There’s no question… the dieting is taking a toll.

“Week 1”

• 5 reps – Bench Press (working max: 235#)
  • 2x5x45 (warmup)
  • 1x5x95
  • 1x5x120
  • 1x3x145
  • 1x5x155 (work)
  • 1x5x180
  • 1x8x200
• Asst. #1 – Bench Press
  • 5 x 10/10/10/8/6 x 135
• Asst. #2 – 1-Arm Dumbbell Rows
  • 5 x 10 x 70

I got under the bar for my last set of bench press… and I just didn’t want to do it. My brain said “I’m done”. Just true exhaustion, just totally out of gas. But, I know the brain stops before the body as a means of protection and preservation. This is the time to dig a little deeper and give a little more. I did… got 6, I’m OK with that. Plus my rest periods were shorter during assistance work, I superset the presses and rows, and I really strove for great form… slow movement, good lockout, etc.

So it’s all good, but still… I’m pooped.

I’m also happy I still hit 8 reps @ 200. That’s keeping pace. I should be able to hit 225 just fine.

But there’s no question the diet is taking a toll on me, physically and somewhat mentally/emotionally/spiritually. It just wears on you being hungry all the time, not getting the satisfaction, not having the energy you’re used to. Yes, one can learn a lot from the experience… but it’s been a month and gee, it’s tough.

I’m thinking that in a few weeks I might take a weekend and relax a bit. Not an excuse to gorge, but allow myself to eat and enjoy it a bit. Replenish myself both physically and mentally/emotionally. Instead of limiting myself to 6oz of meat, if I want that 12 oz steak I’m just going to eat it. If I want a little popcorn or chips-and-salsa while I watch a movie with the kiddos, then I will (just keep it reasonable). Have a beer. Just allow myself a little break from this. Not too long… I still want to shed, but just something to help take the edge off, y’know?