Zingaritano’s BodyBlog

I am noticing a lot more posts lately regarding people losing their motivation to train.  I find it ironic that for the first 44 years of my life, I would be the last person you would find in a gym, yet since I joined a gym I have never lost my motivation.  I can’t see myself ever not working out!

With that said, it does not mean I don’t get discouraged by my progress from time to time.  I think the worst was about a year and a half after I started training.  I saw myself making incredible newbie gains during my first year, then very little progress from a year to a year and a half.  I have come to realize however, that this pursuit is a marathon, not a sprint.  I also now accept the fact that even when I don’t feel like I am making a lot of progress, I am making more than if I did not train.

I know this is hard to believe, but until this past week I had never even tried a NO product (after 2 1/2 years of lifting).  I got a free same of SuperPump and used it before my arm workout a couple of days ago.  The pump was incredible.  I know it can be debated whether NO products help permanent muscle growth, but it sure did motivate me to train harder!

For the last couple of months I have been working once a week with a trainer.  I never thought I would, mostly based on the ones in the gym who work with people who never improve.

Anyway, this trainer recently opened a private studio a block from where I work.  He offered an introductory 1 visit special and I figured what the heck-I could use some feedback on my form.   That visit convinced me I could really use his help.  He really kicks my butt, and I have made more improvements in strength and size that I ever thought possible. 

I have completely changed my mind regarding trainers, and am indeed fortunate to have found who I believe is one of the best out there - and only one block from where I work!

I have gotten a few questions regarding how I developed the “peak” on my bicep.  Don’t get me wrong – I work my arms very hard on arm day, but I believe their shape is largely genetic.

I read somewhere on this site that if you can fit three fingers between your elbow and your bicep when your arm is bent at a 90 degree angle, then you have a “no lower bicep”.  Since I can easily fit three fingers in this area (and I only have a 32” sleeve), then I suppose I fall into this category.

The advantage of having this genetic trait is that it is easier for my bicep to look “peaked” when flexed.  The disadvantage is that when my arms are not flexed they look rather unimpressive.

For those who also have the same trait, I recommend spider curls (as opposed to preacher curls), and reverse curls to develop the brachialis muscles (which make the lower part of the bicep to appear larger).  

I figure now is as good a time as any to start a blog.