First month back in the gym — progress report
So after Marcus' post about starting a gym routine after 35, I actually did it. bought a membership, downloaded the StrongLifts app, and showed up. that was 4 weeks ago. here's how its going:
Week 1: everything was light and easy, felt dumb using just the bar for squats while big dudes next to me were loading up plates. almost quit.
Week 2: starting to feel it. sore but good sore? like I forgot what this felt like. also my appetite went through the roof.
Week 3: hit a groove. actually looked forward to going. started recognizing some of the regulars. one guy nodded at me. felt like I got accepted into a club lol.
Week 4: squatting 115, benching 95, deadlifting 135. not impressive by any standard but its mine and I earned it. also sleeping way better which I did NOT expect.
thanks for the push Marcus. and everyone else who said just start. you were right.
TOM!! Bro this made my entire week. This is EXACTLY how it's supposed to go. Those numbers are great for 4 weeks — you're adding weight consistently and not getting hurt. That's winning.
The sleep improvement is one of the first things people notice. Exercise regulates your circadian rhythm and your body temperature patterns. It's one of those benefits nobody talks about because it's not as sexy as "get jacked" but it's honestly one of the best reasons to train.
The nod from the gym regular cracked me up. That's the universal sign of respect in the gym. You've been accepted lol.
Keep going. Month 2-3 is where it gets really fun because you start seeing visual changes, not just strength changes. Take progress photos even if you hate it — future you will thank present you.
Let's GOOOO Tom! Dude this is awesome. The fact that you almost quit in week 1 and pushed through is the whole game. Everything worthwhile feels stupid at the beginning. Therapy, gym, learning to cook, all of it.
115 squat at 4 weeks is solid. Don't compare yourself to anyone else in that gym — they're all on their own journey. You're 4 weeks ahead of every guy who's still saying "I'll start Monday."
Tom this is so wholesome. I love this for you! Also the appetite thing is normal — your body needs fuel to rebuild. Eat!! (just make sure its mostly protein and real food per Marcus' nutrition advice haha)