Haven't blogged in a while, so here's a short little update...
This week I took a new series of quarter turn poses to send to Joe, and was happy to receive the news that I am making good progress and no changes need to be made to my diet or cardio routine so far :)
I've reached some new PR's this past week. This will probably be my last 5-3-1 routine until after competition season, as my focus will start to switch from strength building, to leaning out. However, I still plan to push myself with the weights all the way up to stage time! After all, my favorite part about weight lifting is the personal challenge it presents, and the sense of accomplishment after reaching a new personal record.
This week's new PR's:
Squat: 175lbs x 3
Deadlift: 160lbs x 7
Of course, my legs always seem to put on muscle much more easily than my upper body. Ever since I began weight training about 8 years ago, this has been an issue for me. Since figure competition has SO much to do with balance and proportion between upper and lower body, I've been doing anything it takes to further develop my delts and back. I must say that I am very pleased with where I am now as compared to where I was a year ago. Looking at before and after photos helps me come to terms with reality how MUCH my body has changed, and that just because I am not 100% happy with there I am at right now, I can't be too hard on myself as this is not something that happens overnight. It takes time, dedication, and patience. PATIENCE being the keyword.....and I am not a patient person! I am getting better though :o)
I've gotten much better at dealing with cravings for sweets. I'm constantly experimenting with ways to make healthy, yet somewhat flavorful meals that fit into my macro plan. I have to admit, it's kind of fun! I am aware though that from here on out, the diet is only going to get more strict, and I can't say that I am looking forward to it...at all....but....it's all part of the challenge of being a figure competitor and nobody is making me do this but myself!
12 weeks out quarter turns below....my posing needs some serious work, but you get the idea
