75%-85% of 1RM (248 - 281 lbs)

250x4
255x4
260x4
265x4
275x4
285x4

Paused Squats

170x5,5,5,5,5

Hip Thrust

210x7,7,6

Pause at the top for extra contraction

Leg Press

370x6,6,6

Lying Leg Curls

125x7,6,6

Seated Calf Machine

160x8,8,8,7,7

Standing Calf Machine

270x8,7,7,7,6

Nutrition

Low Carb

Cals - 2,200
Carbs - 211g
  • Fiber - 50g
Protein - 211g
Fat - 72g
  • Sat. - 18g
  • Poly. - 7g
  • Mono. - 11g
 
August 28, 2016
Push Hypertrophy


Weight - 155.6

Weight is don 1.2 pounds. I am going to increase cals this week, in the form of carbs.

Back to reality tomorrow, school starts. I'm excited, anxious, all of the above would describe how I feel.

Training today was very good, even with the weight loss. I had 6x10 in incline db presses. Last 6x10, I hit 55 pounds for all 6 sets. I was expecting to hit 3 or 4 sets with the 60s. To my surprise, I was able to hit all 6 sets with the 60s. The last set I had to rest a little longer than normal, but I got it. I also used 40s for all sets on my db shoulder press and only used 40s for 2 of the 3 sets my last 3x10. I was able to increase reps or weight on everything this week.

Tomorrow will be my first heavy pull day in a long time with a meal in me. It is a low carb day. Last year, my lunch/pre workout meal was some sweet potatoes and chicken. I am going to go with chicken, a serving of almonds and two servings of broccoli. I'm hoping that works better than my meal last year and I don't have the feeling of vomiting.


Training

Incline DB Press

60x10,10,10,10,10,10

Seated DB Shoulder Press

40x10,10,10

Incline Hammerstrength Chest Press

140x11,11,10 + 2 rest pause reps

Incline Skull Crushers

80x12,11,10

Behind the Back Cable Side Laterals

50x12,12,12

V Cable Pressdown

45.5x12,10,10

Nutrition

High Carb Day

Cals - 2,725
Carbs - 354g
  • Fiber - 50g
Protein - 211g
Fat - 57g
  • Sat. - 19g
  • Poly. - 7g
  • Mono. - 6g
 
Man you're killing it. Weight down while your workouts have been great?! What a deal
 
[size=+3]AntM Reviews FitJoy Protein Bars/[/size]

Invalid Link Removed
Invalid Link Removed

Texture/consistency

The top photo is the chocolate mint crisp. The bar is a little chewier, but not as bad as some of the others. It was a pretty plain bar, there wasn't any crunch/crisp to it. There were some nuts mixed in it, but when I read the word crunch, I was thinking it would be a wafer type crunch. The amount of nuts in it did not justify having crisp in the name.

The second photo is that of the chocolate chip cookie dough. This is your basic cccd type bar in terms of texture/consistency. No texture, very similar to a quest bar, but a little softer. Also, it was a little chewy, but nothing bad.

Taste

Chocolate Mint - this had a very nice blend of mint and chocolate. When opening the wrapper, I was hit with a lot of mint. I thought it would be overpowering. However, that was not the case. The initial bite is mint followed by a chocolate flavor. I would say the combo was about 50/50. I really enjoyed the flavor.

CCCD - This was one of my favorite CCCD bars. It could have been a little sweeter, but overall, I got the impression of eating a less sugary raw cookie dough.

Overall

I liked the chocolate mint the most out of these two flavors. It had a perfect balance of mint and chocolate. It needed more crunch/crisp ,the name implies it will be there, but it is not. The lack of the crisp and the little bit of chewiness makes this an 8.5/10

CCCD was also pretty good, but could have been a little sweeter. A nice cookie type crunch would have been nice. I enjoyed it, but the chewiness brought down the rating a little.8/10
 
August 29, 2016
Pull Power


Killed it. I was able to go five pounds heavier on my last set compared to my last 7x3 four weeks ago. I did this despite the loss in weight. My pre workout meal/lunch experiment worked out pretty well. On the first set, I felt like puking a little. I had my belt on the last notch, which was not hard to get to, but once I created pressure, it was too much I think. When fasted, that last hole is a little lose. The 385 set was not easy, but the bar moved very smoothly. It came off the ground pretty quick.

