Thursday's turnpike

I had my first great session in a while today. Harry sent me an email that helped focus my perspective and it really helped today. I prepared far better mentally for the session and left all else behind once I hit the platform. I always do this when I have my best sessions: I simply shut up and perform; I focus on what is in front of me and leave the emotions and other distractions outside.

I need to get used to lifting heavier weights again, so today was a bridge to what will be a heavier session on Saturday. I worked up to 100 kg in the Snatch and really focused on speed and eliminating any thoughts of technique from my mind. Of course this helped my technique. So much discipline is needed to take the mind out of the equation and let the body learn and demonstrate how it can accomplish a task on its own, without interference from the intellect. Here is what I did:

Snatch bar work and then for my first few sets I did my Snatches from 15kg plates, then 10kg plates and then the floor in descending order.

Snatch--1x2@40, 40, 40, 60, 70 1x1@80, 90, 90, 95, 100, 100, 100
I really focused on moving as fast as I can. This meant I was cutting the pull a bit short, but otherwise they felt great and my back was nicely locked also.

Cleans--1x2@60, 60, 80, 100 1x1@110, 117, 122, 122, 122--Again I worked on my speed under the bar. I need to get used to the timing on plus 110 weights again because at the moment I am letting the bar crash down on me a bit which stops my catch being as fluid as I can make it. The weight felt great though.

Back Squat--I did three triples with 70kg to work on my hip mobility and then I did doubles with 110, 130, 140 and three doubles with 150kg. They felt nice and smooth and technically precise. I finished off with a little soft tissue work and a short sauna followed by a cold shower. Have a look at the video below and let me know of any constructive criticism.



As a little bonus I am also putting up the second part of my interview with Tom, so hopefully you will find it thought provoking.