Day 23 and the start of what is ironically titled a “De-load Week”.

Day: 23 of 77
Date: 3/06/2013
Workout Day: 18
Weight (lb): 164.6 (7.2 lb loss)
Body Fat %: 14.8 (1.8% loss)
Health: Fine 10/10

Today was the first session of MicroCycle 3, focusing on shoulders and back. The concept of this week is to reduce the volume but increase the intensity. So the weights went up as they always do, and the fewer sets made the whole session feel somewhat easier. I definitely enjoy the heavier weights more and feel a better mind-muscle connection than when I’m running out of breath in a long set. As I was reaching failure in each set I started to visualise the molecules of creatine leeching into my cells to give me a few more reps. It sounds a bit daft but if you focus that hard on the muscle then it usually gives you a little bit more. By the end my adrenalin was sky high and I felt like I could punch a hole through the wall. I was properly pumped and felt ready to do it all over again, whilst at the same time knowing I’d done enough.

I had done enough, as can be told by the millions of needles of lactic acid that are currently burning into my shoulders. I don’t really know how Nick does it, but the session doesn’t really hurt at the end or make you feel that tired, but 30 minutes later it’s the complete opposite. Maybe it’s the adrenalin putting you completely into the “fight” mode, but now I am in neither “fight” or “flight”, and am very much in “surrender” mode.

But this is good, and reminds me that I’ve done well today. The next few days will be a bit rubbish as I’ll be abroad, trying to find some good food and good exercise. Whatever does happen I will commit to this: No unwanted / undesirable / unnecessary / non-nutritious /non meat&veg&eggs&nuts will pass my lips. It’s going to be a challenge but I will make sure this travel does not affect my plans. How do I know this? Because I HAVE to make it work. I have no choice.

“DO OR DO NOT, THERE IS NO TRY.”