
When I first started strength training, I did the fixed range of motion machines as part of circuit training. I liked it. Then I I started using the machines out of circuit — to develop certain muscles. I was fine with that. I even too long breaks for exclusive cardio — developing my River Runs in the process.
Then I started playing around with the cable machine for more than just triceps and biceps. I developed some things I like. It rocks. Still the free weights were mostly for shrugs and occasional forearm curls. Now, I’ve found new ways to utalize the cable pull and the dumbbells. I’ve discovered something about lifitng as well. I don’t feel well unless there’s at least some level of residual burn left from lifting.
I’ve talked about it before. The “this isn’t me” feeling. Well, it is me. It’s just someone I didn’t realize was in there, but I’m damned glad I found him.
And something else has happened as well. There’s confidence brewing — not just with the weight but with other things. At one point in my life I’d have written off recipes as too complex. Now, I know it’s just a matter of paying attention. It’s easy. I can put my own spin on it and be okay.
And as I become more confident about the dumbbells I lift, I’m developing a confidence that I won’t be dating dumbbells any more. I’ve always wanted the urbane guy with some courtesy, some sympathy, and some taste. Typically, I get guys who haven’t a clue about Chaucer and who order well drinks.
I didn’t mention that there’s a guy in my sights, and I’m a man on a mission. But you probaly figured that out, right?