USPA powerlifting state championships

On Dec 1st 2018 I competed in the USPA powerlifting state championships in New Mexico. I set lifetime best lifts in all three lifts. I lifted a 502.5/355/577.5/1430. I qualified for the 2019 USPA powerlifting national championships that will be held in July in Las Vegas Nevada.

The RKU 1st annual invitational weightlifting meet

On 12/15/18 my son and I completed in the RKU 1st annual weightlifting invitational.

My son is 11 and weighed in at 30.6k. He went 5/6 and lifted a 15/21/36. His clean and jerk was a lifetime best.

I weighed in at 138.8k. I lifted in the 40-44 AG SHW division. I lifted lifetime best lifts of 101/128/229. I took 1st place in my division. My clean and jerk was high enough to break the New Mexico state record if we had lifted in New Mexico instead of Texas.

Max day

On October 20th 2018 my powerlifting coach Vernon Smith is having me do a test day. I'll be attempting a 470 squat, 330 bench, and 520 deadlift. Those will all be lifetime best lifts. Based off of those numbers hell build the last part of the program for the Dec 1st USPA New Mexico state championships. I'm hoping to qualify for my first powerlifting national championships.

Powerlifting coach and life motivator

I go on and on about how awesome my powerlifting coach is. Every week I always send my coach a report on how training is going. I didn't this last week. He never lets anything fall through the cracks. He misses nothing. So he contacted me to see how everything was going. Here was our exchange. As you can see, he really is awesome.

Coach,
I was a little distracted this week  I did all the workouts. But i didn't take any notes. But I was confused why all my numbers were going up except my pull-ups. I'm back up to 300lbs. Which explains both the strength gain and getting worse at pull-ups.

Thanks for the reminder.
Cody

Hi Cody,

I imagine you’re feeling pretty disappointed about that. What do you think has led you back up that road? Life stressors? Boredom? Want for strength gains? 

The first step back on the weight loss wagon can be the hardest. I’ve felt that hopelessness too. It helped me to remember that it is only one step, though. Get back on the diet for one day, then two days, then a week, then it slowly becomes a habit again. It’s one hard step, but it’s one step I know you can take when you’re ready. 

Vernon

Phase 2 of training for the Dec 1st meet

Day

 1

Back squat (heavier) - warm up (bar x 10, 135x6, 185x4, 225x4, 275x3, 315x2, and 335x1) to 340x5, then do 2 back down sets of 5 reps with 320.

Bench press (lighter) - 3 sets of 5 reps (warm up with the bar x 10, 135x8, 185x4, 205x3, and 225x2; your working sets will all be with 240). 

Standing Overhead Press - 3 sets of 5 (warm up with the bar x 5 and 95x3; your working sets will all be with 115).

Side planks - 3 sets of a 40 second hold on each side.

Day 2

Deadlift - warm up (135x5, 225x5, 275x3, 315x2, and 345x1) to 375x5, then do 2 back down sets of 5 reps with 355. 

Pendlay Rows - 3 sets of 8 (warm up with 135x5; your working sets will all be with 170).

Pull ups - 3 sets of 6-8.

45 Degree Back Hyperextensions - 3 sets of 12 with a 35 lb. DB.

Day 3

Bench press (heavier) - warm up (bar x 10, 135x8, 185x4, 205x3, 225x2, and 245x1) to 255x5, then do 2 back down sets of 5 with 240.

Pin or dead stop bench press (start with the bar resting 1" above your chest on the safeties (in the power cage)) - 3 sets of 5 with 225.

Horizontal Cable Rows - 3 sets of 10 (try ~150 lbs.).

Close grip bench press - 3 sets of 8 with 165. 

Heavy DB carry - 3 sets of 150' with 80 lb. DBs. 

Day 4

Back Squats (lighter) - 3 sets of 5 (warm up with the bar x 10, 135x6, 185x4, 225x3, 275x2, and 315x1; your working sets will all be with 320). 

Front Squats - 3 sets of 5 (warm up with 135x6, 185x3, and 205x2; your working sets will all be with 225).

Rack pulls (from just above knees; lighter) - 3 sets of 5 (warm up with 135x6, 185x4, 225x3, 275x2, and 315x1; your working sets will all be with 320).

Lat pulldown - 3 sets of 10 (try about 120 lbs.).

Barbell Bicep Curls - 3 sets of 10 (use ~75 lbs. for these).

Day 5

Back squat (heavier) - warm up (bar x 10, 135x6, 185x4, 225x4, 275x3, 315x2, and 335x1) to 350x5, then do 3 back down sets of 5 reps with 325. 

Bench press (lighter) - 4 sets of 5 reps (warm up with the bar x 10, 135x8, 185x4, 205x3, and 225x2; your working sets will all be with 245).

Standing Overhead Press - 4 sets of 5 (warm up with the bar x 5 and 85x3; your working sets will all be with 120).

Side planks - 4 sets of a 45 second hold on each side.

Day 6

Deadlift - warm up (135x5, 225x5, 275x3, 315x2, 345x1, and 370x1) to 390x5, then do 3 back down sets of 5 reps with 360.

Pendlay Rows - 4 sets of 8 (warm up with 135x5; your working sets will all be with 175).

Pull ups - 4 sets of 6-8.

45 Degree Back Hyperextensions - 4 sets of 12 with a 35 lb. DB.

Day 7

Bench press (heavier) - warm up (bar x 10, 135x8, 185x4, 205x3, 225x2, and 245x2) to 265x5, then do 3 back down sets of 5 with 245.

Pin or dead stop bench press (start with the bar resting 1" above your chest on the safeties (in the power cage)) - 4 sets of 5 with 230.

Horizontal Cable Rows - 4 sets of 10 (try ~155 lbs.).

Close grip bench press - 4 sets of 8 with 170. 

Heavy DB carry - 4 sets of 150' with 80-85 lb. DBs. 

Day 8

Back Squats (lighter) - 4 sets of 5 (warm up with the bar x 10, 135x6, 185x4, 225x3, 275x2, and 315x1; your working sets will all be with 325). 

Front Squats - 4 sets of 5 (warm up with 135x6, 185x3, and 205x2; your working sets will all be with 235).

Rack pulls (from just above knees; lighter) - 4 sets of 5 (warm up with 135x6, 185x4, 225x3, 275x2, and 315x1; your working sets will all be with 325).

Lat pulldown - 4 sets of 10 (try about 125 lbs.).

