Off- Season Plans

[jgorley]

I've been reading this thread with great interest, and now I have some questions.

I've thought about competing in the masters class, but I'm not sure how to go about doing it. I'm almost 42 so I better get going before I'm TOO old. Lately, I've been hitting the iron pretty hard and I'm lifting more than I ever have. I'm close to 300lbs one rep max on my bench. But there's a lot of fat that I want to lose. Like the spare monster truck tire I'm carrying around my middle. I do have knee and ankle problems, but those are improving. So, now to the questions.

From reading this thread, it sounds like I should work on technique, but what weightlifting exercises help? Are there some explosive workouts that help? Where or how should I get some stones and weights to work with? Any advice on how to make my own? Sorry if I've overwelmed anyone. Thanks

Check out www.nasgaweb.com for the answers to all these questions. There are links to the manufacturers of the implements. Both here and there you can find some tips on making your own weights and hammers. As for the stone, do you live near a river? Look for fairly round stones approx 17lbs and 24lbs. These are typical open and braemar stones. You can always go lighter when starting!

hope this helps!
James

[Cynthia]

Also check the NASGA site for groups that might train near you. That's where I found the group I train with and my husband and I adore them. They're GREAT help, and they have a lot of the gear already so we can take our time getting things together for our own stuff My husband might even do some weight training with them (I was invited, but these guys are BIG and besides, I thought they might want to cut loose and be guys... not that they hold back around me, but you probably know what I mean).

A doctor would know best if you're able to do anything like this (you mentioned your knees, etc). Technique and form will also help prevent injuries, as well as help your throws. It's not always about muscle.

I definitely recommend finding some folks you can train with. It's more fun, and it's a ton of help.