Workout with John
Maxes:
Squats: 132 lbs.
Bench press: 71 lbs.
Deadlifts: 132 lbs.
John brought over a medium weight belt and he and Jeremy had a delightful time strapping me into it. The trick is to turn the opposite way the belt is being pulled. I am amazed at how secure I feel while squatting and deadlifting with the belt. It is a great thing.
We started with a couple of squats, then he showed me how to bench press. You need to tuck your shoulders under you, press your chest forward and stable yourself with your toes only on the floor almost just under your butt. Back should be very arched but butt is on the bench. When you accept the weights, drive your heels downward and keep everything tight.
For competition, you have to rest the bar on your chest until the judge says, “Press.” Don’t anticipate. Wait for the judge. Drive upward as you hear the command.
I was successful with 71 lbs, a personal best. When we tried with 76 lbs., I failed the first time because I got “out of the groove,” meaning I let the bar tilt backward out of the upward path it should take. John said I could try one more time — to give me practice with the pressure you feel during a meet — but I forgot to wait for him to say press. I couldn’t have another chance. I was really bummed and am itching to try again next week.
For deadlifts, I have surprisingly good form. Keep head up and drive up with your heels. My weakness if the beginning, as I pull upward before reaching my knees. I’m stronger at the top.
I can’t wait to get my weight belt.