23 May Byrd: Big Benching, and Big Tymers

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.

Meet Prep is here, but for the first time I will be doing bench only. I have always been a full meet lifter, mostly because I am not very good at any individual lift. On the flip side I have always had a dream of lifting on the main stage at the Arnold. The WPO lifting is what pushed me to be a powerlifter. I still love seeing the clips of those meets, and with a little luck I might get a chance to bench on the main stage. I will need to PR to get an invite, but with Paul Keys help I will get it accomplished.

Paul had me work up to a heavy triple from the 4 board raw then move to the shirt.
Raw went
410×3, 460×3 (elbow out of groove on 3rd rep)

Moved to shirt for a heavy double off the 3board
last set was 800×2

Really pleased where I am to start this cycle! Time to push towards a 800lb bench!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=57Bs5h9nFJM

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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)

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