SkRaw85
Legend
I see you using these sweet looking arsenal machines. Another gym I’m eyeing up uses those exclusively. Any negative feedback with your experiences to date?
Classic Kleen - The Road To Competition Fall 2024
- Thread starter MrKleen73
- Start date
I see you using these sweet looking arsenal machines. Another gym I’m eyeing up uses those exclusively. Any negative feedback with your experiences to date?
MrKleen73
Legend
Honestly I really enjoy them, they work on some good angles for my body for the most part. This standing Lateral raise machine is fire for sure, I like the incline and flat chest press, the shoulder press is legit too, you jst have to figure out what set up is best for you. They are adjustable from multiple points so you have to find your best combination but once you do they are fire. I am not a fan of their seated low row, but this one is the older models so it may be improved I just don't like it that much. Not a fan of the leg extension because there is no stretch and the weight is biased to be the heaviest near lockout but easiest during the stretch so basically the exact opposite set up you want for hypertrophy. The horizontal row bench is fire, puts you in the position for supported pendlay rows. I like the movement on the Pec Fly / Reverse Fly machine a lot. So I would say they are super high quality, but as with everything, some of the machines may not fit well to your movement patterns. Like the low row for me is just not a good position and I couldn't find a way to make it work well for me as a row. I imaging you might think some are the bees knees and others just don't seem to line up with you you want to move.
PolishHamm3r77
Well-known member
No doubt.
MrKleen73
Legend
7-6-24 - 5 weeks out from Texas Classic Super Show and 7 weeks 5 days from Nationals.
Today's check in changes.
Meal Plan
1698 (from 1925 Calories)
92g Carb, 248g Protein, 37.5g Fat
I finish today out on the regular diet, and have a refeed meal for my 5th meal. So it is a 5 Guys kind of night. I will time my training to be able to get there by 8:30.
Send Fasted Pics and weight to coach tomorrow morning then do a full check in Monday. So, we may be going to 3 check ins a week from here on out. I was thinking of waiting to post pics until I hit 194.5 but I want to show some of the improvements in my poses. I am getting better at getting into position without having to check a mirror which is awesome.
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I will post up some comparison shots tomorrow after the refeed. I bet I am gonna fill up a lot after 100g of carbs all week.
Also I imagine my estrogen is pretty low or the tamoxifen doing its thing alongside it my libido is definitely waning a bit. Unfortunately I think that is probably par for the course since I need estrogenic action lower to reduce gyno mass. I am thinking somewhere around this bodyfat is where I would like to maintain once done competing.
Back & Hamstrings (Friday)
Friday, Jul 05, 2024 at 7:58pm
Seated Leg Curl (Machine) Nice and slow, full stretch slight pause, full retraction with no pause
Set 1: 70 lbs x 15 @ 8 rpe
Set 2: 70 lbs x 15 @ 8 rpe
Set 3: 85 lbs x 10 @ 9 rpe
Set 4: 50 lbs x 16 @ 8.5 rpe
Arsenal Power Squat Good Mornings
"Done with feet in rear relaxed position and flexing hard at top of every rep to get better mind muscle connection in glutes."
Set 1: 280 lbs x 15 @ 7.5 rpe
Set 2: 280 lbs x 15 @ 9 rpe
1 Arm Supinated Grip Cable Row - Nice and slow, full stretch slight pause, full retraction with slight pause
Set 1: 50 lbs x 12 @ 8 rpe
Set 2: 50 lbs x 12 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 3: 50 lbs x 12 @ 9 rpe
Cable Flexion Rows - Nice and slow, full stretch slight pause, full retraction with slight pause
Set 1: 70 lbs x 20 @ 7 rpe
Set 2: 80 lbs x 20 @ 8.5 rpe
Pullover (Machine) Rest Pause sets - Nice and slow, full stretch slight pause, full retraction with slight pause
Set 1: 125 lbs x 10 @ 8 rpe
Set 2: 125 lbs x 5 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 3: 125 lbs x 3 @ 10 rpe
Today's check in changes.
Meal Plan
1698 (from 1925 Calories)
92g Carb, 248g Protein, 37.5g Fat
I finish today out on the regular diet, and have a refeed meal for my 5th meal. So it is a 5 Guys kind of night. I will time my training to be able to get there by 8:30.
Send Fasted Pics and weight to coach tomorrow morning then do a full check in Monday. So, we may be going to 3 check ins a week from here on out. I was thinking of waiting to post pics until I hit 194.5 but I want to show some of the improvements in my poses. I am getting better at getting into position without having to check a mirror which is awesome.
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I will post up some comparison shots tomorrow after the refeed. I bet I am gonna fill up a lot after 100g of carbs all week.
Also I imagine my estrogen is pretty low or the tamoxifen doing its thing alongside it my libido is definitely waning a bit. Unfortunately I think that is probably par for the course since I need estrogenic action lower to reduce gyno mass. I am thinking somewhere around this bodyfat is where I would like to maintain once done competing.
Back & Hamstrings (Friday)
Friday, Jul 05, 2024 at 7:58pm
Seated Leg Curl (Machine) Nice and slow, full stretch slight pause, full retraction with no pause
Set 1: 70 lbs x 15 @ 8 rpe
Set 2: 70 lbs x 15 @ 8 rpe
Set 3: 85 lbs x 10 @ 9 rpe
Set 4: 50 lbs x 16 @ 8.5 rpe
Arsenal Power Squat Good Mornings
"Done with feet in rear relaxed position and flexing hard at top of every rep to get better mind muscle connection in glutes."
