25 Mar Byrd: Raw Offseason Week 1

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.

I have always had issues with getting my upper back locked in and elbows down in the squat. I just dont have the ROM and really just do a poor job of focusing on it. At the Arnold Jason Pegg suggested that I go to a pinky under grip and see how it treated me. Week 1 of the offseason I started to experiment with it. I worked up to 620 in sleeves and felt pretty good. Only time will tell if I can keep big weights in place on my back with the grip but it is worth trying out!

Squat
3×5@145
2×3@235
2×1@325
1×1@415
1×1@505
1×1@600
1×1@620 (cut it high)

Bench Day

5×3 at 230 plus red band
3×1 @ 230 plus red band to 1 board

Fluff and Buff Day!

This shit better pay off Paul!

3×10 @ 205 seated OHP
3×10 incline bench
3 Stupid shoulder machines
Too many sets of curls and tricep work to count!

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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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