The 200 lb. Squat
When I was early into my powerlifting training, a 200 lb squat sounded like a mystical, magical number that was simply a dream. I never actually thought it was possible for my 125 lb / 5’4” frame to stand up from a bent knee position with a bar on my back that weighed 200 lbs. I had set myself up for a limit of no more than 200 lbs.
One fall day in 1999, I walked into the Steel City Powerlifting Club off not too far from Caledonia and wanted some help with my lifts. I was stuck at a 115 lb bench press and a 185 lb squat. I was very proud of those numbers and thought that was pretty much as strong as someone my size could get. Because I almost always trained on my own, I always knew what was on the bar. The thought of a 135 lb bench (2 of the big plates on either side) and a 200 lb squat scared the heck out of me. It literally brought on mini-anxiety attacks.
That day I left the gym having benched 120 lbs and squatted 215 lbs. Sure, Bill Jamision, the coach, had changed some things relating to form and proper stance and positioning but what really made the difference is they just loaded the bar and had me do the lift. I didn’t know how much weight was on the bar. Imagine the feeling when he told me I had just done a 215 lb squat – and it was not very difficult.
I now have few mental barriers regarding my abilities. I am up to a 250 lb squat, a 260 lb dead lift and a 145 lb bench press not to mention a 1 rep chin up with 45 lbs on my belt. That chin up goal was about 3 years in the making but I knew I would get it one day.
I am aiming for 300 in the squat and dead lift and 160 in the bench press. Once I attain them I will reset my visions of what I see myself lifting. And that will continue.
DE Coaching Team
Krista Schaus PICP CPT
Ontario CANADA
krista@definingedge.ca
Kate Kline PICP CFT
Arizona USA
kate@definingedge.ca
DE Client Services
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- Janary 2010 - Strength & Beauty "Next Level" (Milton, ON)
- January 2010 - Ontario Powerlifting Provincials (St. Catharines, ON)
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- April 2010 - CFBB Canadian Natural Physique Championships (Laval, QU)