NROL's Hypertrophy I, Workout B8
All exercises 5x5, 90 seconds rest except for abdominals which are 3x15, 60 seconds rest
A1 Squats 75
B1 Deadlifts w/Shrug 75
C1 Bulgarian Split Squats 20, 20, 20, 25, 25
C2 Step-Up 20, 20, 20, 25, 25
D1 Reverse Crunch (w/6 lb Medicine Ball between Knees)
Squats and Deadlifts - I was initially daunted by the weights, which proved to be psychological, as once I started lifting I was ok. Grip issues are still there, and I will watch form more closely too, but on the whole these went surprisingly well.
Bulgarian split squat - For the first time since I tried to do these, the left leg did as well in terms of balance as the right. The funny part is, there's a cable machine that I'd hold onto to help my balance to put my right foot on the bench. Well, today, I was able to get into position WITHOUT holding on to anything, and I felt much more balanced as a result. I think the heavier weights holding me down helped, but it was more the setup. Also too, I felt quite strong doing them this time. Hopefully this will continue for when I do the 3x15 workout later this week.
Step-ups - Still need to work on truly proper form, but these went well too.
Reverse Crunch - with 6lb Medicine Ball between my knees. Something different and a bit different challenge in this exercise. I might use the 12lb one next time to see if I can do it.
Overall - I'm nearly ecstatic with this workout... Squats and Deadlifts felt great, and the bulgarian split squat is one step closer to becoming MY bitch for a change. Step-ups and reverse crunches were just fine too, if a bit anticlimactic after the bigger lifts.