Training

Deadlift 7x3 @ 80%-90% of 1RM (340 lbs -383 lbs)

340x3
345x3
350x3
355x3
365x3
375x3
385x3

Wide Grip Weighted Pullups

10x5,5,5

Neutral Grip T Bar Rows

120x7,7,7

Wide Neutral Grip Pulldowns

130x8
132.5x6,6

Close Grip Neutral Pulldowns

127.5x6,6,6

Used attachment with space in the middle for more ROM

Reverse Pec Deck

150x7,6,6,6

Nutrition

Low Carb

Cals - 2,225
Carbs - 211g
  • Fiber - 49g
Protein - 210g
Fat - 73g
  • Sat. - 17g
  • Poly. - 7g
  • Mono. - 11g
 
August 30, 2016
Legs Hypertrophy


Training.

Leg Press

360x10,10,10,10,10,11

RDL

220x10,10,10

V Squat

220x11,11,11

Seated Hamstring Curl

180x14,11,10

Leg Extensions

125x15,13,13,12,12

Seated Calf Raises

140x12,12.11,11,10

Standing Calf Raises

220x12,12,11,11,11

Nutrition

Moderate Carb

Cals - 2,475
Carbs - 286g
  • Fiber - 49g
Protein - 211g
Fat - 63g
  • Sat. - 23g
  • Poly. - 7g
  • Mono. - 11g
 
September 1, 2016
Push Power


Another solid push session today! Last 7x3 on bench, the top set was 195 pounds and I needed a little help on the last rep. Today, I hit 200, no help. My spotter gave me some good advice for benching as well that I will incorporate next week. Last 3x5 on military press, I hit 115 for one set and 120 for two sets. Today, I got 125 for all three sets. I increased one rep on dips, cgbp and incline this week too.

I did this all stim free, despite dealing with teenagers all day too!


Training

Paused Flat Bench Press 7x3 @ 80%-90% of 1RM (172 lbs - 194 lbs)

175x3
175x3
180x3
187.5x3 (accidentally had a 2.5 on one side)
190x3
195x3
200x3

Military Press

125x5,5,5

Close Grip Bench Press

155x7,6,6

Incline Bench Press

145x7,6,6

Seated Hammerstrength Shoulder Press

160x6,6,6

Weighted Dips

60x7,7,6

Nutrition

Moderate Carb

Cals - 2,475
Carbs - 286g
  • Fiber - 49g
Protein - 211g
Fat - 62g
  • Sat. - 21g
  • Poly. - 7g
  • Mono. - 11g
 
September 2, 2016
Pull Hypertrophy


I don't want to say today's session wasn't good, but it just didn't feel good.

I made progress weight wise or rep wise from last week, but my pump was not nearly as good. I think a few things caused that. First, I did not use high volume for my pre workout today. Instead, I used NooPump. I ran out of Haleo Mind Set (a nootropic product) which I was stacking with high volume. I used up what was left in the NooPump container, which was only 3 grams, which is half of a serving. I was too lazy to go and grab my other tub to make it a full serving. Even at a full serving, it is not the strongest for increasing a pump.

Second, my bathroom routine has been off this week since starting work again. I usually go once in the morning. I still have, but the amount I have gone this week has been less. I took a stool softener this morning and it hit me abut 15 minutes in. I think going to the bathroom got in the way of keeping my pump. Lastly, it seemed like everyone was working back and using the machines I like to use. I ended up doing some fluff bicep and forearm stuff waiting for equipment, taking the pump away from my back.

I still had a pump, but it was only during the set versus the pump I feel the entire workout with high volume. Because I progressed, it wasn't a bad workout, it just didn't feel as good as it normally would


Training

Lat Pulldowns

92.5x10,10,10,10,10.10

Seated Cable Rows

107.5x10,10,10,10

Hammerstrength High Row

130x11,11,10,10

T Bar Row

65x12,11,11,11

Over hand grip

Close Grip Pulldowns

115x11,10,10,10

Reverse Pec Deck

125x11,11,10,10

Nutrition

High Carb

Cals - 2,725
Carbs - 354g
  • Fiber - 49g
Protein - 210g
Fat - 56g
  • Sat. - 18g
  • Poly. - 6g
  • Mono. - 6g
 
September 3, 2016
Lower Power


Doing my warm up sets for squats, I thought it was going to go very smoothly. Additionally, I only walked to the gym once this week, today, due to being back at work, so I thought that would help as well. Once I got ino my working sets, it was more difficult than I thought it was going to be. I still hit 5 pounds more on this 7x3 compared to 4 weeks ago, but I had to work for it. I was having form issues as well, which I noticed last week, but forgot about it.

What I noticed is that I am not gripping the bar with my hands tight enough and it is almost as though the bar moves which makes me lean forward. I noticed on my pause squats, I grip the bar very tight which keeps my upper back tight. I wrote a note to myself in my notebook. All other lifts progressed from last week.

