Monday, October 13, 2008

Every blue moon


The term blue moon is commonly used metaphorically to describe a rare event, as in the saying "once in a blue moon".

My journey of learning the Olympic lifts began in September 2007 and the term – every blue moon - best describes how often I get a new PR (personal record) with the snatch Olympic lift. Of the two Olympic lifts, the snatch has been more devilish and seductive for me than the clean and jerk. I’ve worked really hard trying to learn the finer points of performing it correctly, but I still have a long way to go. Along the way, however, I’ve slowly made progress and set new PRs (personal records) as the following timeline illustrates:

September 7, 2007 – 88 lbs.

September 7, 2007 – 98 lbs.

November 16, 2007 – 108 lbs.

November 16, 2007 – 118 lbs.

December 28, 2007 – 123 lbs.

January 11, 2008 – 125 lbs.

January 25, 2008 – 130 lbs.

February 15, 2008 – 133 lbs.

May 2, 2008 – 135 lbs.

May 2, 2008 – 140 lbs.

May 9, 2008 – 145 lbs.

July 28, 2008 – 150 lbs.

October 10, 2008 – 155 lbs.

Here’s my most recent PR:




My goal for 2008 was to snatch 150 lbs. so I’ve achieved that goal. At this point, I believe that getting 160 lbs. before the 2008 year is over is a real possibility so I’m training with that in mind.

But if I don’t get it I’ll understand because I know that, for me, PRs only come every blue moon.

Pax Domini sit semper vobiscum

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Excellent lift - congratulations! I've been contemplating adding this type Olympic lift to my program, but can't even get an empty bar over my head ;-)

I continue to do your shoulder mobility exercise with superb results and hope that someday I'll improve enough to add some weight to the bar.

Best regards,

Wolfgang

Pierini Fitness said...

Hi Wolfgang,

Thanks for the kudo and for visiting my blog.

Whether you ever add the Olympic lifts to your training, continue with the shoulder mobility exercise. The shoulder dislocate/overhead squat combo not only makes your shoulders feel great but your whole body as well.

Have a great day!