So I’ve decided to move on from the Surge Challenge as getting the equipment i need to complete the blocks as prescribed is incredibly difficult and stressful.
I will also say that while the pump was very strong on this challenge, that my previous training methods have produced stronger pumps (DC training, Fortitude). I think the Surge Challenge is missing out on a lot of benefits offered by not incorporating more emphasis on loaded/extreme stretches. Using these blocks as a unique version of one big ‘set’ would be well placed in other training programs when there is a lagging body part. If I ruled the world, i would adjust the scheduling of this program to increase frequency of training. This could very well be used in a push/pull or upper/lower fashion while increasing density from hitting a body part 3x in 2 weeks, to 2x per week. For people who have a history of overtraining (speaking of myself), the intensity of these training sessions isn’t enough to justify the reduced training density.
@Ellington_Darden @Tim_Patterson @Jared_Maggard thank you for the opportunity to participate in this challenge. It means the world to me having been a part of the legacy that is T-Nation, and I will always be grateful for this. I’m at a rare point in my life where I’ve had the chance to re-evaluate my priorities, and my progress in the gym is absolutely in that scope, but the gym is just as much a priority as it is therapy for me, and my therapy is stressing me out… I can’t have that.
I’m the person that stands up taller every time I get knocked down, and I just got knocked down… I need my therapy.
I’m happy to answer any questions you have regarding the Surgr Challenge (or otherwise); thank you for understanding.
New Plan: 5/3/1 + DoggCrapp
With inspiration from @davemccright, I don’t see how combining two of the best program’s I’ve run could be a bad thing, so let’s hit it.
7/18/22 - 5/3/1 + DoggCrapp M1W1D1
Struggling with pull-ups but that won’t last long. Deadlifts felt about as terrible as usual, so all good signs.