I'm curious to see where my weight is tomorrow. I only increased cals by 100 this week, but I also only walked to the gym one day. My daily walking is a lot less because of that. Being a teacher, I do not walk a lot, but I rarely sit during the day. I noticed my belt was a little tighter than normal. I am still on the last hole. That could also be because I backload my calories during the work. I follow IF and my only meal at work is lunch, which is 500-600 cals which leaves 1600-2300 to eat during the evening, depending on the day.


Training

Back Squat 7x3 @ 80%-90% of 1RM (264 - 297 lbs)

265x3
270x3
275x3
280x3
285x3
290x3
295x3

Paused Squats

180x5,5
185x5

Hip Thrust

210x8,7,7

Pause at the top for extra contraction

Leg Press

370x7,6,6

Lying Leg Curls

125x8,6,6

Seated Calf Machine

165x8,8,8
170x6,6

Standing Calf Machine

270x8,8,8,7,7

Nutrition

Low Carb

Cals - 2,225
Carbs - 213g
  • Fiber - 50g
Protein - 219g
Fat - 73g
  • Sat. - 19g
  • Poly. - 7g
  • Mono. - 11g
 
September 4, 2016
Push Hypertrophy


Weight - 156.6

Weight is up 1 pound. It is still .2 pounds under the 156.8 I was weighing in for a subtantial amount of time. I'm not surprised with the 1 pound gain. Less walking and a little increase in cals will do that.

I progressed in everything from last week, this week. The only thing that had a drop off was incline hammerstrength chest press, but it was only 1 rep. I was able to hit 65 pounds on my 7x8 incline dumbbell press. Last 7x8, 4 weeks ago, I was able to use 60 pounds for all sets. I had to rest a little longer than normal on the last set, but I was still impressed. Also, I hit 45 pounds on seated shoulder press. 4 weeks ago, it was 45 for one set and 40 for the last 2.


Training

Incline DB Press

65,8,8,8,8,8,8,8

Seated DB Shoulder Press

45,8,8,8

Incline Hammerstrength Chest Press

140x11,10,10

Incline Skull Crushers

80x12,11,10

Behind the Back Cable Side Laterals

50x13,12,12

V Cable Pressdown

45.5x12,11,10

Nutrition

High Carb Day

Cals - 2,725
Carbs - 354g
  • Fiber - 49g
Protein - 211g
Fat - 56g
  • Sat. - 15g
  • Poly. - 6g
  • Mono. - 6g
 
September 5, 2016
Pull Power


Killed it. Four weeks ago on my 8x2, 390 was my top set. I was aiming for 395 today, but was able to get to 400. It was tough as heck, but I got it. On my max out week, I am going to incorporate rack pulls as my second movement on my heavy days. I am good off the ground, but once I got below the knee, it is a little slow. I used to have rack pulls, but removed them for more "bodybuilding" movements. I figured that since I hit back twice per week, my back gets enough bodybuilding type movements. All other lifts progressed as well.

Training

Deadlift 8x2 @ 85%-95% of 1RM (361 lbs -404 lbs)

365x2
370x2
375x2
380x2
385x2
390x2
395x2
400x2

Wide Grip Weighted Pullups

12.5x3,3,3,3,4

Neutral Grip T Bar Rows

120x8,7
125x6

Close Grip Neutral Grip Pulldowns

132.5x8,6,6

Wide Grip Neutral Pulldowns

122.5x6,6,6

Reverse Pec Deck

150x7,7,6,6

Nutrition

Low Carb

Cals - 2,225
Carbs - 211g
  • Fiber - 49g
Protein - 211g
Fat - 72g
  • Sat. - 18g
  • Poly. - 7g
  • Mono. - 11g
 
[size=+3]AntM Reviews FitJoy Protein Bars/[/size]

Invalid Link Removed

Profile

This particular flavor is 62 grams for a serving and provides 230 cals, 8 grams of fat, 25 grams of carbs and 20 grams of protein. Pretty standard.

The main protein source is also top notch, being whey protein isolate. It does not use inferior protein sources for the protein content.

Price

From FitJoy directly, you are looking at a little over $2 a bar which is a tad higher than some other similar protein bars.

Texture/consistency

This particular flavor/bar was not as soft as the cinnamon roll or chocolate peanut butter. Additionally, it was a lot more chewy than those two flavors. It did have some nuts on top, as you can see, which added a little texture. But overall, it was pretty much a single note in terms of texture. The bar has an icing swirl on top, which adds a nice look, but does nothing for the texture.

Taste

The flavor was Chocolate Iced Brownie. It definitely has that brownie flavor. I would say it is similar to a double chocolate brownie. The icing adds a little sweetness which is nice. It is not overly sweet, but just sweet enough. The nuts are a nice addition since I prefer nuts in my brownies.

