Brian Hopper's Training Log

[Brian Hopper]

Great work Brian! Must be feeling chuffed to be getting some mobility back in that knee!!

Thanks Gazzy!!!! It feels great, but I do experience some pain. But as long as it keeps getting better I'm good :)

[Tim K]

There is no reason why you can't chalk it up for BW squats... no reason at all. :D Doing good Brian! Its great to see you posting workouts again!

[Brian Hopper]

There is no reason why you can't chalk it up for BW squats... no reason at all. :D Doing good Brian! Its great to see you posting workouts again!

Your right, maybe next time...lol. It does feel good to start training again that's for sure :strong:

[t gale]

hey Hopp, glad to see things are well and ur back in the gym. it must feel good to get back.

[Brian Hopper]

hey Hopp, glad to see things are well and ur back in the gym. it must feel good to get back.

Thanks Tim, it feels great. I just can't wait to start hitting it harder.

[muscle_g]

Looking good Brian! Glad your able to start back working out:)

[ThomasG]

Woot woot looks like I came back in here at the right time! What's your training schedule looking like now?

[CHASE TRUSNOVEC]

awesome seeing you back!!! Cant wait to see the comeback!!

[john o]

....and so it begins. Exciting progress!

[Brian Hopper]

Looking good Brian! Glad your able to start back working out:)
Thanks alot George, it's rough but I'm making it.


Woot woot looks like I came back in here at the right time! What's your training schedule looking like now?
You sure did, lol. So far I'm sticking with back work on Monday, chest&triceps on Tuesday and then shoulders and biceps on Thursday or Friday. Once I find a meet then I'll change it up alittle, I'll post that up when the time comes.


awesome seeing you back!!! Cant wait to see the comeback!!Thanks alot Chase!!!


....and so it begins. Exciting progress!
It's beginning slowly, lol. As soon as I feel like I'm ready for a meet then it's on like donkey kong!!!

[NickAus]

Great news!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[LuNa]

Great to see you back at it Brian! Very excited to see how things progress.

[HJP]

Solid bench session!!

Nice to see some legs rehab too. Good stuff mate

[Brian Hopper]

Great news!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks Nick :)


Great to see you back at it Brian! Very excited to see how things progress.
Thanks Luna, same here.


Solid bench session!!

Nice to see some legs rehab too. Good stuff mate
Thanks, you'll be seeing alot of the rehab stuff....lol.

[Brian C]

Your going to be back in force in no time!

[Brian Hopper]

Your going to be back in force in no time!

Thanks B!!!

[Brian Hopper]

Friday
06-10-11
Shoulder's & Biceps

Standing military press
BARx10
95x10
115x10
135x10
135x10
95x10

***Giant supersets***

Set 1
Side raises
20x10
Front raises
20x10
Rear delt raises
20x10

Set 2
Side raises
20x10
Front raises
20x10
Rear delt raises
20x10

Upright rows
45x20
65x12
65x12
65x12

Barbell curls
45x10
65x10
65x10
65x10

**************************************************

Knee Rehab

Upright stationary bike
10 minutes

Leg press machine
62x10
84x10
84x10
102x10

***Supersets***

Set 1
Step-ups
BWx10
Seated leg curls
60x10

Set 2
Step-ups
BWx10
Seated leg curls
60x10

Set 3
Step-ups
BWx10
Seated leg curls
80x10


Notes:
Not a bad day, I was short on time so I really had to train quick so I can get my rehab work in. I noticed that I am starting to put some weight back on. I got down as low as 237 in the AM and now I am about 241 in the AM. But other then that, not a bad week for getting back into it :)

[MarcusWild]

Solid work. Are they telling you to push your good leg as much as you can? When Mark broke his arm, he trained his good side as hard as he could. Once his arm healed, it seemed his weaker side gained strength a lot faster to catch up to the good side. The more strength you maintain in your good leg the better off you'll be.

[Off Road]

How's the standing press effecting the knee?
Great to see you in there lifting again.

[HJP]

Overhead lifting is good to see Brian! It hurt the bad knee at all?

[john o]

That's a lot of work bud!

[Brian Hopper]

Solid work. Are they telling you to push your good leg as much as you can? When Mark broke his arm, he trained his good side as hard as he could. Once his arm healed, it seemed his weaker side gained strength a lot faster to catch up to the good side. The more strength you maintain in your good leg the better off you'll be.

Thanks Marcus. No they didn't say anything like that. I have been working each side to balance it out though. I feel like I could of gone heavier on the leg press machine, but not sure if I would be using my good leg to do the pushing. I'm going to see a my best friend in Orlando on Monday who happens to be a PT and deals with ALOT of athletes. So I'll ask him and see what he says.