Set 1: 280 lbs x 15 @ 7.5 rpe
Set 2: 280 lbs x 15 @ 9 rpe
1 Arm Supinated Grip Cable Row - Nice and slow, full stretch slight pause, full retraction with slight pause
Set 1: 50 lbs x 12 @ 8 rpe
Set 2: 50 lbs x 12 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 3: 50 lbs x 12 @ 9 rpe
Cable Flexion Rows - Nice and slow, full stretch slight pause, full retraction with slight pause
Set 1: 70 lbs x 20 @ 7 rpe
Set 2: 80 lbs x 20 @ 8.5 rpe
Pullover (Machine) Rest Pause sets - Nice and slow, full stretch slight pause, full retraction with slight pause
Set 1: 125 lbs x 10 @ 8 rpe
Set 2: 125 lbs x 5 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 3: 125 lbs x 3 @ 10 rpe
PolishHamm3r77
Well-known member
Posing is already more on point! Coaches r worth the money!!!
Making stellar progress. Way to work!!!
PolishHamm3r77
Well-known member
And seeing your low cals just made me HUNGRY for you
MrKleen73
Legend
Thank you Sir!
Yeah no doubt, it is gonna be rough on 1700 cals but the fat should really start coming off with this drop.
PolishHamm3r77
Well-known member
Melting off you!!!
gphagan1
Legend
Man you nailed your poses in those shots, and now I want a burger and fries.
MrKleen73
Legend
That's the plan!
Thanks, I have been putting in some work to get the muscle memory for the poses down.Man you nailed your poses in those shots, and now I want a burger and fries.
Thank you Sir, it is an honor to have you all following it and supporting me!
About to head to the gym for arms then come home meet my son here and head to 5 Guys, going to eat it there this time to see if I like it better. It was already cold when I got to it last time.
gphagan1
Legend
Don’t know if you have a Whataburger or Fuddruckers, but both have great burgers, especially Fuddruckers. At Fuddruckers they cook your burger as big and seasoned the way you like, but they have a toppings bar that you can load up on every topping you can imagine, really good place. But both do a good job of cooking burgers the right way and seasoned, not just bland, as a lot of the burger joints do. The Whataburger here, on weekends, has a line of cars going into the street, because of all the college kids here, but the parking lot is like a car show on Saturdays, and the young ladies around here are quite a show in the summer themselves.
MrKleen73
Legend
Yeah we have both here in Houston, we have tons of Whataburgers it started and got big here in Texas before spreading out. So kind of a staple spot here. They do make some great burgers.
I have to stick with five guys, my coach said it is the standard and can be found almost anywhere, and we know if it's the same each time. He does daily check ins for a few days after refeed now to see how my body responds and wants that consistency. Five guys redeemed itself today. A very solid burger and the fries were awesome extra crispy and eaten fresh while there. Not quite a hippo burger but still better than most fast food joints. Plus the fries being cooked in peanut oil makes them a little healthier fat profile. So that is nice. I got a lot less fries this time. I think they used the small cup it was not as big as last time.
I have to stick with five guys, my coach said it is the standard and can be found almost anywhere, and we know if it's the same each time. He does daily check ins for a few days after refeed now to see how my body responds and wants that consistency. Five guys redeemed itself today. A very solid burger and the fries were awesome extra crispy and eaten fresh while there. Not quite a hippo burger but still better than most fast food joints. Plus the fries being cooked in peanut oil makes them a little healthier fat profile. So that is nice. I got a lot less fries this time. I think they used the small cup it was not as big as last time.
gphagan1
Legend
Oh yeah definitely listen to coach…he obviously knows his stuff.
PolishHamm3r77
Well-known member
I always saw Rich Piana in his vids go to The Habit Burger Grill late night. I found one 35 min away, dying to try. All I need is a Bentley, full body tats, and I’m good to go.Don’t know if you have a Whataburger or Fuddruckers, but both have great burgers, especially Fuddruckers. At Fuddruckers they cook your burger as big and seasoned the way you like, but they have a toppings bar that you can load up on every topping you can imagine, really good place. But both do a good job of cooking burgers the right way and seasoned, not just bland, as a lot of the burger joints do. The Whataburger here, on weekends, has a line of cars going into the street, because of all the college kids here, but the parking lot is like a car show on Saturdays, and the young ladies around here are quite a show in the summer themselves.
Love a good burger
Want to try the MASSIVE one at Fuds
MrKleen73
Legend
Yeah, leaning on him completely at this point.
I did the massive one at fudds once but no bun, just cut it up and turned it into a burger salad when I was doing low carb. It was damn good. I used as much of the fixings as I wanted and made it into perfection. LOL I don't remember if I ate it all or saved half. I imagine back then I ate it all because I was intermittent fasting and cramming my daily calories into 2-8 hours depending on if a training day or cardio day. Cardio days I would fast 20-22 hours then have one big meal anywhere from 1200-1800 calories.
Going to do a session with my posing coach in 30 minutes, just finished my "preworkout" meal so I got 40g of carbs to help with a pump and energy for posing, and then going to go to the gym to do cardio since I didn't do it last night. I gotta get my 6 days. Today I bump to 50 minutes, 45 is already grueling. Now is the time to test mental strength, I go hypo for a bit every cardio session, and have to push through it. It's rough but the more I get used to it the more it becomes just an "it is what it is"
kind of thing.
I only went up .4lbs after last night but I think they gave me a small fry and not the regular, so that may explain me not really filling up like I expected. I do look tighter, or did this morning. I will post up some shots to compare later.
PolishHamm3r77
Well-known member
50 min on 1700 kcal. Wowsers!!! Hate the feeling of going hypo
Segansational
Well-known member
Looking awesome in here Kleen! Might be lighting, but don't forget to really flex your quads still on the MM. You have such great detail in your other poses on them. Can't wait to see these at stage weight!
MrKleen73
Legend
Yeah, it sucks!!!!
Thanks!
Yeah, some is lighting, getting my body over them, sometimes I lose legs if I am trying to correct something I feel off doing on upper body. Also the crab stance makes it harder for me. Coach told me to push out through my balls of my feet today that is would help activate them more easily. After the pics from this morning I will post pics he sent from the session to show me how things are looking.
Alright here are some shots for comparison.
