Dedication, sweat, and heavy lifting – that’s what we’ve all been about lately. Seeing everyone pushing their limits and working towards their goals has been inspiring. It’s time to put that prep work to the test and set starting points to track your progress.
If you haven’t been in for a while or are looking to join, this is a great opportunity to jump in and be amazed at the progress you’ll make in the mirror and when we re-test later this fall. Don’t forget, the holidays are just around the corner.
🏋️ **Max Testing This Week** 🏋️
After three weeks of progressively heavier loads to prime your body, it’s time to check in to see where your strength stands. This week, we’ll test our one-rep maxes (1RM) or aim for a heavy single to use as a reference weight for future lifts and starting points to track your progress. At the end of our strength cycle, we’ll test again to measure your progress.
Remember, strength training and muscle-building are vital for your health and longevity. Combine consistent hard work at Stronger Faster with proper nutrition, adequate protein intake, and quality sleep, and you’re on the path to a transformative journey. It won’t happen overnight, but one day, you’ll look back and thank yourself for your dedication to your health and fitness.
🏃♂️ **Hyrox PFT Community Event – Sunday, 10/1** 🏃♀️
Mark your calendars! Our 2nd Hyrox PFT community event is just around the corner on Sunday, October 1st. REGISTER HERE What’s so special about it? Well, it’s not just for members; it’s open to everyone and entirely FREE! We encourage you to invite your running and endurance friends/neighbors, share it on social media, and let fellow clubs know. The more, the merrier!
This event introduces a unique hybrid race format that combines running with strength challenges, helping us all become more well-rounded physically and in our pursuit of health.
Plus, you can compare times with others across Houston or Texas or the USA. It is a great preview to the HYROX races in November in Chicago 11/11 and Dallas 11/18, and all over Europe. To learn more about Hyrox, check out their website at hyrox.com. Repeatable/consistent races/competitions like Hyrox are a great way to track your health, fitness, and progress over time, just like tracking the weight on the bar or how you look in the mirror.
💪 **Stronger Faster Houston – Your Path to a Healthier You** 💪
While the Hyrox PFT race is set for October, let’s not lose focus on the present week. Testing your strength and pushing your boundaries now, regardless of your age, is building the foundation to safeguard your future health. As we age, we naturally lose muscle mass, but what you do today contributes to protecting your health down the road. Muscle loss is a natural part of aging and is called sarcopenia. After age 30, people can lose 3–5% of their muscle mass each decade. This rate of decline is even higher after age 60. Most men will lose about 30% of their muscle mass during their lifetimes.
So, safely embrace the challenge this week, and let’s set some new personal bests! Be smart about weight selection, use a spotter, and if something doesn’t feel right, opt not to push it. This week is about setting starting points and staying healthy. At the end, we have more tips for this week.
Keep up the fantastic work, and remember, every effort you put in today sets the stage for a healthier tomorrow. Together, we’re building stronger bodies and a stronger sense of community and support.
Let’s keep pushing boundaries, setting new goals, and helping each other reach them. Stronger Faster Houston supports you in every step of your fitness journey.
Missing a day this week? Fear not, Wednesday and Saturday are great opportunities to make up a test lift if life gets in the way.
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**Preparing for a 1 Rep Max (1RM)**
This week, we’re diving into the exciting world of 1 rep max testing. It’s a thrilling moment when you challenge yourself to lift close to your absolute limit. To make the most out of this experience and ensure you’re ready to conquer your personal best, here are some essential tips:
**Warm-Up Thoroughly**: Warm up adequately before attempting your max lift. Start with light weights and gradually increase the load to activate your muscles and prepare your nervous system for the heavy lift. Keep reps low as you get heavier to that you are not overly taxed.
**Maintain Proper Form**: Correct form is crucial for safety and performance. Pay attention to your technique, and don’t hesitate to seek guidance from our coaches if needed. Don’t continue to add weight if your form breaks down. Check your ego and be ready to fight another day.
**Rest and Recovery**: Ensure you’re well-rested leading up to your 1 rep max attempt. A tired body won’t perform at its best, so prioritize sleep and recovery the days before and rest adequately between sets.
**Nutrition Matters**: Fuel your body with the right nutrients. Carbohydrates provide energy, while protein aids in muscle repair and growth. Hydration is also essential; aim to stay well-hydrated throughout the day.
**Mental Preparation**: Believe in yourself! Positive thinking can go a long way in lifting heavier weights. Visualize your success and focus on the lift at hand.
**Listen to Your Body**: If you’re feeling off on the test day, it’s okay to postpone it. Don’t force a 1 rep max if you’re not in your best condition; safety always comes first.
**Record Your Progress**: Keep track of your max lifts in wodify to measure your progress over time. This data can help you set realistic goals and stay motivated.
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Remember, the goal isn’t just about the number on the bar; it’s about pushing your limits and achieving personal growth, safely. So, gear up, give it your all, and let’s set some impressive starting weights together!
If you have any questions or need further information, please don’t hesitate to contact us and your coaches. Your safety and success are our top priorities!
Stay strong and keep striving for your best,
Colin & Lisa & SF HTX Coaches
