Thanks for the reply:
I should say that I'm usually always ready at this point to hit a max, or do a meet, since I've been following westsides suggestions, but Like I said, I had to modify it quite a bit before I started seeing results. I definately want to get stronger and put on more muscle, those are always my goals. I'm in no hurry to do a meet at this time and have really just been enjoying the training. The 5x5 really interested me and was trying to figure out if I could tweak it by substituting different exercises.
I should have mentioned I'll also be using a Manta Ray for box squatting as well. The strength I get from using a Manta ray transfers over to the regular squat nicely. Also another of the reasons I use the manta ray is the fact that it makes it more comfortable for my front delts and elbows. I was getting alot of aches in my delts and elbows doing power squats. I take a wide grip and would take it wider but can't since I don't have a longer bar, so I tried the manta and it doesn't stress those areas as much but the exercise is harder and I use less weight than a regular squat. When I do power squats I usually can handle it for a few weeks then the shoulders and elbows start aching, it sucks because I love squatting. The gym I lift at doesn't have a very good rack or a long bar so I have to improvise. I also do a reverse band power squat and manta ray squat. I've switched recently to doing boxes to try and get my knee back to health.
I really like using reverse bands since they mimic using a suit and I can really get used to handling some heavy weight on my back. I usually will do my squats up to a heavy triple or single then add the bands and add more wt. It has really helped me. I usually do 1-3 sets of triples up to a single on this movement and that would be it for squatting. I use the medium bands, they are taking about 75lbs off the bottom, basically what I'd be getting out of a suit.
Anyway, that's some background on what I've done with squats and why I'm wondering if I can substitute certain exercises.
As far as Fridays workout, I don't have consistant training partners due to their schedules so we try and avoid boards,( I love them myself) we just don't have at least 3 people to spot on this one. Is there something else I could do or just stay with the band work or could I do a couple sets of flat bench, then slap on the bands and more weight and finish for the rest of the 5 sets? I again use the medium bands, and they are taking off 70lbs off the chest.
Or do you think I should just stick with the regular program? I feel if I do the regular 5x5 I may lose some of my top end strength on some of the exercises amongst other things.
Thanks for your time.
Holmz