Post Refeed
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MrKleen73
Legend
These are the tweaked poses from the session. He said the triceps took the snap shot as I was coming out of it but it still looked very impressive which is nice to hear.
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The last one is the classic pose he picked for me. He asked me to show him my vacuum then told me he thinks I can have it very impressive by the show with consistent work. I like the lines of it already and once I drop this last 10lbs off the vacuum will be deep and the lower chest should be pretty damn tight by then.
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The last one is the classic pose he picked for me. He asked me to show him my vacuum then told me he thinks I can have it very impressive by the show with consistent work. I like the lines of it already and once I drop this last 10lbs off the vacuum will be deep and the lower chest should be pretty damn tight by then.
Hyde
Legend
Regarding libido…I’ve always heard it gets bad at a point in prep. Looking at your stack, I don’t see how it couldn’t be. Too little estrogenic activity as mentioned, and especially just dieting hard for an extended period…. I can tell you by day 2 of my extended fasts, my libido normally disappears until the calories come back. The body doesn’t have enough resources to be worried about mating 
gphagan1
Legend
Yeah the body is in survival mode at that point, and uses the nutrients as fuel for recovery and repair over mating, but Sildenafil can push through that barrier so the night games can continue….just stay hydrated.Regarding libido…I’ve always heard it gets bad at a point in prep. Looking at your stack, I don’t see how it couldn’t be. Too little estrogenic activity as mentioned, and especially just dieting hard for an extended period…. I can tell you by day 2 of my extended fasts, my libido normally disappears until the calories come back. The body doesn’t have enough resources to be worried about mating
gphagan1
Legend
In these shots that second from the top, the first crab pose, is excellent….it looks like you hit on everything in that one and really shows how balanced you are (again that’s one of the best things about Frank Zane, back in the day. Even though he wasn’t huge, he could compete against the big boys because of being balanced and excellent at posing, highlighting strengths and covering weaknesses). That side tricep pose, second from bottom, is really on point as well.
Yeah, he’s right, that last classic pose would be a good one to finish with. You would be pumped, your quads and biceps already are good now, in a few more weeks you’ll be shredded.
This is a really cool journey, and it’s great you’re logging especially since it really looks like you will probably be able to go pro by next year and you’re in your 50s. Ha that’s proof and motivation for us other old farts of what can be done.
Dustin07
Legend
It still blows my mind how much progress you can see in such short periods of time. The conditioning is looking fantastic! To add on to what Hyde said, yeah dude regardless of calories and hormones add to that how freakin' busy you've been lately. Sometimes it seems like libido needs a rest period too, just like the mind and muscles.
I bet that skin tightens up for you quite nicely. I have noticed the past couple years anytime I cut 10lbs+ the skin can feel loose for a day or two then tighten back up. The first time it happened was like May 2023 I think and I was like damn, what was the point in bulking and cutting if I just have saggy skin to deal with now lol. like 2 days later it was fine
I bet that skin tightens up for you quite nicely. I have noticed the past couple years anytime I cut 10lbs+ the skin can feel loose for a day or two then tighten back up. The first time it happened was like May 2023 I think and I was like damn, what was the point in bulking and cutting if I just have saggy skin to deal with now lol. like 2 days later it was fine
MrKleen73
Legend
Yeah, I can believe it, and we are definitely in the deep end of the pool right now at 1698 calories and 5 hours of 75-85% Max Heart Rate cardio a week.Regarding libido…I’ve always heard it gets bad at a point in prep. Looking at your stack, I don’t see how it couldn’t be. Too little estrogenic activity as mentioned, and especially just dieting hard for an extended period…. I can tell you by day 2 of my extended fasts, my libido normally disappears until the calories come back. The body doesn’t have enough resources to be worried about mating
Yes Sir, so far so good!Yeah the body is in survival mode at that point, and uses the nutrients as fuel for recovery and repair over mating, but Sildenafil can push through that barrier so the night games can continue….just stay hydrated.
Thanks, my coach agrees, he can't pick between them when I have both of them nailed down. So he wants me to open with the hands touching, then after I hold it for a couple of seconds, and then finish off with a crab. He said the way I am able to display my traps and square off my chest while still holding defined abs just makes it too good not to use as well. I already started practicing doing some vacuums and will practice them every day as well as practice this shot specifically. We have decided we are going to go with left side side chest, and right side triceps shot, so I don't really have to waste time practicing the others. He told me if I have these changes down come Sunday we will move on to transitions and whatnot as soon as we run through the mandatories. That is when we can start putting some sort of routine together.In these shots that second from the top, the first crab pose, is excellent….it looks like you hit on everything in that one and really shows how balanced you are (again that’s one of the best things about Frank Zane, back in the day. Even though he wasn’t huge, he could compete against the big boys because of being balanced and excellent at posing, highlighting strengths and covering weaknesses). That side tricep pose, second from bottom, is really on point as well.
Yeah, he’s right, that last classic pose would be a good one to finish with. You would be pumped, your quads and biceps already are good now, in a few more weeks you’ll be shredded.
This is a really cool journey, and it’s great you’re logging especially since it really looks like you will probably be able to go pro by next year and you’re in your 50s. Ha that’s proof and motivation for us other old farts of what can be done.
Thanks Dustin, I am happy I am getting confirmations from people regularly because I am trying to stay out of my head with going early into this show. I know in the next coming weeks the weight that comes off will be twice as noticeable as the last 5-10lbs lost but I of course still look to my insecurities first and see where I need improvement before seeing the good. DOn't get me wrong I see the improvements, and am definitely getting excited and motivated, but I have a level of conditioning in my head I want to be at on stage and right now my visually at least I have a decent way to go. My first prep was a long and slow 20 weeker, and I was super lean a month out. So I don't have any frame of reference for how quickly we can knock through what is left of the fat. However I feel like 5lbs will get me very close and 10 is probably gonna be insane. So all of the positive feedback is truly appreciated. Kind of keeps me from second guessing myself, and creating stress where there doesn't need to be any.It still blows my mind how much progress you can see in such short periods of time. The conditioning is looking fantastic! To add on to what Hyde said, yeah dude regardless of calories and hormones add to that how freakin' busy you've been lately. Sometimes it seems like libido needs a rest period too, just like the mind and muscles.