Barbell Bicep Curls - 4 sets of 10 (use ~75-80 lbs. for these).

Day 9

Back squat (heavier) - warm up (bar x 10, 135x6, 185x4, 225x4, 275x3, 315x2, and 345x1) to 360x5, then do 4 back down sets of 5 reps with 330. 

Bench press (lighter) - 5 sets of 5 reps (warm up with the bar x 10, 135x8, 185x4, 205x3, and 225x2; your working sets will all be with 250). 

Standing Overhead Press - 4 sets of 5 (warm up with the bar x 5 and 95x3; your working sets will all be with 125).

Side planks - 4 sets of a 50 second hold on each side.

Day 10

Deadlift - warm up (135x5, 225x5, 275x3, 315x2, 345x1, and 370x1) to 405x5, then do 4 back down sets of 5 reps with 365. 

Pendlay Rows - 4 sets of 8 (warm up with 135x5; your working sets will all be with 180).

Pull ups - 4 sets of 6-8.

45 Degree Back Hyperextensions - 4 sets of 12 with a 35 lb. DB.

Day 11

Bench press (heavier) - warm up (bar x 10, 135x8, 185x4, 205x3, 225x2, and 245x2) to 275x5, then do 4 back down sets of 5 with 250.

Pin or dead stop bench press (start with the bar resting 1" above your chest on the safeties (in the power cage)) - 4 sets of 5 with 235.

Horizontal Cable Rows - 4 sets of 10 (try ~160 lbs.).

Close grip bench press - 4 sets of 8 with 175. 

Heavy DB carry - 4 sets of 150' with 85 lb. DBs. 

Day 12

Back Squats (lighter) - 5 sets of 5 (warm up with the bar x 10, 135x6, 185x4, 225x3, 275x2, and 315x1; your working sets will all be with 330). 

Front Squats - 4 sets of 5 (warm up with 135x6, 185x3, and 205x2; your working sets will all be with 245).

Rack pulls (from just above knees; lighter) - 4 sets of 5 (warm up with 135x6, 185x4, 225x3, 275x2, and 315x1; your working sets will all be with 330).

Lat pulldown - 4 sets of 10 (try about 130 lbs.).

Barbell Bicep Curls - 4 sets of 10 (use ~80 lbs. for these).

Day 13

Back squat (heavier) - warm up (bar x 10, 135x6, 185x4, 225x4, 275x3, and 315x1) to 2 sets of 3 reps with 325. 

Bench press (lighter) - 2 sets of 3 reps (warm up with the bar x 10, 135x8, 185x4, 205x3, and 225x1; your working sets will all be with 225). 

Standing Overhead Press - 2 sets of 3 (warm up with the bar x 5 and 95x3; your working sets will all be with 115).

Side planks - 2 sets of a 30 second hold on each side.

Day 14

Deadlift - warm up (135x5, 225x5, 275x3, 315x2, and 345x1) to 2 sets of 3 reps with 365. 

Pendlay Rows - 2 sets of 8 (warm up with 135x5; your working sets will all be with 165).

Pull ups - 2 sets of 6-8.

45 Degree Back Hyperextensions - 2 sets of 12 with bodyweight.

Day 15

Bench press (heavier) - warm up (bar x 10, 135x8, 185x4, 205x3, 225x2, and 245x1) to 2 sets of 3 reps with 250.

Pin or dead stop bench press (start with the bar resting 1" above your chest on the safeties (in the power cage)) - 2 sets of 5 with 205.

Horizontal Cable Rows - 2 sets of 10 (try ~145 lbs.).

Close grip bench press - 2 sets of 8 with 155. 

Heavy DB carry - 2 sets of 150' with 70 lb. DBs. 

Day 16

Back Squats (lighter) - 2 sets of 3 (warm up with the bar x 10, 135x6, 185x4, 225x3, 275x2, and 295x1; your working sets will all be with 300). 

Front Squats - 2 sets of 3 (warm up with 135x6, 185x3, and 205x2; your working sets will all be with 225).

Rack pulls (from just above knees; lighter) - 2 sets of 3 (warm up with 135x6, 185x4, 225x3, 275x2, and 295x1; your working sets will all be with 300).

Lat pulldown - 2 sets of 10 (try about 115 lbs.).

Barbell Bicep Curls - 2 sets of 10 (use ~70 lbs. for these).

Finally quit CrossFit

There was a three or four year period where I was struggling to decide if I wanted to do powerlifting or weightlifting. Dec 2017, after changing my mind a thousand times I decided to stick with powerlifting. I've been training and competing in powerlifting for 9 months and love it more and more every day.

Another struggle I've had is trying to figure out if I should do CrossFit or track and field training for cardio. I've been doing CrossFit since December and hate it. CrossFit is more effective than anything else I've ever done at making me lose weight. But the problem is I absolutely love training for track and field and despise CrossFit. It's not as effective as CrossFit. But I enjoy it more. Sunday I made a decision. After 9 months of lamenting I cancelled my CrossFit membership and started track training. Today was my first day of track and field full time for my cardio. I had a blast! I think I made a great decision.

Training block for Dec 1st 2018 USPA NM state championships

I keep accidentally erasing my training program and having to have me coach email it to me again. I'll keep it here so I don't delete it again.

My numbers are based on a 451lb squat, 320lb bench, and 501lb deadlift.

Day 1

Back squat (heavier) - warm up (bar x 10, 135x6, 185x4, 225x4, 255x3, 275x2, and 295x1) to 295x10, then do 2 back down sets of 10 reps with 275. 

Bench press (lighter) - 3 sets of 10 reps (warm up with the bar x 10, 135x8, 185x4, and 205x3; your working sets will all be with 210). 

Standing Overhead Press - 3 sets of 10 (warm up with the bar x 5 and 85x3; your working sets will all be with 85).

Side planks - 3 sets of a 30 second hold on each side.

Day 2

Deadlift - warm up (135x5, 225x5, 275x3, 295x3, and 315x2) to 325x10, then do 2 back down sets of 10 reps with 300.

Pendlay Rows - 3 sets of 10 (warm up with 135x5; your working sets will all be with 155).

Pull ups - 3 sets of 8-10.

45 Degree Back Hyperextensions - 3 sets of 15 with a 25 lb. DB.

Day 3

Bench press (heavier) - warm up (bar x 10, 135x8, 185x4, 205x3, and 225x2) to 225x10, then do 2 back down sets of 10 with 210.