[Brian Hopper]

How's the standing press effecting the knee?
Great to see you in there lifting again.

Thanks OR!!! It wasn't that bad, I was a little nervous at first. Maybe because the weights were light, lol. Next week I'll probably do them seated since I haven't done them seated in a long time.

[Tim K]

Lots of good, solid work accomplished today Hopper! Looking forward to seeing what you hit on seated presses.

[Brian Hopper]

Overhead lifting is good to see Brian! It hurt the bad knee at all?

Thanks alot!!! It didn't bother me at all, but I tried to be extra careful.

[Brian Hopper]

That's a lot of work bud!

It didn't seem like much, but on paper it does look like alot, lol.

[Brian Hopper]

Lots of good, solid work accomplished today Hopper! Looking forward to seeing what you hit on seated presses.

Thanks Tim, it's gonna be awhile before I push the weight. But I shoot video of it :)

[Coke]

Good deal on your Orlando friend who knows much about rehab. This is going to be a long winding road no matter how you look at, it is great to see these sessions as you move it along.

You of all people will get there Brian, it will take some time.

[Brian Hopper]

Good deal on your Orlando friend who knows much about rehab. This is going to be a long winding road no matter how you look at, it is great to see these sessions as you move it along.

You of all people will get there Brian, it will take some time.

Thanks alot Terry for the support!!!!

[Brian C]

Had to feel good to get in and get some decent work in. Nice session Bri!

[covpride]

Awesome man, stoked to see you in the gym training again Brian! Keep it up, making great progress.

[ThomasG]

Solid work Brian. Great to see you doing leg work like that already.

[Brian Hopper]

Had to feel good to get in and get some decent work in. Nice session Bri!

Thanks alot B, it does feel good to be able to start training again.

[Brian Hopper]

Awesome man, stoked to see you in the gym training again Brian! Keep it up, making great progress.

Thanks alot!!!

[Brian Hopper]

Solid work Brian. Great to see you doing leg work like that already.

Thanks Thomas!!!! It's amazing how weak my leg is now, lol.

[NickAus]

One work WORK ETHIC :)

Ok two words.......

[Brian Hopper]

One work WORK ETHIC :)

Ok two words.......

Haha, thanks alot buddy!!!!

[Mark!]

Lots of work man, awesome job.

[Brian Hopper]

Lots of work man, awesome job.

Thanks Mark!!!

[LuNa]

That was a big session Brian. Amazing to see you putting this work in this quick. Keep it up!

[Off Road]

Brian, are you sticking to some type of a schedule or just winging it for now? If so, what is it?

[Kiff]

Amazing to see how quick the body can recover when you put 100% into recovering :)

[Brian Hopper]

That was a big session Brian. Amazing to see you putting this work in this quick. Keep it up!
Thanks Luna!!!!


Brian, are you sticking to some type of a schedule or just winging it for now? If so, what is it?
Not with my training. I'm doing my normal back work on Mondays, chest & tricep work on Tuesday, and Shoulders & bicep work on Fridays. But i'm just going in and doing whatever right now.


Amazing to see how quick the body can recover when you put 100% into recovering :)Oh yeah, i'm seeing some small gains. I am alittle behind for almost being 6 weeks post-op. But mainly on the strength portion. But i'm sure it will come around pretty quick.

[Brian Hopper]

Tuesday
06-14-11
Superset day
Chest-Back-Triceps

Superset #1
Bench presses with a fat bar
BARx10
125x10
165x10
185x10
205x10
225x10

With...

Pull-ups
BWx6
BWx6
BWx6
BWx6
BWx6



Superset #2
Incline presses
135x15
135x12
135x12

With...

Seated CSR
90x12
110x12
110x12



Superset #3
Flat DB flyes
30x10
35x15
40x12

With...

Close grip pulldowns
100x10
110x10
120x10



Superset #4
Pushups with the "Perfect Pushup"
BWx10
BWx10
BWx10

With...

Shrug machine
200x20
250x20
250x20



Superset #5
Nosebreakers with a fat bar
75x15
95x12
95x12

With...

Pushdowns with a green band
BANDx12
BANDx10
BANDx12

Stationary bike with the pedals in front of you
10 mins

DONE
This week I can only train 2x. Yesterday I was doing PT in Orlando, Thursday we are going to Miami, and Friday is full of doctor appointments. So today I decided to do chest, triceps and back and for some silly reason I decided to do superset. I did alot of work, but it felt good to get in and something different which leads me to the....