I bet that skin tightens up for you quite nicely. I have noticed the past couple years anytime I cut 10lbs+ the skin can feel loose for a day or two then tighten back up. The first time it happened was like May 2023 I think and I was like damn, what was the point in bulking and cutting if I just have saggy skin to deal with now lol. like 2 days later it was fine
Also everyone will be happy to know the plumbing still works, and libido had zero issues once the wife let me know it was go time last night!
Hyde
Legend
Libido and sexual function are not remotely the same thing - your function on Tren will be top of the PECKING order 
You 100% already look like a true bodybuilder; if you stepped on stage right now you would not be an embarrassment with your size/condition and ability to strike a pose. Remember that although the peak will be much more drastic and impressive to the trained eye, to 99% of the population you already look like you belong there.
You 100% already look like a true bodybuilder; if you stepped on stage right now you would not be an embarrassment with your size/condition and ability to strike a pose. Remember that although the peak will be much more drastic and impressive to the trained eye, to 99% of the population you already look like you belong there.
MrKleen73
Legend
Thanks! Yeah I definitely agree on that. I have had people ask if I already did it, or if it is now and when I tell them I still have about 10lbs to lose they are all shocked. I also know what I specifically can look like when very lean, and know it truly is just around the corner. We still have over a month, and every week the changes are pretty noticeable. I have just always kind of been that guy at a show looking at guys who are not in condition and wondering why they put themselves on display like that against others that were obviously more prepared.Libido and sexual function are not remotely the same thing - your function on Tren will be top of the PECKING order
You 100% already look like a true bodybuilder; if you stepped on stage right now you would not be an embarrassment with your size/condition and ability to strike a pose. Remember that although the peak will be much more drastic and impressive to the trained eye, to 99% of the population you already look like you belong there.
Yeah, I definitely don't have much of a libido compared to normal. I am typically a horndog of sorts. I did make her quite happy last night, I am sure the tren gave a little something extra to it, and I was hard as a rock so happy with that.
I am about to eat again and head to the gym here shortly.
Dustin07
Legend
Yeah, I definitely don't have much of a libido compared to normal. I am typically a horndog of sorts. I did make her quite happy last night, I am sure the tren gave a little something extra to it, and I was hard as a rock so happy with that.
obviously I don't know anything about Tren, but Alpha Gel man... two pumps pretty much guarantees I'll be waking up at 3am
MrKleen73
Legend
Thank you Sir!
Haha, I think my prolactin actually went up and that probably also is part of the libido issue. My nips started getting sensitive a couple days ago, and then the nipples got a little lighter, and were staying hard so I knew what was up. Spoke with @Hyde and increased my daily intake of P-5-P, they already feel just a little better. Not sure if they will have much effect on libido, but it could. Again though, not worried about it as long as performance is good. Having a lower libido closer to what my wife has is actually a little refreshing. However as mentioned performance, well it is top notch. Wife is definitely happy.obviously I don't know anything about Tren, but Alpha Gel man... two pumps pretty much guarantees I'll be waking up at 3am
If the increases P-5-P doesn't do the trick I will add an AI back into the mix. I have not needed one since we started the new cycle at 350mg Test, and 525mg Mast, but the addition of tren may have pushed it over the edge or exposed that it was low enough not to give me estrogenic sides but still high enough that the tren has plenty to increase prolactin. If adding the AI into the mix doesn't do the trick then I will add in the caber, but trying to avoid that if possible.
gphagan1
Legend
Yeah man, good advice by Hyde on the P5P. The times I’ve done Trest I always use SNS Inhibit P, which the main ingredient is P5P, and thankfully never had to use Caber. I always had Caber on hand but never had to deploy. I’m glad too because I have heard it can be some nasty stuff, but it does increase libido. But you definitely don’t want to let prolactin get out of hand, and I have heard Caber works quick, but hopefully the P5P is enough. The good thing is you are really in tune with your body, and it sounds like you’re on top of everything well before anything gets out of hand. Like you said though if your wife doesn’t normally have the same drive as you, she’s probably thankful Tren isn’t putting through the roof. My wife used to joke about having to put on her running shoes when she would hear a started Trest.
MrKleen73
Legend
Yeah, I really trust @Hyde when it comes to modifying things to take care of my health. The difference is already night and day bumping from 200 to 800 a day almost immediately stopped the nipple sensitivity, swelling and discoloration. You know once they nips lighten up at the tip prolactin is doing something.... At least that is what I have noticed on myself and others who use around me. I am going to gradually bump back down from the maximum dose over the next couple of days to see if 400-600 does the trick instead. Either way happy to see things correcting themselves so quickly.Yeah man, good advice by Hyde on the P5P. The times I’ve done Trest I always use SNS Inhibit P, which the main ingredient is P5P, and thankfully never had to use Caber. I always had Caber on hand but never had to deploy. I’m glad too because I have heard it can be some nasty stuff, but it does increase libido. But you definitely don’t want to let prolactin get out of hand, and I have heard Caber works quick, but hopefully the P5P is enough. The good thing is you are really in tune with your body, and it sounds like you’re on top of everything well before anything gets out of hand. Like you said though if your wife doesn’t normally have the same drive as you, she’s probably thankful Tren isn’t putting through the roof. My wife used to joke about having to put on her running shoes when she would hear a started Trest.