Overall

I am not the biggest fan of chocolate. The bars for me, taste and macro wise are slightly above average, but the chewiness brought my overall rating down. They are not excessively chewy, but chewy enough to turn me away from this flavor. If you enjoy heavy milk chocolate flavors, you will enjoy this bar. 7/10
 
September 6, 2016
Legs Hypertrophy


In non-lifting news, I gained a new student in one of my classes. His name is Muhammad Ali. It's awesome, that's all.

Training.

Leg Press

380x8,8,8,8,8
390x8,8

RDL

225x8,8
230x8

V Squat

230x10,10,10

Seated Hamstring Curl

180x15,11,11

Leg Extensions

125x15,14,13,13,13

Seated Calf Raises

145x12,11.10,10,10

Standing Calf Raises

230x12,11,10,10,10

Nutrition

Moderate Carb

Cals - 2,475
Carbs - 286g
  • Fiber - 49g
Protein - 210g
Fat - 61g
  • Sat. - 20g
  • Poly. - 7g
  • Mono. - 11g
 
September 8, 2016
Push Power


I was shot after work yesterday. My last class takes a lot out of me. Because of that, I brought a packet of Jack3d with me along with my non stim pre workout. I was feeling good so I went stim free and was fine. After my upcoming deload, I am going back to stims for most days.

I almost killed myself too on incline bench, I re-racked the weight after my second set, but I missed the pin on the right side. The weight fell, I kinda caught it, but it hit my head. I got incredibly lucky that it scrapped my forehead, otherwise, I probably would have been looking at some stitches or staples.

I hit 210 on paused bench and 4 weeks ago, 205 was my top set. It was a grinder, but I got it. Also, I hit 130 for all 5 sets of 3 reps of military pres, last 5x3, I hit 125 for all sets. Everything else progressed from last week but I did lose 1 rep on dips.


Training

Paused Flat Bench Press 8x2 @ 85%-95% of 1RM (183 lbs - 204 lbs)

185x2
185x2
190x2
190x2
195x2
200x2
205x2
210x2

Military Press

130x3,3,3,3,3

Close Grip Bench Press

155x7,7,6

Incline Bench Press

145x7,6,6

Seated Hammerstrength Shoulder Press

160x8,7,7

Weighted Dips

60x7,6,6

Nutrition

Moderate Carb

Cals - 2,475
Carbs - 286g
  • Fiber - 48g
Protein - 211g
Fat - 61g
  • Sat. - 19g
  • Poly. - 7g
  • Mono. - 11g
 
September 9, 2016
Pull Hypertrophy


Turns out the barbell incident from yesterday left a mark on my forehead. Today, my students were calling me Mr. Harry Potter. I told the kid that started that he is failing for the quarter! Gotta love kids, sometimes.

Today's session was a lot better than last week's pull. I felt a better pump. My strength was also way higher on pulldowns and cable rows as well.

I am excited for tomorrow's squatting. My legs feel good, even after doing a HITT cardio session on Wednesday morning.


Training

Lat Pulldowns

95x8,8
07.5x8,8
100x8,8
102.5x8

Seated Cable Rows

110x8
115,8,9

Hammerstrength High Row

130x11,10,10

T Bar Row

70x11,10,10

Over hand grip

Close Grip Pulldowns

115x12,11,10

Underhand Grip Machine Row

115x11,11,11

Reverse Pec Deck

125x12,12,10,10

Nutrition

High Carb

Cals - 2,725
Carbs - 354g
  • Fiber - 49g
Protein - 212g
Fat - 55g
  • Sat. - 17g
  • Poly. - 12g
  • Mono. - 5g
 
September 10, 2016
Lower Power


Goodish session today. I only hit 305 for my top two sets. The same as 4 weeks ago. My 7th set, form was a little sloppy so I didn't want to go up in weight. The 8th set was better, form was. After the 8th set, I rested for 2 minutes and then hit 305 again for 1 rep. This was to make up for the poor second rep on the 7th set. I then put 355 on the bar and just unracked it and held it for 30 seconds to get a sense of what it feels like on my back. When I max in 2 weeks, I won't go that heavy, but wanted to really overload.

Pause squats went well, hip thrusts went up by 15 pounds. Reps and/or weight went up on everything else.

I am entering my deload week tomorrow, I am going to outline what I am planning on doing, but I would like some input please.


Training

Back Squat 8x2 @ 85%-95% of 1RM (281 - 314 lbs)

285x2
285x2
290x2
290x2
295x2
300x2
305x2
305x2 + 1

Paused Squats

195x3,3,3,3,3

Hip Thrust

225x7,6,6

Pause at the top for extra contraction

Leg Press

370x8,7,7

Lying Leg Curls

125x8
130x6,6

Seated Calf Machine

170x8,8,8,8,7

Standing Calf Machine

275x8,7,6,6,6

Nutrition

Low Carb

Cals - 2,225
Carbs - 211g
  • Fiber - 49g
Protein - 210g
Fat - 72g
  • Sat. - 18g
  • Poly. - 7g
  • Mono. - 11g
 
Here is what I am going to do for the deload. On heavy days, instead of the first lift being a 5x5 at 60-70%, I am going with a 3x5 at 60-65%. I figured less volume there would be good.

