Training Logs

So, I would like to take a poll. How many of you know your numbers?

For instance, how much is your one rep max front squat? Squat snatch? Clean and jerk?? I know some people could recite these numbers instantly, or consult your training log. For some of you, this might be a foregin concept and you have absolutely no idea!

I guess I should state that this isn’t just about numbers. Keeping a record of your lifts is important, but keeping a record of your sessions is just as important, for many reasons.

Keeping a training diary allows you to measure your progress. It will allow you to consult a previous benchmark time or how much you have lifted months prior, thus the next time it comes up you can see how much you have improved! This will also allow you to set realistic goals about what you wish to achieve in the coming months, or even allow you to gauge your strength/fitness coming back from an injury.

Often, you'll come to the gym, look at the board and see something along the lines of, "3 x Back squat @ 85% of 3RM." This is going to be somewhat difficult to work out/follow if you have no idea what your 3-Rep Max is, did you lift 3 @ 120kg or 3 @ 125kg?? In order to make progress in your back squat, you really need to know your exact numbers to work out 85%.

If you haven’t been consistent with recording your sessions in your training diary, or you haven't started yet, start now!! Try to make a habit of writing in your log every time you are at the gym, or if you aren't the pen and paper kind whip out your phone and utilise the forum to easily track your progress, or use an Iphone app, there are heaps!! Whatever you decide, it will take 5 minutes!!! Do it!