Muscle Ventures Podcasts

In this podcast (Quicktime ipod comapatible, 27MB; Google streaming flash video), I (Nancy Arnold) filmed Bud as he performed two single rep maximums (1RM).

Bud's first 1RM attempt was on the Hammer Decline Chest Press.  We have found that this press does not affect Bud's shoulder issue and he has had great success with it.  This attempt is for 342 pounds.  His previous 1RM was 312 pounds. 

The photo's at the left show the progression of the attempt.  The first photo shows his initial push off.  The second and third photo's show the mid portion of the range of motion.  The final photo shows Bud reaching complete range of motion and therefore a successful 1RM attempt!

Bud's second 1RM attempt is on the Hammer Iso-Lateral Leg Press.  As you can see on the video he makes 2 attempts at this one.  The first attempt for 570 pounds and the second at 590 pounds.  After he was successful at the 570 pound try we decided to take it up 20 pounds total (10 pounds per leg).  In the video you see Bud preparing for the attempt, assistance from me on the initial push off, and then his attempt for the 1RM.  Bud's right leg had no problem in moving the weight.  As the video shows he had trouble getting his left leg past the sticking point and did not make the 590 pound try.

After the attempt Bud and I discuss the importance of mental preparation when attempting a 1RM.  As we note in the podcast the chest RM was planned and he had time to prepare mentally.  He actually had a few days to think about it.   We, however, were not planning to do the leg press 1RM.  We both believe that the extra mental prep that this requires can make a difference in performance.   

Additional Links

• Check out some of our previous 1RM attempts!
  
• Some quick tips for improving mental focus (these were printed for runners but may be applied to any activity).
• What is mental focus (centering)?  Here is one author's advice.