Sam King
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Check on went well. Goal is to maintain weight this week and level out so tiny changes made to ensure this. Weight is currently 83.95kg, which I have been roughly hovering around for a while – generally 83-84.5kg but composition is always changing, positively of course.
Legs session yesterday was spot on. Banded hack squats were on the agenda – 1st set was 102.5kg for 22 reps, which an increase of 2.5kg and 3 reps. 2nd set was 115kg for 10, which I’m sure is a pb. Managed 110kg last session for 13 so happy with that. Second compound was the leg press – 425kg for 9 reps this session, 422.5kg for 9 last time so everything’s up. Very happy with the legs at the mo – hammies are beginning to pop and quad sweep is coming out nicely. Not content yet though!!
Rest day today so looking to make the most of this weather. Pull session tomorrow and deadlifts are back. Somehow have to beat 200kg for 9… hmmmm. Nervous as hell, but as soon as I lock into that bar I’m sure the magic will happen.
In any case, enjoy the weekend.
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Last few sessions have really been on the mark, really taking advantage of the slightly higher food at the moment. Inevitably it’ll have to down at some point, but currently at 130 days out so 18 and a half weeks. Currently sitting around the 84kg mark so slightly up from my last check in two weeks ago, however the weight has been stable over the last week. Check in tomorrow so will see what Corinne’s feedback is.
Sunday’s leg session saw reverse stance hack squats, banded with 220kg for 11 followed by 200kg for 12. Felt good, but was absolutely destroyed after – pretty sure that was a pb or extremely close. Next up was the safety bar squat – a lovely set of 131kg for 11 reps. One of the smoothest sets I’ve done with this so happy with that.
Yesterday’s pull session kicked off with hammer strength pulldowns. Been working very hard on connecting with this movement. Managed 13 reps on the first set and 11 on the second with 92.5kg – 2.5kg increase from last time. Now, it was time for rack pulls. I know I’m getting close to my limit, but that’s making me more stubborn. Last time I matched my reps and weight so pressure was on. Managed 243.5kg for 8 and 233.5kg for 8 so 1kg increase from last time. Very happy! Just means I now need to beat that next time.
Today’s push session saw the return of the high incline db press. Now I’ve gotten over my fear of the 45kg dumbbells, I’ve got a feel for them. Annoyed though as messed up my setup – swung the dbs up but didn’t get my shoulder in place from the momentum so had to faff. Definitely lost a rep because of that, but almost considered abandoning and restarting. Something told me not to so just went with it. Managed a lovely 6.5 reps with the 45s and then followed by 11 reps with the 40kg dbs. Half a rep pb on the first set and one rep on the 2nd. Low incline db press was on the cards next and since my shoulder injury last year, this is the one exercise that I find the hardest to progress. Today I managed 8 with the 45kg dbs (half a rep from last time), followed by 11 with the 40s (one rep increase from last time). Narrow smith was the last big compound and lost 1.5 reps on the loading set, but did increase by 2kg so will work with the same weight next time. Should be able to nail it for 8 next time.
Overall really happy with progression at the moment. Still really curious to see what is hiding under the flab! Still a little while yet, so just learning to embrace this phase.
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Fantastic work, looking very confident up there and posing looks good for a first timer – clearly put some work in. Sounds like you thoroughly enjoyed yourself, got the bug now. Did you get feedback from the judges and if so, what was the verdict?
Not long until the next one bud!
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Last night saw me doing my first posing session with @Ryan Petford. If anyone knows anything about posing, this is the go to man. We made loads of adjustments and achieved a lot in one session. Main points of feedback are that my left side naturally wants to come in a bit more, so consciously need pull the arm back and in line with my right. For now it will be a case of hitting the pose, then adjusting the arm. In time, it’ll be a smooth transition and the body will just automatically respond. It’s like when you first squat or deadlift – you take ages on the setup adjusting your stance, hand spacing/positioning etc. However, after a while it’s instinctual and auto-pilot kicks in. Although need to be careful that any bad habits do not become instinctual.
From what I saw last night, side shots are looking very good. Chest and legs are there, along with the torso thickness. You better believe I’m going to fight to keep my chest and legs during the darker days of prep. Back width and thickness are more than there, just need to learn to unfurl the lats and keep my left hand in line with my right on my waist. We tried two variations of the most muscular and depending how I look when leaner, will keep them both in. From what I can currently see, there aren’t any real weak shots in terms of development which is great. Just a case of nailing the poses.