"Tip of the day"
Don't be afraid to try new things. If your like me you get bored doing the same thing over and over again. Switch it up and try something different. Be creative with your training, your body will appreciate it :)

[Tim K]

I'm done training for the week from just reading all that! *whew* Big training day!

[Coke]

The supersets were used to good effect, glad to see you step outside the box to keep things fresh.

[Off Road]

You're gonna get "jacked" doing that waorkout :)
That was a ton of work. I think it shows that you've held onto a lot of your conditioning, which is awesome.

[ThomasG]

Nice volume. I agree on your "Tip". Having training partners has really opened my eyes on that aspect.

[Brian Hopper]

I'm done training for the week from just reading all that! *whew* Big training day!


The supersets were used to good effect, glad to see you step outside the box to keep things fresh.


You're gonna get "jacked" doing that waorkout :)
That was a ton of work. I think it shows that you've held onto a lot of your conditioning, which is awesome.


Nice volume. I agree on your "Tip". Having training partners has really opened my eyes on that aspect.

Thanks guys, I've never done an entire workout that was all supersets. It was tough but I managed. I'll probably do the same tomorrow with shoulders and biceps because I need to do my rehab work which will take almost an hour.

[john o]

Interesting session there Brian! Looks pretty tough.

[Brian Hopper]

Interesting session there Brian! Looks pretty tough.

Thanks John, it was alittle tough. But mainly because I don't really do them.

[NickAus]

Plain amazing reading you back at it Tank!!

Taking my hat off.......

[Kiff]

Solid session man!

[HJP]

Nice tip! 100% agree!! Solid day of supersets there too!!

[Brian Hopper]

Plain amazing reading you back at it Tank!!

Taking my hat off.......


Solid session man!


Nice tip! 100% agree!! Solid day of supersets there too!!

Thanks alot guys, I appreciate it!!!!

[Brian Hopper]

Wednesday
06-15-11
Superset day
Shoulder's & Biceps

Superset #1
Seated chain suspended shoulder presses
BARx10
95x12
135x10
155x10
175x10
With...
Chaos barbell curls
BARx10
BAR+10lbs hanging off each side x 10
BAR+10lbs hanging off each side x 10
BAR+20lbs hanging off each side x 10
BAR+20lbs hanging off each side x 10


Superset #2
Side laterals
20x12
25x10
25x10
With...
DB curls
20x10
25x10
25x10


Superset #3
Facepulls
30x20
35x15
40x15
With...
Hammer curls
30x12
40x12
40x12

**************************************************

Knee rehab

-Bike for 8 minutes
-Wide rotations and tight rotations with an 8lb med ball
-Front and side lunges for 2 sets of 8
-Tri squats (I'll explain later on, it's pretty much bodyweight squats with 3 different stances) for 2 sets of 8
-Theraband shuffles for 2 sets for 10 yards each
-Walking one legged hamstring stretch (I stand on one leg and bend over to stretch your hams) 2 sets for 10 yards each
-Step-ups on a 13" box for 2 sets of 20 (This box is alot bigger then I was using, so that's a big improvement)
-Leg presses (single leg) 90x10, 140x10, 140x10

If your not sure of something just ask me and i'll try my best to explain. There are a couple more exercises I need to do, but once again I was short on time. I will try and get in on Friday and just do my rehab...if I have time.

[Brian Hopper]

I finally made the trip out to Orlando to see my friend.....and i'm glad I did. He really put me to work and in pain, lol. This is what I need and i'll be seeing him more often. He gave me list of new exercises to do and I'll post them and try my best to explain them. He did say that I'm doing ok, but being that im 6 weeks postop tomorrow, he wants to see me a little more stronger. So now it's time to get to work!!!!!!


Here is a picture of him and I at his facility:
http://www.wannabebig.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=30233&d=1308156561

[Coke]

Really are staying on top of things Brian, which is what we'd expect, all of which speeds up your recovery process.

[john o]

Things are falling into place. The new exercises will hopefully be beneficial.

[LuNa]

Amazing session Brian. Your upper body strength seems to be keeping up.

Cool pic as well, you still look huge :p.

[Off Road]

I can see that intensity returning. Go get it Brian.

[NickAus]

Great pressing work!!

Looking healthy as can be in the photo bro!!

[Brian Hopper]

Really are staying on top of things Brian, which is what we'd expect, all of which speeds up your recovery process.


Things are falling into place. The new exercises will hopefully be beneficial.


Amazing session Brian. Your upper body strength seems to be keeping up.

Cool pic as well, you still look huge :p.


