18 Apr Byrd: Beat down, but not broken

Finally broke the 2,500 total mark at the Arnold, but like any lifter I feel there is more left in the tank. Focusing on some offseason goals which include gaining some weight to fill out the 275 class, improving my bench, adjusting some form issues on the squat, and adding more upper back size. The next 8 weeks will focus on raw work and speed. I feel like if I can get those things accomplished I will be looking at another PR total come meet time.

So the good news about gaining weight is I am stronger, the bad news is that my sleep SUCKS! Its part of it, and it will level out soon enough. My pec has been bothering me lately, and my knee is a little swollen from the work in just sleeves. I am going to do my best to stay the course, but if the doesnt want to get in line, then I will have to start to wrap. Really does suck, because I feel like I could put in a decent sleeved squat.

With heading to S.D. next week for the US Open I wanted to go ahead and get my training out of the way and rest up. I worked in with Brian earlier in the week, and attempted to break in some new briefs. I got in a new set of 4 ply grid stitch predators, and let me tell you….they are monsters. I only managed to get about 4 total reps in before my legs went numb. I have a nice deep bruise over my quads now, so this should get interesting haha!

This weeks training will be very light, and just mostly helping the team. I am really looking forward to heading out to SD and helping Brain put together the meet I know he can.

The following two tabs change content below.

• Bio
• Latest Posts

Jonathan Byrd

Jonathan Byrd is a competitive powerlifter, with over 16 years of training experience. Byrd has been ranked nationally for the past 6 years under multiple categories. His total has ranked as high as second nationally in the 275 class. He currently has a best total of 2500lbs. Best individual lifts include a 1040lb squat, a 750lb bench press, and 735lb deadlift. His 1040lb squat ranks him 26th all-time squats at the 308 class. Jonathan currently trains out of Team Samson Gym in Jacksonville, FL. Before powerlifting Jonathan was a college athlete at Methodist University as both an all-conference football player and track athlete. Following graduation he played four years of arena football in various leagues.

Latest posts by Jonathan Byrd (see all)

• Byrd: DAC and some lifting! - May 21, 2018
• Byrd: I Still Lift - May 7, 2018
• Client Spotlight: Jenna Rowe - April 27, 2018