Looking forward to putting together a routine but want to nail the compulsories and relaxed shots. Going to throw in some classic shots too once we learn what works for my body and structure/development.
Got my homework to do too. I may be 19 weeks out, but never too early to start and it’s something I want as second nature.
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Right then, pull session on Wed was really good. Nothing exciting but really connecting with the movements which is really helping with lat poses and unfurling them.
Push session yesterday was top notch. Incline hammer press managed 152.5kg for 7 reps – a 2kg increase from last time and same reps. 2nd set managed 142.5 for 9 – again, a 2kg increase over last time but one rep shy. Next up was flat press on the Smith. 102.5kg for 7 reps on the first set and 93.5kg for 9. Both very hard sets and on the heaviest smith ever so very happy. Rest of the workout was great. Shoulder is really playing ball so definitely taking advantage of that while I can.
Took Thursday as an extra rest because went to Thorpe Park with the gang. Absolutely cracking day – tiny drizzle of rain, 5 minute queues for all of the attractions and the only big ride not operational was Swarm. Literally the best day for rollercoasters. Felt a little worse for wear by the end as went on so much in quick succession. The queues are a pain in the ass sure, but you need that recovery time. As the weather was not 100%, bee given free tickets for another day. Considering how much we got on, surprised they even offered it.
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Here we go buddy, almost showtime. Enjoy every moment – it’ll be over in a flash. More than earned your place up there! Look forward to hearing the debriefing ☺
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Okie doke, updates. So a cracking leg session yesterday despite the events that preceded it. Basically went to bed at 9:15 and did not fall fast asleep until 02:00. Was up at 05:00 ready for my leg sesh somehow. Really wasn’t expecting anything and was tempted to shelve it, however I pictured all of the other competitors getting that advantage over me, that one extra session. Sounds weird but I mentally picture how I want to feel on stage and I want to be standing there presenting my best and knowing there was nothing else I could do. I was probably delirious from sleep deprivation, but did the trick.
Barbell squats – managed 150kg for 6 and 130kg for 19 reps. Very happy with that as nearly squatting double bw for reps. Very happy with that. To prime my CNS and raise my confidence, I experimented with putting more weight on the bar and literally just standing there with it. I did this for a couple of sets and then went into my working sets. Sure enough, felt much better so will be something I toy with. Will maybe in time add in walk outs – unrack the bar and step back, stand with the weight and then re-rack. Again, just want to skyrocket that confidence and get my body accustomed to supporting that weight. Obviously won’t be going overboard with this as don’t want to eat into recovery capabilities, but while calories are still reasonably high and recovery still great I will utilise this. People’s limitations with squats are much more mental than physical in my opinion.
Next up were sissy squats and smashed a set of 112.5kg for 10 on the smith. After the slight adjustments @clare barks suggested a while back, feeling so much more in my quads. Couple of grinders at the end but a very satisfying set.
Finished up with all of the fluffy stuff which we all know and love.
Today was a rest day and feeling good. Food was raised last week and more carbs have been introduced, including rest days. Body is definitely utilising this well. Probably too fat now so food will be taken away haha.
Raring to go for my pull session tomorrow – no real back loading so in a way, the easier of my 3 pull rotations. However, these are the exercises to be meticulous on. I always think it is easier, however by the end I’m a sweaty DOMS mess.
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Thanks Sam, very kind on the comments.
I try to allow Jordan as much autonomy in the decision making process as possible, less so this week as I’ll take most of the reigns back and see what we can do with regards to these first couple of shows.
I have some clients who want everything written down to the gram and that’s fine but Jordan’s thirst for learning is just as strong as his thirst for competing and doing well so rather than just barking instructions I’ll tell him my thoughts of where we need to be and he’ll make suggestions of what can be changed, dropping food from certain meals or increasing output etc, I’ll always get the final say on it but we can have a bit of dialogue as to what his rationale was behind his ideas and what my rationale was and chat about the whys and why nots.
These first two shows are open feds and there is no disability class, so these are genuinely just shows to get experience, by no means do I mean that we’re not going to look our best but we are going with realistic expectations of what is possible.
The pca show has a disability class which is where Jordan best fits currently and is the one I’m hoping we can pull a british invite on.He will be in the juniors for another 3 years so we have plenty of time to catch up in the open shows if the decision is made to go down the assistance route.
