Tried to go to new heights; failed this time. | Specific Routines | Forum

Post edited 10:57 pm – June 30, 2010 by gregsfc

I'm sort of between routines, so I'm kind of trying different things each workout.  I don't just go in the gym unprepared.  I have a plan when I go in, but I'm developing a plan for each individual session.

My plan yesterday, after squats and single-leg squats; was to go from dumbell flat bench, to dips, and then to dumbell inclines; doing one set of each, like a cycle, and then repeat.  I planned to do three cycles (3 sets of each; only five reps to save energy at the end).  I've felt stronger than ever in some respects lately, so I wanted to end up with a weight I had never tried for each.  My rest periods would be rather long, especially prior to and during round three, because I would be going for heavy weight. 

I would start with somewhat easy weight on the first round (60/60/40).  So far, so good, but been there, done that.  Then, the second round (70/70/50).  That went okay too, but pushing up to get set for the first rep of flat bench dumbells was tough for my right shoulder .  Then, on round three, I've never unracked an eighty pound dumbell for anything other than shrugs or deadlift, but down I went to the flat bench with both of them.  I got the dumbells and my body to the flat position fine, but those 80s weren't going anywhere but to the floor.  I think I could do this if I had a spotter to help me push my upper arms up to the ready position.  I didn't even give it much of a strain, because I was afraid that was too much of a pinch on my shoulders.

Then onto dips.  Almost success!  I got 4 reps, but I decided my shoulders had enough and did not attempt the incline press.

Anyway, I've now made a good attempt at dips with 80 lbs + 150 body weight.  Never thought I would ever use 80s on a dip device.