Cardio yesterday was rough.... I tried to do it at lunch yesterday before having any real starches for the day and just simply didn't have enough in me to get through. I pushed it for 25 minutes and called it, deciding to go to the gym after work to finish on an elliptical that has a good stride for me. I am sure some of this was from it being the day after leg day, but I was frustrated since I didn't finish and had a hard time getting to my target heart rate. So, I decided to push myself an extra 5 minutes last night and do 30 more instead of just 25. I also did some posing practice before hand. Not holding poses for long or anything just trying to get into them about 3 times each, got a nice pump, and a little winded then went down and did work on the elliptical.
The caloric drop is really starting to weigh on me, that and some sides from the tren. Got them there tren sweats from going hypo at night. Sleep still seems pretty good but a little more restless. Still getting sleep though.
7/11/24 - Fasted Weight 197.2lbs - face is really starting to thin out, abs are becoming very evident even when standing relaxed. Veins in abs, obliques, thighs, shoulders and even a couple in my upper back have surfaced. Skin is looking decently tight this morning as well.
Energy is rough, I am simply running on fumes. I put my bags in the car this morning sat down in the car, took a deep breath and sighed gathering up energy to pick the keys up to start the car and JoAnn just bust out laughing, then said you poor baby! She was like you are just dead aren't you. I told her, oh yeah, I am toast, but we are gonna push through it anyway. This is the time where I find out if I am bodybuilder or a hobbyist. The difference is the determination to buckle down when most would want to give up.
gphagan1
Legend
I’m sure the heat and humidity isn’t helping you any either. We’ve had unusually high heat and humidity here in Georgia all summer, and I know it’s been rougher for you guys there in Texas.
And as far as whether you’re a bodybuilder or a hobbyist, rest assured my man you’re definitely a bodybuilder. Just look at the challenges you’ve already overcome the last year. I know the last few weeks is always the toughest, but you’ve got the resolve from all those previous challenges to push through. Ha, and I’ve always seen that even though the final few weeks is tougher, man there’s just something about being close enough to see the finish line that gives you that extra burst to finish strong.
MrKleen73
Legend
Yessir! I find myself leaning into it more the harder it gets. I sometimes falter temporarily due to exhaustion from the deficit but then gather my resolve and push myself even when I don't know how I am going to make it. Sometimes I don't make it all the way to the end, but I damn sure make it up later.I’m sure the heat and humidity isn’t helping you any either. We’ve had unusually high heat and humidity here in Georgia all summer, and I know it’s been rougher for you guys there in Texas.
And as far as whether you’re a bodybuilder or a hobbyist, rest assured my man you’re definitely a bodybuilder. Just look at the challenges you’ve already overcome the last year. I know the last few weeks is always the toughest, but you’ve got the resolve from all those previous challenges to push through. Ha, and I’ve always seen that even though the final few weeks is tougher, man there’s just something about being close enough to see the finish line that gives you that extra burst to finish strong.
Hyde
Legend
Do you know how you eat an entire elephant?
One bite at a time.
That’s all you need to focus on, the next bite.
MrKleen73
Legend
Or in my case the next step, one bite at a time was during my bulk. Honestly it was no easier, as you already know. Not eating is a lot is so much easier than doing a lot when not eating much. As much as I mention these things being hard, or how exxausted I am, I am actually enjoying the process. I am feeling victorious every time I get something done that feels like I am not going to be able to make it. Talking about it just reenforces my resolve to get through it. I love that I have you all in here supporting me, you have no idea how much easier it makes it for me to deal with having you all in here.
MrKleen73
Legend
I mistakenly tried a new machine for cardio today, it was an adaptive stride elliptical. The elliptical across the street simply does not fit my body well, so I wanted to see if this was any better. Unfortunately it was not and my knee started aching about 17 minutes into it, and I decided to call it at the 20 minute mark. I moved to the treadmill but my knee just wasn't having it either, and the recumbent bike was not really any better. I opted to let it cool down, and will do my last 25 minutes of cardio after I train shoulders and triceps tonight. I will likely do 30 again because the last 5 minutes was for sure subpar work not close enough to my target heart rate to really count for much. If things don't go well then, I will just get off the machine, and remove some calories from my daily total to make up the difference. Can't be falling behind on the fat loss. So I have to make an adjustment somewhere. The elliptical at the gym I train at in the evening seems to have a more favorable stride for me so I am not uncomfortable or dealing with things aching.
MrKleen73
Legend
Here are some shots from yesterday's check in. I think the classic pose looks pretty decent for just learning it. Still trying to fine tune the angle so I can get my waist a little more diagonal to make it look a little smaller. Lower pec fat is coming along and getting smaller faster, so we are a few lbs out from some big changes along the bottom of my chest that should really improve my look a lot. The fat on the lower pec obscures the lip of my lower pec making my chest look smaller than it is. I now have full on feathering / striations in my outer sweep. Not a lot of sub-q fat left and a good amount of weight to lose which means the visceral fat is going to go soon, and my waist is going to get tiny "for me anyway" before we hit the mark.
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Last edited:
MrKleen73
Legend
Oh yeah, cardio last night was a bust, my knee just wasn't having it. So I cut 300 calories off of my day to make up for the 2nd half of cardio. Not ideal but making it to where I can't train or do cardio for a few days isn't an option. Rest and adjust, that is the approach for right now. I may increase my curcumin around training to keep my lower back and knees feeling okay at least for a couple days.