Dips (add weight if possible) - 3 sets of 8-10.

Horizontal Cable Rows - 3 sets of 10-12 (try ~100 lbs.).

Close grip bench press - 3 sets of 10 with 175 (focus on speed and form -- no elbow flare).

Farmer's Carry (use handles) - 3 sets of 75’ with 45s and 35s on each side, each handle.

Day 4

Back Squats (lighter) - 3 sets of 10 (warm up with the bar x 10, 135x6, 185x4, 225x3, 255x2, and 270x1; your working sets will all be with 270). 

Front Squats - 3 sets of 10 (warm up with 135x6, and 180x3; your working sets will all be with 180). 

Rack Pulls (from just above knees; lighter) - 3 sets of 10 (warm up with 135x6, 185x4, 225x3, and 275x2; your working sets will all be with 275). 

Lat pulldown - 3 sets of 10-12 (try about 100-105 lbs.).

Barbell Bicep Curls - 3 sets of 10-12 (use ~70-75 lbs. for these).

Day 5

Back squat (heavier) - warm up (bar x 10, 135x6, 185x4, 225x4, 255x3, 275x2, and 295x1) to 305x10, then do 3 back down sets of 10 reps with 280. 

Bench press (lighter) - 4 sets of 10 reps (warm up with the bar x 10, 135x8, 185x4, and 205x3; your working sets will all be with 215).

Standing Overhead Press - 4 sets of 10 (warm up with the bar x 5 and 85x3; your working sets will all be with 90).

Side planks - 4 sets of a 35 second hold on each side.

Day 6

Deadlift - warm up (135x5, 225x5, 275x3, 295x3, and 315x2) to 335x10, then do 3 back down sets of 10 reps with 305. 

Pendlay Rows - 4 sets of 10 (warm up with 135x5; your working sets will all be with 160).

Pull ups - 4 sets of 8-10.

45 Degree Back Hyperextensions - 4 sets of 15 with a 25 lb. DB.

Day 7

Bench press (heavier) - warm up (bar x 10, 135x8, 185x4, 205x3, and 225x2) to 235x10, then do 3 back down sets of 10 with 215.

Dips (add weight if possible) - 4 sets of 8-10.

Horizontal Cable Rows - 4 sets of 10-12 (try ~105 lbs.).

Close grip bench press - 4 sets of 10 with 180 (focus on speed and form -- no elbow flare).

Farmer's Carry (use handles) - 4 sets of 75’ with 45s, 35s, and 5s on each side, each handle.

Day 8

Back Squats (lighter) - 4 sets of 10 (warm up with the bar x 10, 135x6, 185x4, 225x3, 255x2, and 270x1; your working sets will all be with 280). 

Front Squats - 4 sets of 10 (warm up with 135x6, and 185x3; your working sets will all be with 190). 

Rack pulls (from just above knees; lighter) - 4 sets of 10 (warm up with 135x6, 185x4, 225x3, and 275x2; your working sets will all be with 290). 

Lat pulldown - 4 sets of 10-12 (try about 105-110 lbs.).

Barbell Bicep Curls - 4 sets of 10-12 (use ~75 lbs. for these).

Day 9

Back squat (heavier) - warm up (bar x 10, 135x6, 185x4, 225x4, 255x3, 275x2, and 315x1) to 315x10, then do 4 back down sets of 10 reps with 285. 

Bench press (lighter) - 5 sets of 10 reps (warm up with the bar x 10, 135x8, 185x4, and 205x3; your working sets will all be with 220). 

Standing Overhead Press - 4 sets of 10 (warm up with the bar x 5 and 85x3; your working sets will all be with 95).

Side planks - 4 sets of a 40 second hold on each side.

Day 10

Deadlift - warm up (135x5, 225x5, 275x3, 295x3, and 315x2) to 350x10, then do 4 back down sets of 10 reps with 310. 

Pendlay Rows - 4 sets of 10 (warm up with 135x5; your working sets will all be with 165).

Pull ups - 4 sets of 8-10.

45 Degree Back Hyperextensions - 4 sets of 15 with a 25 lb. DB.

Day 11

Bench press (heavier) - warm up (bar x 10, 135x8, 185x4, 205x3, and 225x2) to 240x10, then do 4 back down sets of 10 with 220.

Dips (add weight if possible) - 4 sets of 8-10.

Horizontal Cable Rows - 4 sets of 10-12 (try ~110 lbs.).

Close grip bench press - 4 sets of 10 with 185 (focus on speed and form -- no elbow flare).

Farmer's Carry (use handles) - 4 sets of 75’ with two 45s on each side, each handle.

Day 12

Back Squats (lighter) - 5 sets of 10 (warm up with the bar x 10, 135x6, 185x4, 225x3, 255x2, and 270x1; your working sets will all be with 285). 

Front Squats - 4 sets of 10 (warm up with 135x6, and 185x3; your working sets will all be with 200).

Rack pulls (from just above knees; lighter) - 4 sets of 10 (warm up with 135x6, 185x4, 225x3, and 275x2; your working sets will all be with 300).

Lat pulldown - 4 sets of 10-12 (try about 110-115 lbs.).

Barbell Bicep Curls - 4 sets of 10-12 (use ~75-80 lbs. for these).

Day 13

Back squat (heavier) - warm up (bar x 10, 135x6, 185x4, 225x4, 255x3, and 275x2) to 2 sets of 5 reps with 285. 

Bench press (lighter) - 2 sets of 5 reps (warm up with the bar x 10, 135x8, 185x3, and 205x2; your working sets will all be with 205). 

Standing Overhead Press - 2 sets of 5 (warm up with the bar x 5 and 85x3; your working sets will all be with 85).

Side planks - 2 sets of a 30 second hold on each side.

Day 14

Deadlift - warm up (135x5, 225x5, 275x3, 295x2, and 315x1) to 2 sets of 5 reps with 315.

Pendlay Rows - 2 sets of 8 (warm up with 115x5; your working sets will all be with 135).

Pull ups - 2 sets of 6-8.

45 Degree Back Hyperextensions - 2 sets of 15 with bodyweight.

Day 15

Bench press (heavier) - warm up (bar x 10, 135x8, 185x4, and 205x3) to 2 sets of 5 with 215.

Dips - 2 sets of 6-8.

Horizontal Cable Rows - 2 sets of 8-10 (try ~95 lbs.)

Close grip bench press - 2 sets of 8 with 165 (focus on speed and form -- no elbow flare).

