1 month stronglifts progress (pic)

Maleficent0241 · March 2014

I wouldn't even begin to call myself a success story yet, but I figured I would share the meager progress I have made so far. About a month ago, it was suggested to me to try a program like Stronglifts 5x5. I looked into the program and liked the simplicity of it, so I have been giving it a go. I have had to miss days here and there due to my health issues, but here is my progress so far:

I know, very little change, but I felt like I was making NO physical progress at all (scale hasn't changed, pants size the same) but after taking pictures I noticed that my butt and legs are tightening up some and was pretty surprised to see it. Maybe I am looking too hard and there is nothing there, but even if there is no visual progress I have:

Increased my squats by 40 lbs
Increased my bench by 30 lbs
Increased deadlifts by 40 lbs
Increased my rows and OHP by 30 lbs

I've had to modify increases here and there, so I probably should be further along, but I am happy with how much strength I have gained. I couldn't even squat a standard bar, and I tried it today during warmup and actually checked to make sure the 45 lb bar was the one I picked up!

Also, an unexpected benefit - better posture! My posture sucks and it has already improved immensely.

Anyway, I guess I am just posting this in public to remind myself that not all progress is made in pants size. I am getting healthier and stronger, and I think I am pretty happy with that. I still have A LOT of weight to lose, but maybe for the first time since my struggle started I am on the right path.

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