Every six months at my gym, members get to test their one-repetition maximum (1RM), which means the maximal weight an individual can lift for only one repetition with the correct technique. On Monday, I tested my 1RM for Olympic weightlifting, including the snatch and the clean and jerk. My snatch 1RM increased by 5 pounds (100 lbs) and my clean & jerk increased by 40 pounds (140 lbs) compared to July of 2021.
An increase of 5 pounds seems very easy. In reality, it is not that easy because every pound matters when one is near the 1RM. So, I'm very happy with my new personal records, especially the clean and jerk. How did I make such progress? Redbull? Or anything that helped me gain strength on that day? Nope. Only my practice makes a difference.
The practice was boring because we never got to find out what our maximum was. Instead of training with 1RM weights, we used lighter weights during a regular session. It was also discouraging to make so many mistakes during practice. Nonetheless, I rarely missed any weightlifting training sessions in the last six months. I also got the chance to correct my technique with the assistance of my coach.
American golfer Sam Snead once said, "Practice puts brains in your muscles".
My students always hear me say that practice makes perfect. Exams can only be aced through frequent practice with regular assignments. The same is true for life as well. There's no shortcut to success. Don't forget to practice, and take the necessary steps to steadily progress.