Farmer's Carry (use handles) - 2 sets of 75’ with 45s and 25s on each side, each handle.

Day 16

Back Squats (lighter) - 2 sets of 5 (warm up with the bar x 10, 135x6, 185x4, 225x3, and 255x2; your working sets will all be with 255). 

Front Squats - 2 sets of 5 (warm up with 135x6, and 180x3; your working sets will all be with 180). 

Rack Pulls (from just above knees; lighter) - 2 sets of 5 (warm up with 135x6, 185x4, 225x3, and 275x2; your working sets will all be with 275). 

Lat pulldown - 2 sets of 8-10 (try about 100 lbs.).

Barbell Bicep Curls - 2 sets of 8-10 (use ~75 lbs. for these).

Undisputedly Strong throwdown 4 report

WOD 1
 was 2 rounds ofof yolk carry of 410lbs, 3 175lb sandbag yolk, then 7 burpees over a 3 foot fence. I came in dead last. And I wasn't even close to the 2nd to last. It was humiliating. 45 reps.

WOD 2
60 seconds of max axle deadlifts of 375lb, 60 second restthen 60 second max reps of shoulder to overhead. I got 14 reps on DL and 8 for overhead press. 22 total reps.

Wod 3
2 rounds
5 Tire flips
100 ft Sled push @ 300
15 Axel bar cleans 175
20 calorie row
On this WOD I did a lot better than I thought I would. I finished 1 entire round and the 2nd round of tire flips.

Floater WOD was a max bench press. I benched 320 and took 2nd place.

Yesterday's WOD

The workout below is a prime example of why I hate CrossFit. I can't do rope climbs, handstand push-ups, muscle ups, handstand walking, pistols, double understand, etc. And most workouts have at least on of these. Its frustratedd and degrading. I don't enjoy training in a sport I'll never be competitive at. But there's something about it that helps me stay in the diet wagon. It's like some kind of black magic CrossFit voodoo. 

AMRAP 20 Minutes
20 Slam Ball
1 Legless Rope Climbs
3 Squat Cleans 185/135lbs
5 Handstand Push-Ups

CrossFit revelations

I've posted this a bunch, but I don't enjoy doing CrossFit. I love the community, the coaches, the facilities, and I especially love the results. But after 8 months of doing CrossFit I've realized the results may not be worth it for me. I've come close to quitting a bunch of times. But my continued weight loss has kept me coming back. I think I'll try two more weeks of CrossFit. If I haven't found new and renued love or interest then I'm going to quit and train powerlifting and short distance track. I enjoy those sports. And they're cheaper to train at and be coached in. Why spend $150 a month to do something I don't enjoy when there's other sports out there that are almost as effective at weight loss and getting fit, that are more fun for me, and significantly cheaper?

The NASA Summer Nationals powerlifting report

I competed in a poweifting meet this last Saturday. It was the Nasa Summer Nationals. I hit lifetime best lifts for all three. If I hit the same total in the USPA state championships on December 1st I'll qualify for my first ever national championships. Not bad after only 9 months of powerlifting. I know, I know, my bench sucks. But it's getting better.
451lb squat
314lb bench
501lb deadlift
1266lb total

2018 LWC New Mexico weightlifting state championships report

Saturday June 30th 2018 I lost my first ever weightlifting state championships (state games) to Carlos Wendler (picture below). He had a 104/127/231. I made a 96/126/222. My lifetime best snatch was a 100. I went for a 101 and missed it. But it was close so that made me feel better. I made a lifetime best 126 clean and jerk Even if I made lifetime best at both lifts he'd still have beaten me by 4k. So the better man definitely won. I set a new state record in the clean and jerk. But he followed me and nailed a 127k, so he'll go down in the record books as the record holder.

 It was a great day that was equally heart breaking. My entire year's goal of being the first man in New Mexico to win all 4 state championships, NASA, USPA, USAPL, and weightlifting is over. So I'm ready to get back to training. Huge shout out to my current and former coaches Vernon Smith-Moore, Joaquin Chavez, and nutrition coach Barry Schroeder. I've lost 80lbs, become stronger, faster, more athletic, healthier, happier, and sexier 😅. You guys are more than just coaches. Your a friend, life mentor, and selfless. I couldn't have gotten to where I'm at without you guys. But the adventure isn't over yet. Next year I'll come back better and sexier than ever. #oldmanstrength

The 2018 New Mexico LWC state championships

Yesterday I lost my first ever weightlifting state championships (state games) to Carlos Wendler (picture below). He had a 104/126/230. I made a 96/126/222. My lifetime best snatch was a 100. I went for a 101 and missed it. But it was close so that made me feel better. I made a lifetime best 126 clean and jerk Even if I made lifetime best at both lifts he'd still have beaten me by 3k. So the better man definitely won. I set a new state record in the clean and jerk. But since he tied my record he gets his name in the books because he weighs less.  It was a great day that was equally heart breaking. My entire year's goal of being the first man in New Mexico to win all 4 state championships, NASA, USPA, USAPL, and weightlifting is over. So I'm ready to get back to training. Huge shout out to my current and former coaches Vernon Smith-Moore, Joaquin Chavez, and #nutrition coach Barry Schroeder. I've lost 80lbs, become stronger, faster, more athletic, healthier, happier, and sexier 😅. You guys are more than just coaches. Your a friend, life mentor, and selfless. I couldn't have gotten to where I'm at without you guys. But the adventure isn't over yet. Next year I'll come back better and sexier than ever. #oldmanstrength

The New Mexico games track and field meet

I haven't been paying much recently. I'll give you a quick update. I ran in my first track and field meet since 1989 a few weeks ago. I place 3rd in the 40-44AG. But I also pulled my right adductor during the race. I thurouthorenjoyed the experience. I'm contemplating starting track training.

I have a NASA powerlifting meet on July 14th. Training has been going well so I think the meet will go well.

No quarter given OR of love and war

I want to relax. I want to be open and honest. I want to have a safe haven where struggle has no place, where we gain strength and rest instead of having it pulled from me. I want to stop being on guard all the time, and have a chance to simply be with someone who can understand our basic humanity without begrudging it. To stop fighting, and stop playing the game, just for a while.

I want to, so badly.

If I do, I soon will no longer able to.

I consider this perspective, I begin to see a stark paradox; mens' want for a relief or a respite from that performance burden tends to be their undoing.