I can see that intensity returning. Go get it Brian.


Great pressing work!!

Looking healthy as can be in the photo bro!!

Thanks alot guys!!!! I feel this new list of exercises is going to help me alot better. My buddy Justin was actually my first training partner and he helped me with my first powerlifting meet.

[Brian C]

Cool that he is helping you out with everything. Great work buddy!

[Brian Hopper]

Cool that he is helping you out with everything. Great work buddy!

Thanks alot B!!!

[HJP]

What facility does Justin run?

Nice session man. Upper body is looking good! Keep up the good work :)

[Brian Hopper]

What facility does Justin run?

Nice session man. Upper body is looking good! Keep up the good work :)

I can't remember the name. I'm gonna do a big update later tonight and I'm going to post his info so check back later tonight or tomorrow.

Thanks alot bro, I feel pretty damn sore. Even my legs are sore from the rehab work I started doing this week.

[Brian Hopper]

We are on our way to Miami for the day!!!! I might not be able to get to some of your logs until later. But I'll try my best :) train hard today guys :strong:

[-JM-]

Hitting the sessions in a big way Brian! Sorry if you have mentioned it but how has your BW faired during this phase of rehab?

[GazzyG]

Inspiring watching you hard at training again mate. Amazing stuff!

[HJP]

Good work man, looking forward to the update! Enjoy Miami! You are a motivator to us all Brian, keep it up!

[t gale]

great job Hopp. I'm amazed and inspired by ur determination and dedication. ur rehab training looks more intense than my training right now. good luck and speedy recovery, buddy

[NickAus]

Tank, whats your main rowing movement you use?

Cheers!!

[Mark!]

Solid work Brian, doing some great things.

[Brian Hopper]

Hitting the sessions in a big way Brian! Sorry if you have mentioned it but how has your BW faired during this phase of rehab?
Thanks alot bro!!! Since i've been back training, I have put back on the weight that I lost.


Inspiring watching you hard at training again mate. Amazing stuff!
Thanks Gazzy!!!


Good work man, looking forward to the update! Enjoy Miami! You are a motivator to us all Brian, keep it up!
Thanks HJP!!! We had alot of fun, I haven't been down there in a very long time.


great job Hopp. I'm amazed and inspired by ur determination and dedication. ur rehab training looks more intense than my training right now. good luck and speedy recovery, buddy
Thanks alot Tim, I appreciate it bro!!!


Tank, whats your main rowing movement you use?

Cheers!!
I would probably say CSR right now. I haven't done reverse grip barbell rows in awhile but I like those as well.


Solid work Brian, doing some great things.
Thanks Mark!!!

[NickAus]

Thanks.........we only have a copy of the H.S CSR......its ok but not the same as a true plate loaded CSR.

[Brian Hopper]

Thanks.........we only have a copy of the H.S CSR......its ok but not the same as a true plate loaded CSR.

I'm not sure what kind ours is, but it is plate loaded. I really like it alot, it seems to hit my back pretty good.

[john o]

What are the new exercises your buddy has you doing?

[Brian C]

I'm not sure what kind ours is, but it is plate loaded. I really like it alot, it seems to hit my back pretty good.

I love CSRs too. Probably my favorite back exercise. Keeps you strict and really hits the back

[ThomasG]

I'll have to try those chaos curls.

[NickAus]

Yeah my best ever upperback movement is where you lie down on the bench and row the bar up (cambered type bar) this kills the whole upperback.

My gym now does not have one........pretty old school piece of equipment.

Next best is the plate loaded CSR.

[LuNa]

Yeah my best ever upperback movement is where you lie down on the bench and row the bar up (cambered type bar) this kills the whole upperback.

My gym now does not have one........pretty old school piece of equipment.

Next best is the plate loaded CSR.

My old gym in Australia had one, looked very solid. Hard to cheat on that as well.

[Kiff]

Dude you have some great work going on in here!

[Mark!]

I love me some rows while on the bench, feels awesome. Doing some solid work Brian, as usual.

[Coke]

Wouldn't mind trading forearms would you? - lol...pic with you and your partner from Orlando shows me I got a lot of work to do on mine, but I'd never catch up with yours.

[Brian Hopper]

What are the new exercises your buddy has you doing?
I don't have the list on me right now, i'll post them up as soon as I can.


I love CSRs too. Probably my favorite back exercise. Keeps you strict and really hits the back
That's what I like about them. I really feel them in my back more then anything else.


I'll have to try those chaos curls.
You should, they are pretty fun.


Yeah my best ever upperback movement is where you lie down on the bench and row the bar up (cambered type bar) this kills the whole upperback.