I will not do any drop sets/rest pause sets. I have gotten into a bad habit. During the summer and even up to today, I have been doing at least one drop set or rest pause set after EVERY lift. I think I was doing it because I had more free time in the summer and because I am reverting back to my old habits of more volume = more gains. If I didn't hit everything twice a week, I would do that, but I need to stop it. It also adds a decent amount of time onto training as well. Volume will be decreased a lot by getting rid of all of that nonsense.

Here are the two "dilemmas" I have. One, the second exercise this week on my heavy days calls for a 6x2. This exercise, the rep range is usually 15 or 25, depending on the week. This week is only 12 reps, but with slighter heavier weight. Doing 6x2 on pullups isn't taxing, so I am going to keep that. Military press, I don't know if I should decrease the weight a little or perhaps go with a 3x2 with the heavier weight or 6x2 with lighter weight. Same thing for pause squats. I think I will go lighter on pause squats, because my max deadlift is just 2 days later. The military press won't affect anything in the coming days.

Second thing. I do one "burnout" set at the end of my workouts. I will choose an exercises, lets say cable pressdowns for triceps, and I will go for 50 reps in 4-5 sets with minimum rest. Thoughts on leaving this or removing it?
 
Here is what I am going to do for the deload. On heavy days, instead of the first lift being a 5x5 at 60-70%, I am going with a 3x5 at 60-65%. I figured less volume there would be good.

I will not do any drop sets/rest pause sets. I have gotten into a bad habit. During the summer and even up to today, I have been doing at least one drop set or rest pause set after EVERY lift. I think I was doing it because I had more free time in the summer and because I am reverting back to my old habits of more volume = more gains. If I didn't hit everything twice a week, I would do that, but I need to stop it. It also adds a decent amount of time onto training as well. Volume will be decreased a lot by getting rid of all of that nonsense.

Here are the two "dilemmas" I have. One, the second exercise this week on my heavy days calls for a 6x2. This exercise, the rep range is usually 15 or 25, depending on the week. This week is only 12 reps, but with slighter heavier weight. Doing 6x2 on pullups isn't taxing, so I am going to keep that. Military press, I don't know if I should decrease the weight a little or perhaps go with a 3x2 with the heavier weight or 6x2 with lighter weight. Same thing for pause squats. I think I will go lighter on pause squats, because my max deadlift is just 2 days later. The military press won't affect anything in the coming days.

Second thing. I do one "burnout" set at the end of my workouts. I will choose an exercises, lets say cable pressdowns for triceps, and I will go for 50 reps in 4-5 sets with minimum rest. Thoughts on leaving this or removing it?

I do those "burnout" type sets at the end of my workouts as well. Good pump, and a nice after burn from the hiit style. I've enjoyed it and would vote you keep it
 
I do those "burnout" type sets at the end of my workouts as well. Good pump, and a nice after burn from the hiit style. I've enjoyed it and would vote you keep it

Even for the deload? I opted out and did not do it. I figured if I am going to keep the weights the same, except for the big three lifts, it would be a good thing to cut out to give the CNS a rest.
 
September 11, 2016
Push Hypertrophy


Weight - 155.6

Weight is down one pound this week. I am not going to increase cals since activity will be down a little due to the deload.

Before I get into today's session, please take a moment of silence for those that lost their lives 15 years ago today. Additionally, have fun with the first Sunday of football.

With the deload, I decided against doing those burnout sets at the end. I also will not do any type of drop sets or rest pause sets. I got rid of the 50 set exercise at the end because I am going to keep all weights, minus those of the big three lifts, the same. I figured if weight is the same, I need a cut in volume to rest my CNS. Without doing drop srts after every last set of each exercise, I could not believe how much quicker the session goes. I had a good pump and my muscle felt worked, but I did not feel pushed to the max like I normally do. This is what I need to do for an effective deload.

On incline DB press, I hit 70 pounds for all eight sets of six reps. Four weeks ago, I only hit 70 pounds for two of the eight sets and used 65 for the other six. Good progression. I also used 50 pound DB as opposed to 45 for seated DB shoulder press. These felt pretty easy. I also improved everywhere else as well.

