First Post!

[TauRine]

Hello all, I've been reading these boards for a few weeks now and I thought it was time for my first post!

Quick bit about me: I'm at the University of Loughborough in the UK (Studying Engineering) and my background is mainly rugby (played a variety of positions for 10years at different levels, and codes). I'm 21, 6'2'', and weigh 247lbs, 25% BF. Just getting into lifting over the last 8months and so far my best lifts are: Bench 242lbs, Deadlift 430lbs, and Squat - not really sure what my 1RM is yet but train with about 265lbs (yes, more weight is needed!).

Been working hard on my form for all three and I think its paying off - setting PR's every couple of weeks or so. Like some of the others on this board I think that I have a "Deadlifter's physique", hence the reasonable performance at DLing and having to bend forward *alot* when squatting (like a GM!).

My (short-term) goals are to nail a 300lb+ Bench, 500lb+ Deadlift, and 400lb+ Squat by Christmas - so there's a fair bit of work to be done between now and then. Not sure yet whether I'm going to starting competing in PowerLifting competitions next year or be playing rugby yet but watch this space...

Got a few questions:

1) When people are talking about keeping their shins vertical when performing Squats, do they mean when using a very wide stance? Because I can't do this to save my life with a stance of a bit more than shoulder distance apart! How can I learn to keep them vertical?

2) Are there any other people from the UK here that would be able to advise me on UK clubs, mailing lists, websites, places to buy equipment, etc... Because I don't think PLing is anywhere near as popular over here!

3) I don't have/can't use speed bands or chains in my gym, are there any other movements that would be a good substitute?

4) Any tips on losing BF? I'd like to get down at least under 20%

By the way, I don't use any wraps, suits or shirts (yet?) and just have a crap Golds Gym belt at the moment I also work in kilograms so I get these values using a little a unit conversion tool!

Thanks for taking the time to read my ramblings, wasn't supposed to last this long - honest!

Regards,

TauRine.

 

[Stuey01]

Hello mate
if your putting up those no.s by X-mas then i'm gonna struggle to even spot you!
Oh well, it's an incentive to get masseev myself. there's that competitive instinct of mine kicking off again....
need to eat more....

Regardouche

Stu.

 

[Deciever]

welcome
answer to some of your questrions
1) sit back when your squatting. SIT WAY BACK. Give box squats a try.
3) you dont need bansd to perform speed days , you can do them with out the bands.

 

[Geno_O]

Welcome!

It sounds like you are built like me. I am also 6' 2" with long
arms and legs.

1) You will probably have to squat wide to maintain lower leg
position. I cannot do it with a narrow stance due to my body
type.

2) Do not have an answer for this one but there are a few folks
from the UK that post here from time to time.

3) Go to www.elitefts.com . There is information about alternative
exercises.

4) Go to www.ast-ss.com . There are some good articles on
diet and training.

Good luck.