Last week I detailed some of the adjustments I needed to make for my first week of weightlifting. I successfully determined my workout split and found a workout partner, however, there are still various aspects that I am struggling with as a beginner weightlifter.

Firstly, as I touched on in my last blog, I’ve struggled making it to the gym on every scheduled day. With the workload from classes picking up, I find myself prioritizing schoolwork over working out. Well … maybe it’s not just schoolwork that’s keeping me away from the gym. I admittedly watched my hometown Philadelphia Eagles beat up on the Vikings yesterday in a Thursday Night Football matchup rather than go to the gym. That being said, I know I can make more time in my schedule to workout. Every morning I have been outlining my schedule in a planner courtesy of Penn State Nutritional Sciences. This planner is very convenient because not only does it allow me to track my schedule for the day, but also helps me plan my meals and record my water intake, both of which are key components to building muscle. Next week, I hope to use this planner to help me get to the gym each of my 6 scheduled days.

When I do manage to make it to the gym, another challenge I’ve stumbled upon is maintaining proper lifting form. As a beginner, I am unfamiliar with many of the exercises I’ve been performing. Therefore, many of the lifts feel awkward and unnatural. Specifically, I have trouble hitting the proper muscles on back exercises. However, I’ve been asking my lifting partner to critique my form, so with some practice, I’ve been getting better. My progress feels very gradual, but I know that each session I take an important step forward in refining my form. I can already tell that proper technique can make a substantial impact on targeting the right muscle groups. Although I’m not perfect yet, I know I will improve in this aspect over time.

Aside from these struggles, I’ve genuinely enjoyed my time at the gym. Self-improvement is something I’ve consciously practiced over the past couple of years, and I feel like weightlifting is the next step in improving myself. I haven’t noticed dramatic improvements in my strength yet, but that’s why I’m committed to the long haul. As I continue this journey, I look forward to benefits not only with my strength, but also other facets of my life such as my psychological health, work ethic, and more.

In conclusion, embarking on this weightlifting journey has been both challenging and rewarding. Overcoming scheduling conflicts, refining my lifting form, and managing my time are hurdles I’m actively working on. Nonetheless, I look forward to updating you on my progress next week and continue evolving on this fitness odyssey!

Richard B.