It's interesting that you say that because I've had so many people harp on the idea that it's best to do a hypertrophy routine or a strength routine. No mixing. I don't buy into that. Look at the 5X5 routines...point made. I didn't even consider walking the middle ground. Still, I'll probably do what I planned because I need the break, but I just thought that was interesting & a bit short sighted of me.

lol I just sat & thought about all of the things that I "thought" would happen with my training over the past few years. That is pretty funny...it's why I'm going in this direction, for better or for worse. I've only been getting the results I've planned for over the past few months. And it's not even been exactly how I pictured it. I need to read more westside stuff because that has the most carryover in principle to how I'm training, I think.

I think you may be reading a bit into what I'm saying, though. Like I tried to point out in the strength versus hypertrophy thread at some point you have to separate strength training from hypertrophy training in one way or another. The idea that it's best or necessary for EVERYONE to do that is seriously misguided, though, if that is what you mean.

5x5's only work for both for when you are still at a level of development that you don't "need" more specific strength training. But we're kidding ourselves if we think 5x5 is "optimal" of pure strength. Or pure hypertrophy.

Hmmm....I guess I need to be more specific than just to say you don't have to have a hypertrophy phase..

But given that, I think you are seeing my point in general.

^^ Yep, we're on the same page.

DB rows - 75X8, 80X8, 80X8
T-Bar rows - 3X6-8 80
Atlas stone - 160X7
DB curls - 45X16

I used the second lightest atlas stone. I picked it up to my lap, got set, and then lifted it to nearly head level and then let it drop onto some mats in front of me. No point in putting it on the platform. I took about 2 minutes between each rep. The focus was on form & I learned a good bit. Fun stuff

Atlas stones --> Very cool.

Atlas Stones!! Nice. :hbang:

There are 7-8 stones ranging between 140-360. He was talking about buying a 400lb stone today. The next stone up from the 160 is 180lbs, so that's perfect for me. Working with the stones has no comparison. Deadlifting 350lbs is easier than lifting the 160lb stone for me.

The tires range from 350 to 1200lbs. I'll be flipping tires next week. I'm thinking I might dedicate a day (or two) to strong man each week..

I am soooo jealous. Flip a tire for me will ya.

Yessir. I'll do some log pressing, axle DLs, and some other fun stuff like that for you also. :D

i smell an andrew coming :)