Hey all.
I’ve become really interested in powerlifting as of late, as a way of achieving my fitness goals. Up until this time I’ve dicked around with a variety of programs, but never really had a goal outside of being “in shape”. I realized that the result is that I’m kind of skinny and weak with abs, and that I don’t really have a strong focus to my training.
I’ve been reading a lot of articles and websites about powerlifting before getting started, trying to figure out the best way to train and eat to pursue the goal of getting stronger on the three main lifts. I’m ready to throw out everything I’ve been doing and get started, but I’m not sure where to begin.
I’ve read a lot of articles at EliteFTS, things from Cressey and Tate here, and some other sites. So far every article suggests that a beginner “build a strong base” before trying to get too fancy. I’m thinking of following Tate’s suggestions in the Eight Keys series, but I’m not sure if the program guidelines are for someone way stronger than me, and if there is something else I should be doing at the outset.
Right now I’m 6’2", 185lbs. My lifts are 275lbs squat, 250lbs bench, and 365lbs deadlift. My short term goal is to get 315, 315, 405, and then increase from there. For the last three months I’ve been doing CrossFit and have decent GPP, although I’m struggling with some plantar fasciitis now and can’t run or jump rope.
Should I be trying Tate’s ME, DE day splits, or should I just be doing something more simple to start?
Also, what other kind of work should I be doing. Tate recommends sled dragging for GPP, which sounds fun. I do yoga currently for flexibility and “prehab”, but am not sure if it would hinder or help my powerlifting efforts. I know Cressey suggest some sort of regular GPP. I’m tired of trying to ride two horses with the same ass and coming up short. I want a solid program!