i think Rip did the smart thing by not inculdng much programming in SS. When you consider how much info there is already to digest, understand and then apply to your training, adding in a comprehensive programming section would just be way too much for one book imo. but at your stage of the game what's there is a fine starting point. it isnt perfect and you've already tweeked some things with the help of the guys here to better suit your particular needs anyway.

the problem with Arnold's book and basically ALL books written by pro or former pro BBers and all the major BBing publications is that they recommend routines and supplements for the general population that are/were used by genetic freaks taking drugs. the rules are completely different for us but they do everything possible to keep that little tidbit of info from getting out!

as far as your deads go right now Doug, i would stop worrying about "exhausting yourself" and put all your focus on getting your form down.

i'm not sure where this "exhaustion" mentality is coming from anyway. My mom's aerobic class does endless reps of curls, kickbacks and lateral raises with 2lb DB's and the ladies are drenched in sweat and thoroughly "exhausted" at the end of class but are they getting stronger? nope!

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