(Part of the agreement we had for working together is that he has free coaching as long as he stayed natural unless we agreed otherwise, purely because another coach his mum spoke to wanted to put him on PED’s at 17)
Well have a discussion post show on what route to take alongside his mum as well as he lives at home so it’s only respectful and right she is aware of the choices.With regards to the 5 year thing, I see things a little different from Jordan, I see him completing his degree and going into a specialisation to do a masters etc first and foremost, (autism when directed at a purpose is a superpower, not a disability and as can be seen from this prep he can do anything he sets his mind to) bodybuilding wise, that is yet to be seen, can we outgrow/outmanoeuvre his conditions or will he continue down the disability route for competing, I don’t know and I don’t see that as being disrespectful to Jordan.
There are things we have control over and things we have none, we will focus on the ones we can control and what will be will be with the ones we can’t.
Thanks again for the kind comments Sam, Jordan always brushes off just how well he’s doing and the level of respect people have for him due to beating the odds of what he’s been dealt so I love seeing the comments from everyone.
Apologies for the hijack
[/quote]Hey Stephen,
What a superb snapshot of behind the scenes and very interesting to see your perspective in line with Jordan’s, with some slight variances. I definitely believe his confidence has skyrocketed and you have nurtured him, but as you said loosened the apron strings to allow him to develop and find his own path at the same time.
A lot of people want everything spoon fed to them, which is what a lot of people are paying for – fair enough. However, it’s a two way street – coach and trainee are both learning about one another, seeing how they tick. In my eyes I always think ‘what would happen if my coach dropped me or took a hiatus? Would I be able to coach myself to a degree?’ That’s the other side as well – some coaches don’t like to be questioned and aren’t open to suggestions. Again, this wouldn’t be my preference but for some it is ideal. Sounds like you and Jordan have the perfect set up.
PEDs at 17!? Absolutely ludicrous. Fantastic to hear his mum is kept in the loop. In no way is there any disrespect to Jordan, but he is still a child (a bloody muscular one at that). 18-21 does not automatically make you an adult. It’s so easy to forget he is so young, especially in the way he conducts himself and his drive/motivation. She sounds like a fantastic woman and it’s great to hear you have that set up.
Fascinating insight into your vision for the 5 year mark. So difficult to determine as no idea what would could happen in that timeframe. So much can happen in a matter of months, even weeks. I agree though – can definitely see the route of an educator and if competing is alongside that, fab.
Thanks again Stephen for an insight into the inner workings. You have both gained so much from this partnership and it’s more than just a coaching set up. I’m sure you’ll shed a tear or two when he’s up there
All the best to the pair of you
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No worries Jordan, thanks for the reply. Hah good to hear you have found some entertainment from my log, mainly just my inner musings and rambles. Just for me to put my train of thoughts somewhere and refer back to the journey. It’s strange – I’ve seen myself evolve as the log progresses which is great, but anyway back to you.
The final week dude, bet you’re excited!? I’m sure the adrenaline will carry you through and it will fly by. For your first show everything looks set to go. Going to learn a lot about your body this week and as it’s first peak, whether successful or not, you’ll learn what works in the final days and what doesn’t. Keep your head down and just do what needs to be done. Obvious as hell but ignore all criticism and even general feedback, unless from a trusted source i.e. Stephen or your posing coach for tweaks. People mean well and want to compliment which is fine, but sometimes hearing ‘you’re shredded / ripped bro’ etc can cause people to ease off. I’m in no doubt that you’re a smart cookie and meticulous to the plan.
Keep doing what you’re doing Jordan and all the best for your first show – win or lose, definitely a winner in all of our eyes.
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Rest day on the cards today. Just a few odd jobs here and there, then seeing the ol’ mother for some reason today – can’t think why.
Gearing up for an extremely busy week, so today is a welcome respite. Looking forward to seeing the results of today’s show. All depends on who shows up in shape and/or spills over. If everyone is on point and at their best, one hell of a show to come.
Whatever your plans, have a great day =)
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Fascinating read Jordan – not only due to your personal circumstances, but also your drive and focus to make the most of what you have (which is still incredible potential). No excuses – an acknowledgement maybe, but you’re not focusing on those ‘limitations’. I say ‘limitations’ loosely as I believe quite often limitations are negative thoughts we portray and apply to ourselves, particularly in comparison to others. So many focus on what they don’t have, they miss what they do have. Cliche’, but true. I’ve been dipping in and out of your log for a while now. Been a fascinating journey and looking forward to seeing the end product.
