Everyday Systems

Hello everyone,
I just discovered the systems a few days ago, it was one of those rare times where everything really resonated with me. It immediately felt true, and after thinking about it my initial impression remained. So I'm starting shovelglove on Friday, after I pick up a sledgehammer.

I've been a casual strength trainer for over a year now. I use dumbbells for most exercises, and I usually take my time when lifting. Shovelglove gets the whole process over in 14 minutes, but it's continual. I'm starting with a 12 pound sledge because the exercise has no rest. I've built up some fairly decent muscles in the last year so I have to wonder if I'm shooting too low. Has anyone starting at a higher level started with a 14pounder with success.
I'm a 6' male in my mid-thirties.

Welcome!

I think it's safer to start on the low side. And I think you'll find it surprisingly challenging, at least initially. The power of leverage makes 12 pounds heavy indeed.

I wasn't in the greatest shape when I started with a 12 pounder, but I'm a "big boned" six footer and it stayed reasonably hard for about a full year before I upgraded.

If it takes you less time to max out, well, the extra sledge not a huge investment for significant injury/burn out insurance. And old, lighter sledges never quite become obsolete -- I still resort to my 12 and 16 pounders if I'm feeling very beat or want to do some more acrobatic moves (like the one-handed "spear the fish").

Reinhard

reinhard wrote:Welcome!

I think it's safer to start on the low side. And I think you'll find it surprisingly challenging, at least initially. The power of leverage makes 12 pounds heavy indeed.

I wasn't in the greatest shape when I started with a 12 pounder, but I'm a "big boned" six footer and it stayed reasonably hard for about a full year before I upgraded.


Reinhard

Thanks for the info Reinhard, and for your systems. I'm looking at a very busy spring 09 so shovelglove should keep me in shape and may well replace the dumbbells altogether.