Training without a partner

[sparkant]

Hey guys, my training buddy cant train for a couple of months so i have now got to get back into training on my own , the problem is i seem to have lost confidence doing heavy squats/bench presses (too short to re rack bar) and for flat dumbell presses i cant even raise both weights myself he usually passes one to me. i seem to be ok with my back and arm work just struggling with excersises that i may get stuck under if i fail a lift -after training to failiure for ages i may have to get used to backing off abit -please help !

 

[JDid23]

you can always ask someone at the gym to spot you on squats and bench..... or try to find a new partner for a little bit?

 

[moya]

use the power cage...
people are always asking me if i want a spot on my squats... and i can just think 'wtf'... if i fail, how the hell are they going to help me get it up...
just dump that shit off your back...

 

[zedhed]

If you cant get the dumbells up on your own then reduce the weight maybe??? I know its hard to suddenly be without a partner, but it will be good for your confiedence once you get yourself on track. Just reduce the weights and go from there, it will be good for you not to be dependent.

 

[InGreatShape]

Why not ask someone at the gym ? Or ask one of your other buddies to help you out.

 

[sparkant]

If you cant get the dumbells up on your own then reduce the weight maybe??? I know its hard to suddenly be without a partner, but it will be good for your confiedence once you get yourself on track. Just reduce the weights and go from there, it will be good for you not to be dependent.

thanks , in my head i knew this was the right answer just worried about losing size by dropping the weights already treading on thin ice as i just finished first cycle but i will bite the bullit and give it a go ,i used to train alone but never needed to heave a pair of 135s up back then LOL

 

[C.K.]

Um are you trying to curl the dumbells up? You should dead lift them to your knees sit down then lay down while at the same time thrusting your knees up towards your head while balancing the weight with your arms... lower the weight the same way!

 

[Ain't Squat]

Um are you trying to curl the dumbells up? You should dead lift them to your knees sit down then lay down while at the same time thrusting your knees up towards your head while balancing the weight with your arms... lower the weight the same way!

This...Getting up heavy dumbells on bench press or shoulder press is more so technique than strength. Get the technique down and it won't be an issue.

Also, for barbell presses, just ask someone to spot you on your ending sets. If they say no, you should kick them in the balls for being Jerks lol

 

[MsBeverlyHills]

Why not ask someone at the gym ? Or ask one of your other buddies to help you out.

I have to disagree on that..unless they are a very experienced spotter, asking a random gym peep to spot for you is not smart & a good way to get injured (just ask Stafon Johnson- even experienced spotters can f-up).

that said- i agree w/the poster that said train in the power cage

 

[sparkant]

Um are you trying to curl the dumbells up? You should dead lift them to your knees sit down then lay down while at the same time thrusting your knees up towards your head while balancing the weight with your arms... lower the weight the same way!

Thanks , i tried that today its like a leap of faith lying down like that but i was able to work up to 110s so in a few weeks i should be good

 

[sparkant]

use the power cage...
people are always asking me if i want a spot on my squats... and i can just think 'wtf'... if i fail, how the hell are they going to help me get it up...
just dump that shit off your back...

Thanks , tomorow is legs day gonna reduce the weight slightly till the confidence is there , kickin myself though,i used to train alone and never needed spotting but i got roped into training with a pal and kinda got dependant on the help

 

[sparkant]

legs went well squatted same as last time could have done more but will work way up as my confidence increases

 

[joe d]

i always train alone.

 

[sparkant]

i always train alone.

im definately gonna be on my own from now on .dont have to rely on anyone and can listen what my body is telling me and respond ,can back of a touch or go mad in there if i like, i just started utilising a tip that you passed on to me joe, if you dont feel like really throwing those weights around then dont go at all ,i have tried this one or two times and when i return i can focus much better

 

[C.K.]

Thanks , i tried that today its like a leap of faith lying down like that but i was able to work up to 110s so in a few weeks i should be good

Its all about the momentum baby!

 

[sparkant]

Its all about the momentum baby!

youre right dude,
i now on the 120s thats most i done naturally only got up to 130s when on my one and only cycle