Bench Press 5 X 3

Early Afternoon

WU: 2 rounds

Shoulder dislocates, 10 left legged pistols, samson stretch, 10 pullups, 10 dips, 10 situps

Workout: Bench Press 5 X 3

Loads: 235# (1st rep failed, a little over zealous. Did not count towards the workout)

195#, 205#, 225# (failed second rep), 215#, 220# (failed second rep)

Workout comments: Used a Smith machine to do this workout. Approximately 3 minutes rest between each set.

General comments: I was lured over the SuperFit in Conshohocken with a $10.99/month sale. Since my work gym is somewhat limited in the equipment they offer, I figured I could use the equipment here and sort of set up my own little corner. The facility is huge and they have tons of space...empty space. Which is why I was surprised when they attendent told me that they had just gotten rid of all the squat racks and heavy lifting equipment. Apparently, they don't want to attract the menacing juicers that scream and grunt and scare everyone off. Rightfully so, but it still stinks that you are operating a gym that is run without basic fundamental equipment. Didn't stop them from buying about 178 treadmills and twice as many elliptical machines. I guess you cater to your clientel.

On another note, I finally went to an orthopedist about my ankle. He took X-rays and said they were negative. Ligament, tendon, and muscle sprains of this nature can often show symptoms for 3 months unless properly rested. But since he didn't know exactly what was sprained, I'm not sure how long this thing will keep aggravating me. I will try to stay completely off it (no lower body workouts) for at least a week and see if there is any reduction in pain. He did suggest that I wear this ankle brace in the meantime to prevent reinjury. Still makes me wish I went to a sports medical doctor.

Having an injury really puts things into perspective. On any normal day (and especially on weekends) I would have difficulty dragging myself out the door for a long run. But now I feel trapped in my own body, wanting so badly to get outside. Nothing seems to be helping. Do you know how few cardiovascular workouts you can accomplish with only your upper body (swimming excluded)?