Last thing is a change for Sunday training sessions. Due to football being here I will train fasted Sunday which is new for me. Yes, I train fasted Saturday's but this fasted training is different. I work a part time job on Sunday mornings. I work from 7-11, then I walk over to my gym since it is in the same plaza. I follow IF and like to keep my eating window later which is why I am going to fasted training. I bring this up because I am not just waking up and going to the gym, I am working before hand.


Training

Incline DB Press

70x6,6,6,6,6,6,6,6

Seated DB Shoulder Press

50x6,6,6

Incline Hammerstrength Chest Press

140x12,11,10

Incline Skull Crushers

80x13,11,11

Behind the Back Cable Side Laterals

50x15,13,13

V Cable Pressdown

45x10,10,10

Nutrition

High Carb Day

Cals - 2,725
Carbs - 354g
  • Fiber - 50g
Protein - 211g
Fat - 59g
  • Sat. - 12g
  • Poly. - 10g
  • Mono. - 11g
 
Even for the deload? I opted out and did not do it. I figured if I am going to keep the weights the same, except for the big three lifts, it would be a good thing to cut out to give the CNS a rest.

Ah, didn't realize you were still talking Deload. No, I cut any intensity techniques or but outs on deloads.
 
Ah, didn't realize you were still talking Deload. No, I cut any intensity techniques or but outs on deloads.

Yes. Although I did cut out intensity techniques for the week. I hate it. I "feel" fine. But deloading is one of those things you want to take care of before you break down. Bad analogy here, but if you hear your car bakes squealing, you want to change them before they get so bad you lose your brakes.
 
September 12, 2016
Pull Power


Surprised I have a little bit of DOMS in my triceps, especially since I cut all drop sets.

I added rack pulls today for my second movement. I was going to wait until my max week, but went with it this week. I didn't use my belt, which I normally would. I don't want to touch my belt on rack pulls. Simple deload workout, nothing exciting.


Training

Deadlift 8x2 @ 60%-65% of 1RM (255 lbs - 276 lbs)

255x5
265x5
275x5

Rack Pulls

345x2,2,2,2,2,2

Right below knee level

Wide Grip Weighted Pullups

BW x 7,6,6

BW = body weight

Neutral Grip T Bar Rows

125x8,7,6

Wide Grip Neutral Pulldowns

122.5x8
125x6,6

Close Grip Neutral Grip Pulldowns

135x6,6,6

Reverse Pec Deck

150x8,7,8,6

Nutrition

Low Carb

Cals - 2,225
Carbs - 211g
  • Fiber - 49g
Protein - 211g
Fat - 71g
  • Sat. - 15g
  • Poly. - 7g
  • Mono. - 11g
 
Great pull workout AntM!

Deloads may seem like "blowoff" weeks, but they're all-too-important in the long term. I struggle myself with deload/recovery weeks and off days. Always feel like I need to be doing something.
 
Great pull workout AntM!

Deloads may seem like "blowoff" weeks, but they're all-too-important in the long term. I struggle myself with deload/recovery weeks and off days. Always feel like I need to be doing something.

Same here, but like you said, they are important in the long term. I felt like my deadlift positioning was better too. Form and positioning is something I like to work on while deloading.
 
September 13, 2016
Legs Hypertrophy


I was surprised how light the weights felt today. My RDL felt way too easy. The leg press felt pretty easy too. I did not go more than 70 seconds of rest per set for leg press, where I would go upwards of 90 seconds usually.

This could be for a few reasons and maybe a mixture of them. One, my legs were not taxed from yesterday. Two, no drop sets. For my leg press, I would normally drop one plate and go AMRAP for each drop.


Training.

Leg Press

410x6,6,6,6,6,6,6,6

RDL

235x6,6
245x6

V Squat

230x11,10,10

Seated Hamstring Curl

200x11,10,10

Leg Extensions

125x15,15,14,14,13

Seated Calf Raises

145x12,11.11,10,10

Standing Calf Raises

230x12,12,11,10,10

Nutrition

Moderate Carb

Cals - 2,475
Carbs - 286g
  • Fiber - 49g
Protein - 210g
Fat - 63g
  • Sat. - 19g
  • Poly. - 7g
  • Mono. - 11g
 
I utilize rest pause sets,m on every lift, IMO they aren't for high volume and can be dangerous especially on the big three lifts especially since you lift big numbers. My form breaks down during them but not enough that I can hurt myself. Glad your lifting are doing good, I haven't really been keeping up too much but what's your main goal now?
 
I utilize rest pause sets,m on every lift, IMO they aren't for high volume and can be dangerous especially on the big three lifts especially since you lift big numbers. My form breaks down during them but not enough that I can hurt myself. Glad your lifting are doing good, I haven't really been keeping up too much but what's your main goal now?

Goal is still lean bulking. I am getting ready to start a cycle on Sunday, I will post what I'm running in here then.

