Squat Failure 90 kgf (198 lbs) x 4
Yes, I have read the sticky. And yes, I have violated almost every video guideline - dark pants, shitty camera angle, posting only a single video and it is not a 45 degree perspective view, 2nd set and not the 3rd, a towel obstructing the view, partial frame, and so on.
But hey, listen. My gym does not permit videography (Changing the gym is not an option - I can't afford another membership). I shot this video at the risk of getting expelled if found out. I did this at an opportune moment when the trainers were elsewhere and the squat rack area was nearly deserted, except for a Bro bouncing and twisting and wriggling on a swiss ball right in front of me (he is not in the frame). And what you can see is the best camera position (on a tyre flip machine next to the rack) and angle I could manage in a hurry during my clandestine operation.
Here is the short story. I am 5'4", 70 kgf (154 lbs), 38 years, Male. 9th week of NLP. Started the squats at 45 kgf (99 lbs). Now stalled at 90 kgf (that is just 1.28 times my bodyweight). Today was my third attempt at this weight and I managed 4, 4, and 3 reps respectively. Here is the long story: https://startingstrength.com/resourc...e-9-weeks.html
Here is the 2nd set of 4 reps (I could not shoot the third set, which might have been really comical to watch. The trainers were back in the room by then).
YouTube
Of course, I have read the book. And yes, my technique is not perfect. Here is what my novice eye could infer:
1) Wrist extension. I am using a thumbless grip, but I extend my wrists and weight was supported by the palms. Stupid me. I have noticed this for the first time.
2) Looking up occasionally as I come up. I don't generally do this, but today I was distracted by the gym bro on the swiss ball who was only a few feet in front of me.
3) I am using a 4" belt instead of a 3" one (I am custom making a 3" belt and it is still with the cobbler https://startingstrength.com/resourc...om-3-belt.html). But I am okay with 4" belt for the squat, but perhaps I can do better with a 3" one. (I deadlift with a cheap 3" velcro belt).
You are free to deride me for posting an atrocious video. But any technical input / feedback will be immensely helpful.
Note: Since I have failed thrice at 90 kgf, I am planning to reset to 80 kgf. I have already upped my calories, protein and caffein intake as suggested by Rip in the Programming Forum.