Arms (Saturday)
Saturday, Jul 06, 2024 at 6:41pm
Seated Cable Overhead Extension
Set 1: 70 lbs x 20 @ 8 rpe
Set 2: 80 lbs x 15 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 3: 90 lbs x 10 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 4: 70 lbs x 12 @ 10 rpe
Triceps Kickback (Cable)
Set 1: 40 lbs x 12 @ 7 rpe
Set 2: 50 lbs x 12 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 3: 50 lbs x 10 @ 10 rpe
EZ Bar Skullcrusher
Set 1: 45 lbs x 15 @ 8 rpe
Set 2: 45 lbs x 12 @ 9 rpe
Set 3: 45 lbs x 8 @ 8.5 rpe
Diamond Push Up
Set 1: 19 reps
Set 2: 8 reps
Set 3: 6 reps
Single Arm Preacher Curl
Set 1: 35 lbs x 10 @ 9 rpe
Set 2: 30 lbs x 8 @ 9 rpe
Set 3: 25 lbs x 8 @ 10 rpe
EZ Bar Biceps Curl
Set 1: 45 lbs x 9 @ 10 rpe [Failure]
Set 2: 40 lbs x 8 @ 10 rpe
Set 3: 40 lbs x 1 @ 9.5 rpe
===========================================================================
Chest & Biceps (Monday)
Monday, Jul 08, 2024 at 8:43pm
Incline Chest Press (Machine)
Set 1: 80 lbs x 13 @ 8 rpe
Set 2: 80 lbs x 10 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 3: 80 lbs x 8 @ 10 rpe [Failure]
Set 4: 80 lbs x 4 @ 8.5 rpe [Drop]
Set 5: 80 lbs x 1 @ 8.5 rpe [Drop]
Bench Press (Dumbbell)
Set 1: 50 lbs x 10 @ 8 rpe
Set 2: 50 lbs x 9 @ 8 rpe
Set 3: 50 lbs x 8 @ 9 rpe
Chest Fly (Dumbbell)
Set 1: 30 lbs x 12 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 2: 30 lbs x 9 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 3: 30 lbs x 7 @ 9.5 rpe
Lying Dumbbell Curls
Set 1: 20 lbs x 15 @ 8 rpe
Set 2: 20 lbs x 13 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 3: 20 lbs x 11 @ 9.5 rpe
Bicep Curl (Dumbbell)
Set 1: 20 lbs x 15 @ 7.5 rpe
Set 2: 20 lbs x 14 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 3: 20 lbs x 10 @ 10 rpe
======================================================================
Legs Tuesday - Slightty Lighter Day
Leg Press - 480x15, 480x15, 480x12, 480x12 @1.5-2.5 RIR
Hack Squat 135x15
Pendulum Squat - 70x15, 70x14, 70x12 @ 2RIR
Lunges - 20x15, 20x12 @ 1.5-2 RIR
Glute Ham Raise - 20 PR!!!! 13 1.5-2 RIR -Pretty excited about the 20 reps here, previous high was 14 if I remember correctly.
Calf Raises 190 - Burn Out x 2 sets
=======================================================================
Shoulders & Triceps - Thursday, Jul 11, 2024 at 8:01pm - Slightly lowered intensity avoiding failure trying to stick in the 1.5-2.5 RIR range on just about everything.
Arnold Press (Dumbbell)
Set 1: 40 lbs x 17 @ 8 rpe [Failure]
Set 2: 40 lbs x 15 @ 8.5 rpe [Failure]
Medial Delt Swings - My shoulders looked fugging SICK!!! Lines and detail during these that I have not seen before or in so long I don't remember having seen them look like that before. Looked like I had dickskin on my shoulders it was so detailed and gnarly looking.
Set 1: 15 lbs x 20 @ 8 rpe
Set 2: 20 lbs x 15 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 3: 20 lbs x 12 @ 8 rpe
Set 4: 15 lbs x 20 @ 8 rpe [Failure]
Incline DB Rear Delt Flyes
Set 1: 15 lbs x 20 @ 7 rpe
Set 2: 20 lbs x 20 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 3: 20 lbs x 13 @ 8.5 rpe
DB Upright Rows - Attempted and aborted - this immediately lit up my triceps tendon, in a bad way. This not only prompted me to abort these.
DB Side Swing Long Range partials - 35x20 - I did these for a little more medial delt and trap work but my triceps tendon was realy stinging when done. This prompted me to choose a light session for triceps. Just get some blood in there and, do enough reps to challenge the muscle without beating the tendon up too much.
Cable Overhead Triceps Extension
Set 1: 40 lbs x 15 @ 7 rpe
Set 2: 40 lbs x 15 @ 7.5 rpe
Set 3: 40 lbs x 12 @ 8 rpe
EZ Bar Triceps Extension Cable
Set 1: 70 lbs x 15 @ 7.5 rpe
Set 2: 70 lbs x 15 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 3: 70 lbs x 12 @ 8.5 rpe
====================================================================
Really liking how I am looking and how things just continue to tighten up even when the scale isn't moving by a large margin. Adjusting training to make it through prep without breaking anything while still trying to keep the RIR between 1-2. Some of the recent study reviews are showing that in trained individuals there really is no significant difference in hypertrophy stimulus from a 2RIR and a set taken to failure other than the additional amount of systemic fatigue from the failure is much higher. So no real reason for me to risk injury or cause more recovery needs than I can supply fuel to recover from.
He started me at 50mg and wanted me to stay on that all the way through both shows so it will be a total of 8 weeks on it by the end. He said it is very low on toxicity and not a worry there. Only concern I have is if it crushes SHBG to the point there is nothing to carry the gear into the muscle. Which is something I heard Vigorous Steve talking bout the other day. He actually says there are not really any good reasons for seasoned lifter to use it, and it was only good for a couple of circumstance. However people are always using it in prep so not sure if that is old dogmatic though of having it in, or if the concern over crushing SHGB is not as bad as he implied.
I did ask him about how we were going to run the Winstrol now that we may need to run it longer than the original plan of 4 weeks 2 at 50 and 2 at 100. Since we don't have to win the first one I wonder if he will just have me start at the 4rth week out from nationals which will give me a week at 50mg to help pull some more fullness and size. I am also pretty sure we will be running some SD during peak week but maybe not the first show depending on scale weight during peak week. I imagine if nothing else we will at least take 20-30 mg some time around weigh ins then start the refeed meal. Of course a lot of that is up in the air until we know what steps we are taking to come in under the 187.25lb cut off for classic. if we have to do anything drastic for that show to make weight peak week will obviously just be low carb all week until the weigh in then a dirty refeed like the 5 Guys meal or something.