I like rest pause sets as well, but I would argue that despite them not being high in volume, they are still very taxing on the CNS. One is going to rest once getting to failure and the rest is very short. It is essentially a safer way to overload. It may not feel taxing, but it can stress the body still.
 
September 15, 2016
Push Power


Good deload session. I didn't go up to 65% on flat bench. I just stuck with 135 which is about 62% or so. I wasn't going to drop weight anywhere else, so opted for the lighter weight and only three sets.

Everything went up from last week. I was controlled though. Normally where I would strain and go for another rep, I stopped myself short of that today. Also, military press was up from 135 to 140 from my last 6x2.


Training

Paused Flat Bench Press 3x5 @ 60%-65% of 1RM (129 lbs - 140 lbs)

135x5,5,5

Military Press

140x2,2,2,2,2,2

Close Grip Bench Press

155x7,7,7

Incline Bench Press

145x8,7,6

Seated Hammerstrength Shoulder Press

170x8,7,7

Weighted Dips

60x7,6,6

Nutrition

Moderate Carb

Cals - 2,475
Carbs - 286g
  • Fiber - 50g
Protein - 212g
Fat - 63g
  • Sat. - 18g
  • Poly. - 7g
  • Mono. - 11g
 
I utilize rest pause sets,m on every lift, IMO they aren't for high volume and can be dangerous especially on the big three lifts especially since you lift big numbers. My form breaks down during them but not enough that I can hurt myself. Glad your lifting are doing good, I haven't really been keeping up too much but what's your main goal now?
CJNator

Good read here about rest pauses. It gives a quick take on CNS

Invalid Link Removed
 
September 16, 2016
Pull Hypertrophy


So glad tomorrow is the last deload day, I hate these weeks so much!

Today was great. The weights felt very light, even with me going heavier. I really think not doing an all out failure dropset makes on all exercises preserves me to lift well later in the session.

I have a trigger point massage lined up for tomorrow. This will be my first time getting that type.


Training

Lat Pulldowns

105x6,6,6,6
107.5x6,6,6,8

Seated Cable Rows

122.5x6
127.5x6,7

Hammerstrength High Row

130x12,11,10

T Bar Row

70x12
75x10,10

Over hand grip

Close Grip Pulldowns

120x10,10,10

Underhand Grip Machine Row

120x11,10,10

Reverse Pec Deck

130x12,11,10,10

Nutrition

High Carb

Cals - 2,725
Carbs - 354g
  • Fiber - 48g
Protein - 211g
Fat - 51g
  • Sat. - 14g
  • Poly. - 8g
  • Mono. - 5g
 
September 17, 2016
Lower Power


I am going to add some notes about the upcoming week in the next post.

Currently getting ready to head out for this trigger point therapy session. I hope it doesn't affect my lifting tomorrow. I'm pretty excited about coming off this deload. My legs felt worked today, but not over taxed.


Training

Back Squat 3x5 @ 60%-65% of 1RM (195 - 211 lbs)

195x5
200x5
205x5

Paused Squats

205x2,2,2,2,2,2

Hip Thrust

225x8,7,7

Pause at the top for extra contraction

Leg Press

380x7,6,6

Lying Leg Curls

130x8,7,6

Seated Calf Machine

180x7,7,6,6,6

Standing Calf Machine

275x8,8,7,7,7

Nutrition

Low Carb

Cals - 2,225
Carbs - 211g
  • Fiber - 50g
Protein - 211g
Fat - 72g
  • Sat. - 16g
  • Poly. - 7g
  • Mono. - 11g
 
I was happy with the deload week. I pushed myself, but I never over did it. I felt fine after my workouts versus feeling ran down. I was proud of myself for not going for that extra rep when I normally would.

This week, I am going to re-introduce a stim pre workout, but only on my heavy training days. The three hypertrophy days, I will only be using a non stim pre workout, like I have been doing. I am going to use OL Conquer with DMBA (AMP) because I have it on hand and the best by date is this month. Plus, it is starting to stick together and slightly clump.

I am also going to start a cycle this week and BPS Androcrine with a PMag product. I was going to wait until the week after testing my one rep maxes, but the timing of my last PCT week would be on a deload week. I'd rather not lift lighter during cycle or during PCT.

Here is what I'm aiming for this week.

Pause Bench - 220
Deadlift - 430
Squat - 335
 
September 18, 2016
Push Hypertrophy


Weight - 155.6

Weight is unchanged from last week. Since I am starting a cycle today, I am going to increase cals by 25 each day, in the form of carbs.

My massage yesterday was intense. I thought I would be sore today, but not really. The guy found a lot of tightness in my rear delts and upper back, he was working on that a lot. I will be going for another trigger point session.