This is the same mistake men making their blue pill, beta conditioning. They believe that if they meet the right girl, if they align correctly with that special ONE, then they too can give up and not worry about their performance- or relax and only make the base effort necessary to keep my ONE happy. The beta buys the advertising that his blue pill conditioning has presented to him for a lifetime. Find the right girl who accepts you, independent of your performance, and you can let down your guard, be vulnerable, forget any notion of red pill truth because you're girl is a special specimen who places known conditions on her love, empathy, intimate acceptance or genuine desire love you. This is very seductive and inuring for Beta who's been condition to believe there can realistically be a respite from his burden.

Looking back on it, I was so grateful to my wife, who is easily the most sexually available girl I've ever been with, that I would have taken a bullet for her. I didn't want anybody else. I didn't even think about other girls- first time that ever happened to me in a relationship. I can remember thinking that even if she gained weight, lost her looks, and got old, I'd still want her. I would have "loved" her forever. I was good and ready to cash in my chips, exit the sexual Marketplace, and retire. I would have arranged my whole life around making her happy and would have felt lucky to have had that privilege.

 At the time, all of that felt noble and brave, but looking back on it now, it just seems pathetic and pathological; the result of my neediness. But the thing is, what if she had reciprocated it? Wouldn't it have been a relationship worth having? Had she reciprocated it- if any woman was capable of reciprocating that- it wouldn't have been Disney movie bulshit, but the real thing. We're supposed to think such a thing is possible and that's what keeps us playing along. The red pill is really about recognizing it's impossibility, I think. There is no possible equity. To be sure, a woman can be loyal and dedicated to you, in theory, but theythey  give that loyalty to the guy who needs it least. It's like a cruel, cosmic joke.

Such as it is, that girl lied to me, drained every penny and every ounce of energy I had the moment I showed weakness and needed her the most. Big surprise, right? With a red pill awareness now I can see how predictable that result was, but at the time I was blindsided by it. I never saw it coming. I couldn't understand how she could do such a thing when I'd vested so much in her, when I was so willing to give her all the things I've always wanted most. I assumed she wanted the same things- men and women are the same, right? That's what the egalitarians tell us. I couldn't understand how those things could be so valueless to her that she would just throw it all away like that. She didn't value them at all.

The New Mexico track and field meet

Last year I was training to become a sprinter in track and field. After months of training I was only able to get my 100m time to 20 seconds. Not good. I stopped training sprinting and changed to CrossFit. I started training track again a few weeks ago. My first week I pulled an adductor. Then I had a couple uneventful weeks of training in the %70 of max effort range. Yesterday I decided to try an all out sprint. I ran a 15.9 second 100m. And I didn't injure anything this time! That motivated me to register for the New Mexico games track and field meet that will be held this weekend. That only gives me 5 days of training to prepare. And 7 days after that is the NMLWC weightlifting state championships. I'm a little worried the race will negatively effect my weightlifting meet. Last year I registered for the NM games track and field meet. But the day of the race I chickened out and didn't race. That was one of the only times I've ever chickened out from a competition of any kind. This year is my chance to redeem myself.

Powerlifting 2019 national championships

Last year I looked up the powerlifting national championship meets and qualifying classes a hundred times. Then I'd loose the paper and have to look it up again. I'm posting it here so that I have an easy place to find it at.

USAPL national open powerlifting May 9, 2019 in Lafayette Louisiana. As a 40-44 year old lifter I don't need to meet a minimum total. I just need a total at any USAPL meet.

USPA non-tested Nationals June 27-30 in Columbus Ohio. Need a masters total. Class 2 needed. At 275lb weight class that's 1580lb total. At the 242lb weight class that's a 1536 total.

USPA tested Nation July 11-14, 2019 in Las Vegas Nevada. Need a class 2 total. At 275 it's 1249. At 242 it's a 1208lb total.

USPA referee certification and reverse dieting

I recieved word today that I passed the USPA referee/judge written exam. The next step is for me to take the practical test. I'm going to ask the meet director of the USPA meet, The Showdown powerlifting meet in Lubbock Texas if I could take the practical test there. I have loved ones who live in Lubbock. My family and I can stay with them while we're there.

I'm so hungry all the time. I'm not sure if it's because my body is trying to build muscle from the powerlifting training or if my body is still freaking out from having dieted for 8 months continuously. I started a reverse diet last week. Not only will the gradual increase of calories help with the hunger, but it'll also help with building some serious strength. Perfect timing. I have two more important meets this year. July 1st is the LWC New Mexico state championships and December 1st is the USPA New Mexico powerlifting state championships. I plan on dieting again starting on December 2nd. The day after the USPA state championships. Until the state championships I'lI be focusing on getting as strong as pissposs. And that'll take extra calories.

Beast or broken?

The last 8 months I've really dedicated myself to nutrition and training. Anytime I've found a weakness I've trained that weakness until I became good at it. A couple weeks ago I was doing 40 meter dashes. I was fast, but I ended up being sore for almost a week. I realized I found a weakness. This morning I attempted more 40 meter sprints. On the 2nd sprint i pulled an abductor muscle. I've made great progress the last year. But I'm also a lot more breakable now that I'm in my 40's. I figure if I continue to push myself as hard as I have been I'll be a beast, or very broken.

First week of reverse dieting

I started a reverse diet on Tuesday. Avatar Nutrition gave me an immediate increase of calories from 2,400 to 2,917 the first day. I thought it would take awhile for my body to start feeling the results of the calorie increase. But almost immediately I felt better. The second day I was lifting more reps with the same weight. By the fourth day I was lifting more reps with significantly more weight. I have never been able to do 4 sets of 10 dips before. Friday i was able to do it for the first time. And I felt like I could have done more. Last Saturday I was only able to front squat 215lbs one set of 6, then had to drop to 195 for my last three sets of 6. Today I was able to do four sets of 6 reps on front squats with 225lbs. And again, I felt like I could have done more. I'm really glad I decided to reverse diet. My body had had enough of being at a calorie deficit. 8 months of dieting and 80lbs of weight loss was as much as I could handle. I'll start dieting again December 1st. But until then I'm going to concentrate on healing my metabolism and getting stronger.

I've decided I'm going to reverse diet for three months. Then maintain for three months.

Reverse dieting and maintenance

I've been struggling to continue to keep my calories in the diet range.  A couple days ago I changed my goal on Avatar nutrition to a reverse diet. I'll reverse diet for three months, then maintain for three months. After that my metabolism should have recovered and I'll be able to start dieting again to get down to my dream weight.