Clear to everyone that you have a fantastic relationship with Stephen and the journey/end product, as well as the log content, is testament to that. Could this be another Neil Hill/Flex Lewis or Hany Rambod/Phil Heath set up!?
Obviously the immediate plan is to do your first show, but couple of questions for you:
1) Bodybuilding is unpredictable and there are no dead certs, however if everything is going well then where do you see yourself in the next five years?
2) After the show, how do you plan to unwind + what have you been craving?
All the best
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Looks to be a stellar show mate. Bet you’re doing an Arnold at the Olympia – pretending to go and man your clothing stand + support Harry.
In reality, you’ll step on stage last minute in the Classic and snag that card. Harry can be your Franco – running on stage to distract the crowd at points. All these ‘progress’ pics are from earlier in the year too. Sneaky sneaky.Instagram: samking104
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All I hear are excuses – forearm, bad spotter blah blah blah. I jest – that’s why I hate being spotted as 9 times of 10 they assist way too much or not enough. I’ve given several briefings on how I like to be spotted and it’s important for me to push the limits myself. Need to create and print off a pamphlet for next time. Give it to them 5 mins before requiring a spot. Guessing he didn’t spot you on the high incline db press then?
Pictures are starting to paint a picture of what’s to come. Can see a nice chunk of muscle under there. Obviously can’t 100% tell yet, but do you feel you made the improvements you were after? If I remember rightly – delts and lats were the main priority right? Maybe hams as well? Naturally your injury hasn’t allowed you to fire on all cylinders, but are you happy with what you have been able to improve on despite the situation?
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So nearly three weeks after surgery then matey. How are your veins looking now? That must’ve been scary as hell for everyone.
Training’s not all about explosive movements and massive lifts. Ensuring the movement is accurate is important for most. I couldn’t get away with sloppy technique over the long haul – doesn’t build muscle for me and just destroys joints. I know a few guys who can and their physiques are blimming massive so fair play. Worked for Coleman, Warren and Jonnie Jackson though. Boggles the mind to think how much better they could possibly be with perfect technique. Look forward to seeing more of your upcoming vids in the near future.
Good to hear, sound like a first rate father to me =) How do you find having children during the darker days of prep such as being a week or two out of a comp? Depending on their age, must be difficult to understand that mum or dad don’t have the energy to be as fun even though it’s killing them inside.
Definitely agree with you. My OH takes such good care of me and it really gives you some perspective of how much they love you, but also how much you love them. Sometimes it’s so easy to forget what you have with this modern day pace of life. They’re always fighting in your corner and supportive.
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Whew-eee, know everyone’s on the edge of their seats – did he get the deadlift? Damn right I did, 200kg x 9 followed by 182.5kg for 12 – absolutely killed me, was destroyed for the rest of the day. Over the moon though and the rest of the session was great too – progression on all lifts =)
Due to high volumes at work for next week, went in at 5:30 this morning for a few hours to get a headstart on the onslaught. Gym opened at 9 so tied in nicely. Push session today – not too shabby, but think I rushed my set up on the incline smith. 97.5kg on the first set for 7 reps, so 2.5kg heavier and 2 less reps on the first set. 2nd set was one rep less with 0.5kg added so no biggie. Made a note in my logbook to really take my time and as many sets to get warm + get the movement right. I like the DC mentality – as soon as an exercise stalls, swap it out. Now, if you have a favourite exercise and you don’t smash your sets there’s that sense of urgency for next time, especially if it’s a favourite. Obviously you have to factor in if you had a bad night’s sleep, have been/are ill, bad day of eating, stress etc. then there may be missed attempts. Just have to be objective and critical, but not too hasty or equally hesitant – a very tricky balance. Like @haidermehdi I absolutely hate the incline smith and it’s not the best exercise. However, unlike Haider I’m not a little bitch and am being stubborn with progression. Joking Haider, just lighting the fire when you’re good to train again haha.
Flat db press was next and managed a set of 7 with the 50kg dbs. Shoulder gave out first of course but the movement is feeling better each time. Maybe the 55s on the cards in the not too distant future =o Rest of the session was great as well.
Hit a few poses at the end and am happy with the overall look so far with 20 weeks to go. Legs are looking strong, which is a trademark signature of being trained by Corinne or JP. Really looking forward to seeing what the finished product will be. Getting impatient, but realise there’s a long time to go still and would rather keep progressing towards the end result =) Will post some photos soon
To anyone, who’s reading hope you have a fab weekend. Weather is gorgeous – make the most of it!
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