Feeling stronger

Somehow, after only a couple of weeks at the gym, I'm actually feeling stronger. Today's proof was leg extensions. 

I usually do a few warm-up reps at a lower weight before using my target weight for an exercise. My coach set the bar quite lower than what I was capable of, and even he was surprised when I managed a third set of eight reps at 110 lbs. Thankfully, my quads had recovered from that unbearable squat exercise he had me do about a week and a half ago. 

In general, my lower body is stronger than my upper body, if no other reason than carrying around this 200+ lb frame. I know I have more work to do with arms, shoulders, chest, and back, which is why I usually start my workouts with upper body. The theory is that you train your weakest area at the start of the workout when you are freshest.

My right shoulder/upper arm has been giving me a bit of pain in certain movements. My trainer recommends a dead hang, which aligns everything and stretches the muscles, ligaments, and tendons into proper alignment. I end every workout with it, and on rest days, I intend to use the jungle gym at my neighborhood playground for this exercise.