This goes for everything in life. Ignore it, and it withers. Water it, and it flourishes. Why is this a big deal? Because sometimes all it takes is tiny breakthrough to make a difference. Obviously, I'm speaking in terms of my shoulder. I can either focus on what I cannot do, or just do what I can. And the reality is, no one cares about what you can or cannot more than you. If anyone does who is not your trainer or medical provider, they really need to find something else to focus on.
Lately, it's been feeling amazing. Minimal pain, minimal strange popping, minimal soreness after working it. It's only taken 7.5 months post surgery to get to this point. And I like to think the progress I've seen lately and so suddenly is because I've added in light dumbbell chest presses to "negate" all the pulling movements I do. You know, me doing more of what I'm not supposed to be.
Two weeks ago, when it was feeling ridiculously good, I snatched the 16kg for 3 reps each hand, and then 5 more reps each hand. It felt so freaking amazing. I woke up the following morning with only my rhomboids hurting due to snatching heavier weight than I've been able to for over a year. What does all that mean? It's given me confidence I haven't had a long time. And hope. Hope that I can continue to prove my doctor wrong. That I don't have to give up on one day being able to compete for Team USA. Just like a slow cooker, I'm working low and slow. Gotta build up slowly, I'm in a marathon to get to where I was, not a sprint.
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| Rhomboid |
I was able to snatch the 16kg for a few reps again last week, and again with no pain other than muscle soreness. Which is amazing. Especially when I have no pain in the front of my shoulder. I'm hoping to stave that off as long as possible because that means I'll have to stop. And I don't want to. But, enough of that shit. This renewed confidence gave me the balls to try a 10:00 snatch set on the 8kg. It's pretty laughable considering where I was and how much I currently lift, but A) to be able to do a full set on any weight is a huge step for me, B) I was able to do the set with no joint pain during, after or even the next day, and C) I was able to pace each minute, and slow down where necessary - which means I was able to hold the bell overhead for a few longer lengths with no pain. All things considered, I'm very happy. Like, very very happy. Check it out:
Yeah, it's the 8kg, but everyone needs to start somewhere. And I'm happy to even be able to restart.