Lifting today was very good. Last 5x12 on incline DB, I hit 55 lbs for all sets. I hit 60 for the first four, but had to go down to 55 for the last set. I probably should have went down for the fourth set as well. Last 3x12 on seated DB shoulder press, I hit 35 for all three sets, but only got 10 on the last set and had to do a rest pause to hit 12. Today I was able to hit 40 lbs for the first two sets, but went down to 35 for the last set.


Training

Incline DB Press

60x12,12,12,12
55x11 (+3 rest pause reps)

Seated DB Shoulder Press

40x12,12,
35x12

Incline Hammerstrength Chest Press

145x10,10,10

Incline Skull Crushers

80x13,12,10

Behind the Back Cable Side Laterals

50x14,12,12

V Cable Pressdown

45.5x10,10,10

Nutrition

High Carb Day

Cals - 2,750
Carbs - 360g
  • Fiber - 50g
Protein - 211g
Fat - 58g
  • Sat. - 15g
  • Poly. - 11g
  • Mono. - 11g
 
September 19, 2016
Pull Power


For some reason, my lower lats are really sore already. My hamstrings feel a little taxed after my max out attempt as well. So the big question, did I hit the 430...yes I did. It was a grinder and it made the rack pulls very hard. It got off the floor quickly. Right at knee level is when it started slowing down. I will take 430 at 155-157 pounds. Also, I was able to use the tightest setting on my belt. This was surprising to me because usually with a meal in me, this hole makes me feel like I am going to puke, but I had a little extra wiggle room. This is good since weight is practically the same. Makes me think body comp is better!

Training

Deadlift Max Attempt

135x8
225x5
315x3
365x1
395x1
430x1
385x1
345x3
315x6
275x8

Rack Pulls

315x5,5,5,5,5

Knee level

Wide Grip Weighted Pullups

BW x 8,7,6

BW = body weight

Neutral Grip T Bar Rows

125x8,7,7

Wide Grip Neutral Pulldowns

125x7,6,6

Close Grip Neutral Grip Pulldowns

135x7,6,6

Reverse Pec Deck

140x8,7,6,6

Nutrition

Low Carb

Cals - 2,250
Carbs - 217g
  • Fiber - 50g
Protein - 211g
Fat - 72g
  • Sat. - 15g
  • Poly. - 7g
  • Mono. - 11g
 
September 20, 2016
Legs Hypertrophy


Holy crap. I could not believe how sore my erectors are today. I went to foam roll my back and thought I was going to cry. I think it was the combo of the heavy deadlifting and rack pulls. Yes, I performed rack pulls last week, but with deload weight deadlifts.

Training today was good. You'll notice I did 6 sets on seated leg curl. I did my normal weight for 3 sets then went back later and did 3 sets with lighter weight. With the heavier weight, I feel like I grip the handles too tight and use my body in addition to my hamstrings. On the second 3 sets, I went lighter and kept my hands on my lap. I felt it more in my hamstrings this way. I will continue with the lighter weight.


Training.

Leg Press

360x12,12,12,12,12

RDL

220x12,12,12

V Squat

230x11,11,10

Seated Hamstring Curl

200x12,10,10
120x15
140x10,10

Leg Extensions

130x15,13,12,12,12

Seated Calf Raises

145x12,11.10,10,10

Standing Calf Raises

230x12,12,12,11,10

Nutrition

Moderate Carb

Cals - 2,500
Carbs - 292g
  • Fiber - 48g
Protein - 212g
Fat - 62g
  • Sat. - 16g
  • Poly. - 8g
  • Mono. - 14g
 
September 22, 2016
Push Power


My ramp up sets were feeling very good. I had 220 on my mind initially, which would have been 5 pounds heavier than my last pause bench max attempt. After the 200 pound set, I knew I could go for 220 and second guess if I could have gotten 225 or I could go for 225, fail and be happy with that fail. I opted for 225. I got it, it was a grinder, but the bar never stopped moving. I was very excited.

Last 5x5 on military press, I used 120 for all sets, I was able to use 125 for all sets today. Everything else went well also.


Training

Paused Flat Bench Press Max Attempt

45x8
95x5
135x3
170x1
200x1
225x1
200x1
185x3
160x6
140x10

Military Press

125x5,5,5,5,5

Close Grip Bench Press

155x8,7,7

Incline Bench Press

145x7
150x6,5 + 1 rest pause rep

Seated Hammerstrength Shoulder Press

180x6,6,6

Weighted Dips

60x7,6,6 + 1 rest pause rep

Nutrition

Moderate Carb

Cals - 2,500
Carbs - 292g
  • Fiber - 49g
Protein - 211g
Fat - 63g
  • Sat. - 17g
  • Poly. - 8g
  • Mono. - 14g
 
Back
Top