12.23.2013

• Snatch (blocks)
• 2x3 @ 75% (56kg)
• 2x2 @ 80% (60kg)
• 3x1 @ 85% (64kg)
• First time ever snatching from blocks.  Did one set at 56kg and then Istvan had me go back down to 45kg for 2x4.  My technique improved after two sets so I moved up to 50kg and did 3x4.  Working from the blocks is eye opening.  I've known that most of my technique issues are with the second pull...not reaching full extension, bumping the bar instead of brushing...but these drills really show it.  It's hard not to feel defeated working at a fraction of capacity and Istvan is very good at reassuring me that it will come.  And I am patient and trusting.  
• Push Jerk
• 3x3 @ 80% (67kg)
• 3x2 @ 85% (71kg)
• Did 72kg instead of 71.  Don't know my true push jerk max, so I just based it off of 84kg.
• Back Squat
• 4.3.3 @ 80% (93kg)
• 3.2.3 @ 85% (98kg)
• Finally starting to feel some strength returning and in the new, controlled and correct positions, so this is very encouraging.  I don't know if my weakened state is a matter of being in new positions, the recent weight loss or a combination of the two...but it feels good to be moving up.  At 85%, I ended up only doing 2 sets (one of 2, one of 3).  
• Weighted Ring Dips
• 5x2 with 15lbs
• all unbroken--VERY happy about this as this has been a huge weakness for me
• Butterfly Pull ups
• 1 set of 10
• I cannot even tell you how awesome these feel.  Losing 18#'s makes a HUGE difference.  Even though I am no longer competing in CF, I want to continue to hit some of these higher skills and strict  upper body strength to simply maintain what I have developed thus far.