Rip,
I just wanted to share my progress with you and your team.
I first would like to start by pointing out that I am guilty of not doing the program.
Not surprised are you? Please let me explain.
I started training again back in September of 2022. I weighed in at 220 pounds (a little soggy) and I focused only on the following three lifts:
Squat-315 3x5
Press-110 3x5
Deadlift-325 1x5
My main goal was to deadlift 500 pounds before I turned 40.
I train these three lifts every time I am back on shift at the firehouse. I work a 48-96 work schedule and I shoot for training the first day back on. This has me training once every five days.
I also own and operate a farm full time on the side. I am married with two sons that take any of my extra time. My schedule stays full and honestly, this is all the time I wanted to dedicate to training.
After six months here are my totals.
I am currently 39 years old (09/1983), 5'8", and 230 pounds. My neck measures in at 17.75 inches and my waist is 39 inches.
I recently had to throw out all of my large t-shirts and buy new XL ones. The shirts were extremely too tight in the back and shoulder areas. My waist hasn't changed.
I recently was told that I looked like I had lost weight by a family member. They were shocked when I told them that I had actually put on weight.
My current lifts are as follows:
Squat-420 3x5
Press-163 3x5
Deadlift-465 1x5
My lifts are better than when I was in high school!
The other night I had to use a 2.5" fire hose (this one tends to push firefighters around and kick their butts) and it has never been so easy to handle.
I can now pick up off the ground and load those 225 pound molasses tubs into the bed of my 3/4 ton truck.
It feels good to be strong!
Blessings,
Ryan Keller
Cuero, Texas
update on my lifts
Squat-3x5 at 445
Press-3x5 at 165
Deadift-1x5 at 480