This thread is similar to the T Cell's 'Graffiti Wall' or whatever. This is a place to ask questions, voice opinions, and discuss all things related to training, nutrition, and the like. I figure that the actual BOI thread is a group training log, so this thread will be specifically for anything else.

I'll start.

I realized that I need to bring up my back width (as well as everything else). I was talking to Maiden3.16 and he mentioned working up to a top set, then sticking with that weight for a few sets. So, here's an example:

BB Row:
135 x 10
185 x 10
working sets:
225 x 10
225 x 6
225 x 8

Usually I would've moved on after the first 225 set, but I feel like the extra volume will help my back grow.

This is just one volume technique. What do you guys think, and do you have any other suggestions on bringing up lat/back width? Any good exercises?

Hmm.... here are a few that I have done that I feel have worked well for me in the lat development department:

1. Frequent chins/pull ups. These are not done to failure, but as warm ups and in between sets. Really all you do is between each set of whatever you are doing, go do 3 chins/pull ups. Alternate grip and hand placement. These should not be done to failure and should be as explosive as possible.

2. Weighted chins/pull ups. Get strong with them, and size will happen.

3. High volume pull ups on your back day. This can be done in a number of ways, however one that I like is the ladder set done with bodyweight, do 2 chins, rest for 15-30 seconds, or a few breaths, then do 3, same rest, then do 5, take your rest, then do 10. Or start at ten and go to 5, 3, and 2. Then in one ladder set you have 20 pullups. This can make getting volume in much faster than traditional straight sets.

Beyond those, simply get stronger on your row variations. The exact one I don't think really matters all that much. Not really too many tricks to this.

Add to that: The ladder set technique can be done with damn near any movement really. I just find it very easy to use on chins, dips and other bodyweight variations.

Dove, good stuff. I'm surprising weak on pullups and most other BW exercises. So, I'm staggering pullups in between sets on non back days to get in extra work. I'm also using Dr. Clay Hyght's 'chest' program. It's basially this: keep your routine, but add in 3 sets of pushups @ 80% of your max. So if you can do 20 reps, only do 15-16. Do that 3 times on week 1, 4 times on week 2, and so on. I have a link to the article in my training log.

Calling all BOI. The weekend of March 2, 2012 is the Arnold Expo. I will be going with some friends, it is in Columbus, Ohio. If anyone else is going or interested hit me up and we can wreck havoc, meet huge pro lifters, and get a lot of supplements for free or discounted.

A general admission to the expo and fitness expo for the weekend is like 32$ after that you pretty much have to choose what you really want to see. I think tickets to the Arnold Mens BB Finals are around 115-200$ not exatly sure though. Anyhow Ill be there.

Achilles

Sweet. well i am 90% going as of now. Talking to some people getting a group together. Id definitely hit up the stands and stuff but also want to see some strong man and maybe some bb parts of hte shows

I think I will be going along with a special guest... see you guys there.

edit: make that 2 special guests from T-Nation.

Alright sounds good still lots of time but when it gets closer we can talk about meeting up and such.