Bit Post: Squishy and Strong

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Last week’s last set: 10 reps, 130#

4 x 10: 95-125-135-145#
(last set actually x 11)

I PR’d my trap bar deadlift today, woohooooooo!! I can now reliably lift at least my own body weight, and it was not that hard!

I knew it was possible so I asked my friends to take a video– Thanks, Elle! The last PR was some weeks ago, 135#, 6 reps; I remember it feeling moderately difficult but not impossible, so I looked forward to this block to advance the weight. Today, in the third and final week of this program, I was confident. And I killed it, if I do say so myself (I even got in one extra rep at the end, having lost count and wanting to make sure I did all ten)! I feel strong!

The day unfolded one task after another, and I only saw the video hours later.
First thought: Look at all those cutaneous fat rolls, eew! Gymwear does not necessarily flatter the perimenopausal body, I say–especially when it was purchased a decade before said menopause began, HA!

But you know what? I’m okay with it. I have pulled and pushed more weight the past week–the past 20 months, actually–than I have in my entire life. I have made remarkable progress and learned so much about my body. I’ve had pain (my body ‘talking to me’, as Jacob says) in my left glute, right forearm, left knee, low back, and right shoulder. I can always modify a movement to protect a vulnerable spot while still strengthening it, thanks to my amazing coaches. Now I need to work on grip strength (hello dead hang, omg) so I can keep loading for more weight and reps, woohooooooooo!

So really, who cares if I’m a little squishy on the outside? I carry it well.

I am well on my way to being a Strong Old Lady. I feel great body, mind, and spirit, and that’s what matters. And I can shop for more flattering clothes if I want.

To my fellow old-ish ladies: Keep pushing. Find your people. Let your body surprise you with its capacity and resilience. Have fun!

Life is short and we are here to cheer one another on!

Squishy and Strong, my friends. It’s all good.

7 thoughts on “Bit Post: Squishy and Strong”

  2. Hi Catherine

    The picture, as they say, is worth a thousand words. The first is, my doctor–literally–has gone rogue! Second, I don’t know about the squishy part, I was thinking more like, bad ass. Third, not even bothering with shoes that the lesser among us would not think of being without. Finally, there’s the look, the “hurrah”, drop-the-iron-on-the-floor-show-em-how-its-done glare. The stare down that makes people back up. 🙂

    Keep up the great work. BTW it ain’t how you look–which you should be very proud of (er, uh, yes maam), but the strength and positivity from determination, hard work and the satisfaction of personal gains!

    All the best,

    Jamie

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