Ready to maintain

I've been dieting non-stop for just shy of 9 months. I'm getting burned out. I'm ready to eat normal. I think I'm going to change my diet goals. Instead of getting down to 230, I'm going to just get down to 240. I'm at 262 right now. Losing 22lbs is manageable. With how burned out I am 22lbs won't be easy. But it's manageable. First I'll get to 240, reverse diet, then maintain for awhile. At least that's my plan for now. I tend to leap before I look. l change goals a lot. I'm impulsive. And annoying. I even annoy myself. So that's my plan for now. But knowing me it'll probably change.

Fixing powerlifting imbalances with a good coach

My powerlifting coach is awesome. I know I post about how wonderful he is all the time. Sorry if I'm beating a dead horse here. But he is by far and away the best coach ive had in any sport I've ever competed in. Coach Vernon told me he's programming a lot more back and lat work on my next block of training. He said my bench and chest is getting stronger quicker than my back is. He's wanting to make sure my body stays balanced and I don't end up having injury problems later. I never would have realized there was an imbalance going on the way he did. I can't count the times he's seen something that's made him adjuste my programming. I'm lucky to have him coaching me. I feel the sky's the limit with him in my corner.

More diet knowledge

I've figured out another way to decrease my flexible dieting calories. I drink a lot of coffee throughout the work day. I drink it when I get sleepy or bored. I put heavy cream in my coffee. Heavy cream has a lot of calories. I've started chewing sugar free gum when I get bored instead of drinking more coffee. That's decreased my calorie intake a lot. It helped me loose a bit more weight this week than I have been recently. I weighed in at 262.2lbs this morning. I've lost 84lbs, 32 more to go until I hit my goal. It's finally feeling like there's a light at the end of the tunnel. I've been dieting for 8 months. I'm looking forward to hitting my goal so I can increase my calories to a maintenance level. That'd be a about 1200-1300 calories a day more.

My son and weightlifiting

Before the NM youth and master's weightlifting meet my former coach Joaquin Chaves of High Dessert weightlifting club called me up and asked if I needed him to warm me up, count attempts, and keep track of competition in my weight class and age group. He hasn't trained me as one of his athletes in over two years. There was no reason for him to do that for me. I was so touched.

On a side note my wife has been stressed out driving my son, Cody James to and from weightlifting practice with Coach Vernon Smith on Tuesdays. And now my daughter's volleyball practice is also on Tuesdays and Thursdays. It has gotten to much for her to handle. My wife asked me to pull Cody James out of weightlifting. Instead I called up Joaquin Chaves and asked him if he could take my son at High Dessert Athletic club. Coach Joaquin said yes. I'll be taking him to Joaquin Chaves on Monday's and Wednesday's. My mother-in-law will be taking him on Fridays. On one hand I'm excited that my son will be training three days a week with such an amazing man to guide my son in both weightlifting and life. But in the other hand this kinda sucks because his former coach, Vernon Smith was great with my son. I love Vernon. I think so much of him. Vernon been my powerlifting coach since I started powerlifting in October.

 My son starts HDAC on May 28th.

Learning diet and nutrition for a lifetime

I used to be a complete train wreck in regards to eating. And my shitty eating hurt my weight, my health, my fitness, my confidence, and my relationships. My entire life really. I've tried all sorts of things to improve my diet and get to a healthy body weight. Some things worked, some things didn't. As I tried new things I learned. Sometimes I didn't even realize I had learned something. I just thought I had failed. I think I've finally figured out what works and is sustainable for me and my personality. I have a calorie and protein goal for the day, and the week.  i count my calories and my protein daily. And I make sure to hit with in %10 of my goal calorie and goal protein. The newest lesson I learned was to start counting my calories and protein on Saturday. I usually do perfectly on my nutrition during the week. I usually make mistakes on the weekend. And now if I screw my calories up on a weekend I can adjust my calories the rest of the week to still hit the goal for the week.

Life is an adventure. And I'm trying to stay flexible, learn new things, and continue to grow.

I don't like CrossFit, but....

I'm a big guy. 265lbs, down from 346. I do relatively well at weightlifiting and powerlifting meets. One would think I'd also do well at CrossFit. They have all the lifts in CrossFit that I do in the strength sports. But I suck at CrossFit. This morning we did a WOD of powercleans, front squats, and push press. Those are all movements I can do a lot of weight with one time. But when I have to do that many reps I fall apart. I had to do the workout with only 135lbs instead of the perscribed 185. Someone I occasionally work out with looked over at me and said, "huh, that's surprising." That pissed me off. Yes, I suck at CrossFit and I have no endurance, or muscular endurance. But danm it I'm still in here putting in the work and trying hard. I can't say I like CrossFit. But I know it's good for me and I love the comunity- except for this morning. But you know what? Fuck 'em. That's all I gotta say. I'm the best me I can be. And I'm not quitting. Because I want to be an even better me. And I will be. I know crossfit works. It's helped me drastically change my physique, lifestyle, and health. I don't enjoy training crossfit, but I love the sport. I'd like to eventually get a CrossFit coaching cert so I could help others make the lifestyle changes I have.

Today's wod at 185lbs.
9 powercleans
9 front squats
9 push press
27 ab mat sit-ups
6 powercleans
6 front squats
6 push press
18 ab mat sit ups
3 powercleans
3 front squats
3 push press
9 ab Matt sit ups

The 2018 youth and master's championships report

On Saturday I competed in the Youth and Master's New Mexico state championships. I set a meet best and state record snatch of 100k. I've been chasing 100k since 2013. 5 flipping years! I finally got that son-of-a-gun. Such a wonderful day.

My son set state records in the snatchs clean and jerkj and total. He also qualified for the American Open Series and the youth national championships! After less than a year of training he has qualified for as many national championships as I have in a half decade of training and competing☺ At only ten years of age he's better than me. And I couldn't be happier about it.

 And pictured below are two of my Bear Canyon CrossFit team mates who spent the whole day warming me up and coaching me. I couldn't be more greatfull.