This is my current stack including support supps for those who are curious.
• Current supplementation:
Gear
Arms (Saturday)
Saturday, Jul 06, 2024 at 6:41pm
Seated Cable Overhead Extension
Set 1: 70 lbs x 20 @ 8 rpe
Set 2: 80 lbs x 15 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 3: 90 lbs x 10 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 4: 70 lbs x 12 @ 10 rpe
Triceps Kickback (Cable)
Set 1: 40 lbs x 12 @ 7 rpe
Set 2: 50 lbs x 12 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 3: 50 lbs x 10 @ 10 rpe
EZ Bar Skullcrusher
Set 1: 45 lbs x 15 @ 8 rpe
Set 2: 45 lbs x 12 @ 9 rpe
Set 3: 45 lbs x 8 @ 8.5 rpe
Diamond Push Up
Set 1: 19 reps
Set 2: 8 reps
Set 3: 6 reps
Single Arm Preacher Curl
Set 1: 35 lbs x 10 @ 9 rpe
Set 2: 30 lbs x 8 @ 9 rpe
Set 3: 25 lbs x 8 @ 10 rpe
EZ Bar Biceps Curl
Set 1: 45 lbs x 9 @ 10 rpe [Failure]
Set 2: 40 lbs x 8 @ 10 rpe
Set 3: 40 lbs x 1 @ 9.5 rpe
===========================================================================
Chest & Biceps (Monday)
Monday, Jul 08, 2024 at 8:43pm
Incline Chest Press (Machine)
Set 1: 80 lbs x 13 @ 8 rpe
Set 2: 80 lbs x 10 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 3: 80 lbs x 8 @ 10 rpe [Failure]
Set 4: 80 lbs x 4 @ 8.5 rpe [Drop]
Set 5: 80 lbs x 1 @ 8.5 rpe [Drop]
Bench Press (Dumbbell)
Set 1: 50 lbs x 10 @ 8 rpe
Set 2: 50 lbs x 9 @ 8 rpe
Set 3: 50 lbs x 8 @ 9 rpe
Chest Fly (Dumbbell)
Set 1: 30 lbs x 12 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 2: 30 lbs x 9 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 3: 30 lbs x 7 @ 9.5 rpe
Lying Dumbbell Curls
Set 1: 20 lbs x 15 @ 8 rpe
Set 2: 20 lbs x 13 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 3: 20 lbs x 11 @ 9.5 rpe
Bicep Curl (Dumbbell)
Set 1: 20 lbs x 15 @ 7.5 rpe
Set 2: 20 lbs x 14 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 3: 20 lbs x 10 @ 10 rpe
======================================================================
Legs Tuesday - Slightty Lighter Day
Leg Press - 480x15, 480x15, 480x12, 480x12 @1.5-2.5 RIR
Hack Squat 135x15
Pendulum Squat - 70x15, 70x14, 70x12 @ 2RIR
Lunges - 20x15, 20x12 @ 1.5-2 RIR
Glute Ham Raise - 20 PR!!!! 13 1.5-2 RIR -Pretty excited about the 20 reps here, previous high was 14 if I remember correctly.
Calf Raises 190 - Burn Out x 2 sets
=======================================================================
Shoulders & Triceps - Thursday, Jul 11, 2024 at 8:01pm - Slightly lowered intensity avoiding failure trying to stick in the 1.5-2.5 RIR range on just about everything.
Arnold Press (Dumbbell)
Set 1: 40 lbs x 17 @ 8 rpe [Failure]
Set 2: 40 lbs x 15 @ 8.5 rpe [Failure]
Medial Delt Swings - My shoulders looked fugging SICK!!! Lines and detail during these that I have not seen before or in so long I don't remember having seen them look like that before. Looked like I had dickskin on my shoulders it was so detailed and gnarly looking.
Set 1: 15 lbs x 20 @ 8 rpe
Set 2: 20 lbs x 15 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 3: 20 lbs x 12 @ 8 rpe
Set 4: 15 lbs x 20 @ 8 rpe [Failure]
Incline DB Rear Delt Flyes
Set 1: 15 lbs x 20 @ 7 rpe
Set 2: 20 lbs x 20 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 3: 20 lbs x 13 @ 8.5 rpe
DB Upright Rows - Attempted and aborted - this immediately lit up my triceps tendon, in a bad way. This not only prompted me to abort these.
DB Side Swing Long Range partials - 35x20 - I did these for a little more medial delt and trap work but my triceps tendon was realy stinging when done. This prompted me to choose a light session for triceps. Just get some blood in there and, do enough reps to challenge the muscle without beating the tendon up too much.
Cable Overhead Triceps Extension
Set 1: 40 lbs x 15 @ 7 rpe
Set 2: 40 lbs x 15 @ 7.5 rpe
Set 3: 40 lbs x 12 @ 8 rpe
EZ Bar Triceps Extension Cable
Set 1: 70 lbs x 15 @ 7.5 rpe
Set 2: 70 lbs x 15 @ 8.5 rpe
Set 3: 70 lbs x 12 @ 8.5 rpe
====================================================================
Really liking how I am looking and how things just continue to tighten up even when the scale isn't moving by a large margin. Adjusting training to make it through prep without breaking anything while still trying to keep the RIR between 1-2. Some of the recent study reviews are showing that in trained individuals there really is no significant difference in hypertrophy stimulus from a 2RIR and a set taken to failure other than the additional amount of systemic fatigue from the failure is much higher. So no real reason for me to risk injury or cause more recovery needs than I can supply fuel to recover from.
Thanks Man, you know me, I am honest almost to a fault at times. I have no shame in admitting what I am doing is ridiculously hard, and requires an obsessive level of discipline. Many want to brag or boast that things are hunky dory, but I feel you have to embrace the suck, and hiding it is the opposite of that. I am choosing this suck to obtain something 99.9 people in the world will never achieve or even get close too. So I wear the challenge as a badge of honor!