First extra credit workout

On Tuesday I did both the strength session and the MetCon (metabolic conditioning, or cardio). I felt great. Fast and efficient. Having lost 80lbs is unbelievably important in CrossFit. Being light for CrossFit is, in my opinion, as important as being in shape. Usually after a hard CrossFit workout I'm so tired I'm worthless for a few hours. But this time I felt pretty good still. So for the first time ever I also completed the extra credit workout after the two normal workouts. AND, I was able to do it RX. That was only the 2nd CrossFit workout I've ever do e RX'd. It was:
3 rounds of
10 DB snatches left hand with 50lbs
10 DB snatches right hand with 50lbs
20 box jump overs

It took me 7:36. Not a great time. But just a few months ago I had to do step ups. Now I can actually jump up on to the box.

Hydrostatic body fat test for Powerlifting at UNM

I got my body fat tested today at the UNM Exercise physiology department. There was great news and bad news. I'm much leaner than I thought I was. I'm at 23.6% body fat. I used to have over 160lbs of fat. Now I only have 56.5lbs of fat. The most lean mass I'd ever had was 187lbs. I'm over 200lbs of lean mass now. And I've only been powerlifting and doing CrossFit for 7 months. So things will only get better from here. The bad news is I look like a still have a much bigger belly than I should for being 23% body fat. It's loose skin. It'll probably never go away. I'll always look like I have a pot belly. That's the consequence of getting to be obese like I did. All I can do is be the best me I can be. And if that means walking around healthy and lean, but still have what looks like a gut. Then I'll walk arounf like the stringess, most confident dude with a gut ever.

May 2018: 265.1lbs @ 23% body fat. 202.5lbs lean mass. 62.5lbs fat.

March 2015: 288.4 pounds @ 35.2% body fat. 187 pounds lean mass. 101.5 pounds fat.

Nov 2013: 274.7 pounds @ 34.52% body fat. 179.9 pounds lean mass.  95.8 pounds fat.

April 2013: 229.7 pounds @ 23.12% body fat.  176.6 pounds lean mass. 53.1 pounds fat.

Feb 12 2013: 241.1 pounds @ 28.14% body fat. 173.3 pounds lean mass. 67.8 pounds fat.

Oct 2011: 181 pounds @ 6.86% body fat. 169.3 pounds lean mass. 12.5 pounds fat.

June 2011: 188.4 pounds @ 10.9%. 169.4 pounds lean mass. 19 pounds fat.

Nov 2010: 222.2 pounds at 19.01% body fat. 180 pounds lean mass. 42.2 pounds fat.

July 2010: 189 pounds at 9.81% body fat. 170.6 pounds lean mass. 18.5 pounds fat.

First hydrostatic body fat test in years

I decided I'm going to get my hydrostatic body fat tested at the UNM Exercise Physiology Department. My appointment is for tomorrow morning. Here are some of my previous results: 

March 2015: 288.4 pounds @ 35.2% body fat. 187 pounds lean mass. 101.5 pounds fat.

Nov 2013: 274.7 pounds @ 34.52% body fat. 179.9 pounds lean mass.  95.8 pounds fat.

April 2013: 229.7 pounds @ 23.12% body fat.  176.6 pounds lean mass. 53.1 pounds fat.

Feb 12 2013: 241.1 pounds @ 28.14% body fat. 173.3 pounds lean mass. 67.8 pounds fat.

Oct 2011: 181 pounds @ 6.86% body fat. 169.3 pounds lean mass. 12.5 pounds fat.

June 2011: 188.4 pounds @ 10.9%. 169.4 pounds lean mass. 19 pounds fat.

Nov 2010: 222.2 pounds at 19.01% body fat. 180 pounds lean mass. 42.2 pounds fat.

July 2010: 189 pounds at 9.81% body fat. 170.6 pounds lean mass. 18.5 pounds fat.

CrossFit triathlon, diet, and my Box

Last year I watched my buddy compete in the 4th annual Hellbox CrossFit triathlon. At the time I weighed in at 346lbs. I wanted to do that triathlon so bad. That's what got me back into CrossFit and eating right. I'm down to 265lbs. I've lost 81lbs preparing for that race so far. If I continue to lose the same rate as I have been I'll be down to approximately 230lbs by then. I will have lost 116lbs. They've renamed the race Enchant-Fit CrossFit triathlon.

This week my Powerlifting coach Vernon Smith is having me do a recovery week. Light weights and low volume. He also requested I don't do any crossfit workouts. All week I've been close to eating bad food and a lot of it. The only thing I've ever found that helps me stay on the diet wagon is crossfit. I'm not exactly sure why. But going to CrossFit keeps me motivated and on track diet wise. My calves were cramping horribly on all three of the runs. My body was freaking the heck out. Which is exactly why coach told to take some time off to recover. But ever since doing that workout i haven't been tempted to binge eat. I think doing that CF workout was the right thing. Perhaps not the best thing for my recovery. But it helped control my desire to over eat.

CrossFit. I don't always like it. I'm not built for it. But it's damn good for me. And I really love the people in my box.

On a side note. I failed the USPA referee test I took last week.

2018 NASA New Mexico Powerlifting state championships report

Body weight 265lbs
275lb weight class

Power clean 52.5k

Strict curls 57.5k (PR & state record)

Squat 435lbs (state record)

Bench 303 (PR & state record)

Deadlift 479 (tied PR & state record)
Total 1216 (state record)

My son
Weighed in at 64.2lbs
Lifted in 65lb weight class
Clean 55lbs (PR & state record)
Squat 60.3lbs (PR & state record)
Bench press 50lbs (PR & state record)
Deadlift 132.2lbs (PR & state record)

This weekend my son and I competed in the 2018 NASA New Mexico Powerlifting state championships.

I'm not going to go into a lot of details about the day. Most of this post will be about my sonss and my coacg. I knew two things was going to happen.
1) since I'd lost 80lbs in the last 7 months I knew I wouldn't be lifting anything amazing.
2) I knew my son was going to do some amazing lifting

My best squat was 435lbs. It was my 2nd best squat in a meet.

My best bench press of the day was a personal best and state record of 303lbs. I was pleasantly surprised by that lift.

My best deadlift was 479lbs. That tied my 2nd best lift.

My total was 1216lbs. My 2nd best total of all time.