Thanks Jim, he was the perfect recommendation for me. No nonsense, strong personality, supportive when needed, and knows what he is doing. For the price I honestly don't think there are much better out there, and he definitely won't be at these prices for very long if he starts making pros! I can't thank you enough for that hook up!
Thank you Sir! Yeah, big changes these last few weeks. I get more excited every time I do a check in and look at it against a week ago and see some new detail, or less lower pec and back fat. As lean as I already am in most of my body this next 10 lbs is going to come mostly from the trunk and core area so each lb should be an obvious change of some sort.
He started me at 50mg and wanted me to stay on that all the way through both shows so it will be a total of 8 weeks on it by the end. He said it is very low on toxicity and not a worry there. Only concern I have is if it crushes SHBG to the point there is nothing to carry the gear into the muscle. Which is something I heard Vigorous Steve talking bout the other day. He actually says there are not really any good reasons for seasoned lifter to use it, and it was only good for a couple of circumstance. However people are always using it in prep so not sure if that is old dogmatic though of having it in, or if the concern over crushing SHGB is not as bad as he implied.
I did ask him about how we were going to run the Winstrol now that we may need to run it longer than the original plan of 4 weeks 2 at 50 and 2 at 100. Since we don't have to win the first one I wonder if he will just have me start at the 4rth week out from nationals which will give me a week at 50mg to help pull some more fullness and size. I am also pretty sure we will be running some SD during peak week but maybe not the first show depending on scale weight during peak week. I imagine if nothing else we will at least take 20-30 mg some time around weigh ins then start the refeed meal. Of course a lot of that is up in the air until we know what steps we are taking to come in under the 187.25lb cut off for classic. if we have to do anything drastic for that show to make weight peak week will obviously just be low carb all week until the weigh in then a dirty refeed like the 5 Guys meal or something.
This is my current stack including support supps for those who are curious.
• Current supplementation:
Gear
- Test E 100mg/EOD (350mg/wk)
- Mast E 150mg/EOD (525mg/wk)
- Tren A 30mg/EOD (105mg/wk) - Prolactin Control - run P-5-P @ 800mcg daily if that doesn't work .5mg caber every 5 days.
- 50mg Proviron
- Arimidex if needed - Exemestane 5mg every other shot
- Nolvadex 20mg daily to help eliminate gyno
- Starting PT 141 200mcg twice a day starting Saturday for additional fat loss.
- Telmisartan 120mg/Day
- Serious Nutrition Solutions Cardiovascular Support XT
- Kidney Assist XT 1.5 servings he bumped this when we added Tren to keep kidney safer, taking 9 caps AM and 9 caps PM.
- Creatine HCL 3g a day - 6g on training days
- DIM 300mg
- D3 5000IU
- K2 - P5P 1 cap
- Pre-workout = Pump Addict or Black Market CUTS (Thermogenic Pre-workout)
- 5mg Super Cardarine
- NAC 1000mg
- TUDCA 500mg
- 4 caps extra strength Curcumin
- 4 caps extra strength Fish oil*
- 1 serving Glucosamine
Last edited:
BennyMagoo79
Well-known member
lol ‘dickskin’!
Yeah dude, you are looking shredded now. Awesome work!
Yeah dude, you are looking shredded now. Awesome work!
Segansational
Well-known member
Wow man, the shredz are coming in now!! This is just fun to watch the changes - can't wait to see how you look stage day.
What's the SD for week of? Glycogen retention just to fill out a little?
What's the SD for week of? Glycogen retention just to fill out a little?
MrKleen73
Legend
Thanks!
Thanks, yeah glycogen retention, he said either SD or Anadrol and I told him I had plenty SD so it was a no brainer on which to go with.
PolishHamm3r77
Well-known member
my mind immediately went to this episode of Always Sunny in Philadelphia
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PolishHamm3r77
Well-known member
In all seriousness, you look SICK! Way to work!!!
Hyde
Legend
Everything you’ve written with the protocol, supports, potential 5 guys after having to flatten to make weight, it all 100% jives and the doses seem as good a balance of safe/effective as possible from all the years of things I’ve read/heard. He’s not taking weird chances or overly-relying on drugs or cardio or trying to do something unique with any of this - it all makes sense on paper, FWIW.
Regarding the SHBG…test/tren/mast and a DHT derivative oral(s) pre-comp is very classic and common. Your SHBG is crushed just from a good dose of mast (it gets quite a bit lower just from injecting a few hundred mg of any gear). You may benefit from SHBG with regards to actually growing in off-season, or libido, but 100% great bodybuilders at contest do not need it to bring their best packages. If you give a guy Proviron & his SHBG tanks, but he obviously looks even better on stage…that tells you everything you need to know.
Regarding the SHBG…test/tren/mast and a DHT derivative oral(s) pre-comp is very classic and common. Your SHBG is crushed just from a good dose of mast (it gets quite a bit lower just from injecting a few hundred mg of any gear). You may benefit from SHBG with regards to actually growing in off-season, or libido, but 100% great bodybuilders at contest do not need it to bring their best packages. If you give a guy Proviron & his SHBG tanks, but he obviously looks even better on stage…that tells you everything you need to know.
MrKleen73
Legend
All great points, and yeah he is definitely a health considerate coach. I told him my concerns and we agreed to keep things on the more modest end of the spectrum. I mentioned the sleep issues since tren only on injection days, and he said we might pull it then. Said he would rather good sleep than trading that off for what tren brings to the table since there are other ways to get a similar look. I will give it a few more days and see how it all shakes out unless he sends something to actually change course.
I am impressed, and flustered at me not losing weight very fast. I see the physical changes and denser leaner muscle on display and surprised my muscles are holding so steady, possibly even growing on 1698 calories. Kind of wild.
Okay I am going to get ready for a posing session with my coach so I will probably have some pictures to share later.