Overall I did about the same as I used to do. But I used to weigh 346lbs. Now I'm only 265lbs. For me to have kept up my strength while losing this much is a near miracle. And truth be known, it's not something I'm doing. All the accolades should go to my Powerlifting coach Vernon Smith-More.  He's the most amazing coach I've ever had any sport. Most coaches know how to do one or two different approaches to training their athletes. If those don't work they'll blame the athletes diet, not sleeping enough, or they'll tell the athlete, "just stick with it. You're going through a plateau." Or "it's because your losing weight." But coach Vernon never stops trying new things to make sure I'm getting gains. He doesn't accept me not gaining strength just because I'm dieting. He's tried a lower volume, higher intensity program. A higher intensity, lower volume plan. High both, and low both. As he's trying these things he's watching my results and learning about how my body is responding and applying that knowledge to my next program. He's doing the same for my son. My son's total last year at this same meet was a 110lb total. In one year he's gone up to a 242lb total. His deadlift was 22lbs higher than his total was last year. Coach Vernon is the amazing. Not only is he a great coach, but he's a wonderful and compassionate human being too. As long as Vernon is my sons and my coach our future in powerlifting is going to be great. 

Powerlifting referee

I'm really enjoying Powerlifting. I'm enjoying competing in the sport and I really love the people. I decided I wanted to get more involved. I contacted the NASA powerlifting federation a couple of times and asked if they'd like me to volunteer in any capacity. I never heard back. Eventually I decided to contact a different orginization. I contacted USPA and asked if I could help in any way or perhaps even become a referee/judge. In less than 10 minutes I received a response. They were beyond greatfull for any help I'd be willing to offer. And a few minutes later I recieved thier study guide and USPA state referee test. Apparently they are as excited about finding people who want to give back to the sport as I am to do it.

The test was much harder than I thought it would be. Very intensive. I finished it today and I'll mail it when I get off of work. I should know within a few days if I passed or not. If I did indeed pass then I could potentially be judging as soon as may 5th here in Albuquerque New Mexico.

Upcoming powerlifting meet Gallup New Mexico

This weekend is the NASA (Natural Athlete Strength Association) powerlifting New Mexico state championships. Both my son and I will be competing. He'll be competing in the power press and powerlifting division. I'll be competing in four divisions
Power Sports Police division
Retro police
Power press police
Retro masters 1

I'm very excited about this meet. I'll be attempting to break a 300lb bench and 500lb deadlift for the first time in a meet. I'll also be attempting a 433lb squat. Not a great squat, I know. I've lost some strength in my squating in the last 8 months because I've dropped 80lbs of body weight. Which brings up the other reason I'm really excited about this meet. I'm weighing in at 265lbs right now. I'll be lifting in the 275lb weight class. I usually weigh in at 340-350lbs and lift as a super heavyweight. And even though I've lost 80 pounds I'll still be attempting meet PR's at the bench, deadlift, and total!!!!

My son will be attempting a greater than body weight squat and a double bodyweight deadlift. Here's only 10 years old.

The trip will be him, my best friend, my God-daughter, and I. Should be a blast. IllI keep you updated.

My wife, the future CrossFit stud

It was hell getting my wife into CrossFit. She refused for awhile. Then after she agreed she dragged her feet. Her first drive to Bear Canyon CrossFit she cried the entire way there. It was an was an anxiety thing. I don't exactly understand, but I sympathize. After her first day of CrossFit she was so sore she needed help getting out of sitting and laying positions. Even though she was so sore she couldn't move she still went four times. For times in one week is impressive even for someone in great shape. One thing I learned when she and I did CrossFit together in 2013 is that she's a phenomenal athlete. She builds speed, strength, and endurance much much quicker than most. In less than a month of beginning Crossfit in 2013 she was faster than me in every workout. She also has the biggest pain tolerance I've seen. Which is helpful in Crossfit. Because CrossFit hurts. Bad. She once dropped a 45 pound plate on her big toe, crushing the bone to mush. Literally. She still finished the wod. Another time she was struggling with plantar fasciitis so bad that the plantar fascia tore in half during warm ups. And she still finished the workout after rupturing the muscle. Shes's a stud. A natural athlete. I always assumed our kids inherited thier athleticism from me. It wasn't until I saw my wife work out and make gains so quickly that i realized she's the best athlete in the family. My wife is going to be a force to be reckoned with once she has some time in the sport.

CrossFit costs or CrossFit for couples

I decided earlier this week I was going to cancel my Crossfit membership to save money so I could continue to be home with the kids more. After a few days I fell off the diet wagon. So then I went back to crossfit and Wala, I was motivated to eat healthy and count macros again. I think I've come to the realization that I need to continue training at Bear Canyon CrossFit. There's something about that place that makes me motivated to eat right and eat the right amounts. It seems to effect more than just what kind of workout I'm doing. It totally changes my lifestyle. After I told my wife how my diet changes for the worse everytime I stop going to CrossFit she actually decided to try it too. Her first CrossFit workout will be tomorrow. I'll blog about her workout soon. But she and I came up with an idea on how to pay for it. Our membership will be $220 a month. Right now she and I put money into a 401k retirement plan. We'll just deduct $220 a month from how much we're investing in our 401k. The way I look at it is there's more than one way to invest in our future. And one of those ways is investing in our health. What's the point in saving for retirement if we'll be to sick or dead to enjoy it? So, tomorrow she and I start training CrossFit together. I'm really excited. I think this will be great for both our bodies and our relationship. It'll be something we can bond doing together.

CrossFit costs

I really love doing CrossFit. I love the results it gives me. And I love how little time I need to train doing CrossFit to get great results. Unfortunately it's really expensive. I've been attempting to work less hours so I can spend more time with my kids. My hopes are working. My kids and I are closer now than ever. The bad news is working only 35 hours a week is hitting us hard financially. My wife and I are going to see if we can cut some things out of our life to make ends meet. But if those don't work then I'm going to have to give up CrossFit.

The bigger the base, the taller the peak

Ive been really dedicated to powerlifting training. I haven't missed a workout in months. I even trained this weekend in Durango Colorado when my family and I went out of town for the weekend. But I haven't been gaining strength recently. It's because I've been at a calories defacit for the last 6 months. I'm trying to lose weight and get into a lower weight class. Most coaches would just lay blame on the calorie defacit and continue sending the same training plan. Not my coach. He's trying different things just about every training plan. Trying to see what he can do to get my strength up while also losing fat. This training block he's decreasing intensity and increasing volume. I had a triathlon coach back in the day who tried this with me and we got great results. I gained a tremendous amount of speed and endurance. I realize triathlon training and Powerlifting are just about as different as humanly possible. But it's important to build a base regardless of the sport. There's an old saying, "the bigger the base, the taller the peak.". I think that's precisely what my coach is attempting to do. Build a bigger base. As usual, I really love my powerlifting coach. Here's awesome.