My gym now does not have one........pretty old school piece of equipment.

Next best is the plate loaded CSR.
I've done those type of rows before, and I like those as well.


Dude you have some great work going on in here!
Thanks alot Kiff!!!


I love me some rows while on the bench, feels awesome. Doing some solid work Brian, as usual.
Thanks alot Mark!!!!


Wouldn't mind trading forearms would you? - lol...pic with you and your partner from Orlando shows me I got a lot of work to do on mine, but I'd never catch up with yours.
Thanks Coke, I appreciate that seeing how I haven't done any forearm work in 4 weeks....unless you were talking about my sleeve...lol.

[Brian Hopper]

Update:

I'm sorry guys that I haven't done an update sooner, but since i've been back to work it's been a little hard to get on online. So here we go:

-This past Thursday put me at 6 weeks post-op and i'm finally done with my knee brace. :clap:

-I also saw my PT and the doctor on Friday and both said that i'm doing fine, but they would like to see my extension better. I am bending my knee about 131 degrees and i'm about 7-8 degrees away from my good knee.

-I woke up Friday morning at 245.8, so I finally put back on the weight that I lost.

-My training has been going pretty good, i'm still not rushing into things. I'll probably do some SLDL tomorrow and see how it goes. It's hard to get in and train and try to do my rehab work in the same day, because my rehab will take me at least 45-60 minutes.

*************************************************

If you guys are in the Central Florida area and need some therapy done, go see my boy Justin Cobb-MPT, ATC/LAT, CSCS at "New Dimensions Wellness & Education, Inc.". His credentials are: Physical Therapist, Athletic Trainer, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, and N.E.T-Nuero Emotional Technique. Specializing in human motion analysis and integrating traditional and alternative healing techniques to accelerate recovery and enhance performance. He has worked with professionals from the NBA, PGA, AFL, WWA, IWSF, NCAA, and more. He is located in Orlando and his email address is NDwellness@yahoo.com.

[Off Road]

Sounds like it's going well, which is great news. It will be great to see you doing the SLDLs again.

[Brian Hopper]

Sounds like it's going well, which is great news. It will be great to see you doing the SLDLs again.

It is and i'm feeling good and i'm seeing improvements....just one day at a time :)

[john o]

Right where you need to be Brian. Rehab is indeed time consuming, but that needs to come first. Great report.

[HJP]

Update is positive!! Keep the rehab going Brian an in the long run you'll be better for it!

Your commitment is awesome

[Brian Hopper]

Right where you need to be Brian. Rehab is indeed time consuming, but that needs to come first. Great report.
Your right, my rehab does need to come first. I'm thinking about changing up my routine so I can just focus on my rehab. I'll still find time to train, but I really need to just focus on my getting my knee better.


Update is positive!! Keep the rehab going Brian an in the long run you'll be better for it!

Your commitment is awesome
Thanks alot bro, I appreciate it!!!

[Brian Hopper]

Monday
06-20-11
Back & Rehab

SLDL off a 2" platform
135x10
185x8
185x8
185x8

Widegrip pulldowns
100x10
120x10
140x10

Single arm cable rows
40x10
50x10
50x10

Shrugs
I had the bar set below my knee, so I pretty much did a rack pull and then my shrugs
135x10
225x10
315x10....I started to get scared because of the pressure so I lowered the weight
225x10

Finished off with my rehab....

Notes:
It was a long day yesterday, so I was a little tired today and it showed. I really didn't have any drive but I got in and just did some back work and then hit my rehab. Hopefully tomorrow i'll have more energy. I'm going to do a couple rehab exercises tomorrow, pretty much what I didn't do today.

[Brian C]

Great to hear your doing so well. Things will start to move quick for you soon im sure!

[Brian Hopper]

Great to hear your doing so well. Things will start to move quick for you soon im sure!

Thanks alot BC, i'm sure they will too. I just need to be patient.

[Kiff]

Nice update! Happy for you!

[john o]

I admire your spirit Brian. I know you want to keep adding plates, it's who you are. The strength will come back quickly when the time is right. Great work as always!

[NickAus]

Great work............moving some solid weight considering bro!!

[HJP]

Solid back work!! Keep at it

[Brian Hopper]

Nice update! Happy for you!
Thanks Kiff!!!!


I admire your spirit Brian. I know you want to keep adding plates, it's who you are. The strength will come back quickly when the time is right. Great work as always!
Thanks John!!! Your right, I do want to keep adding plates...lol. But I know I can't right now.


Great work............moving some solid weight considering bro!!
Thanks Nick!!!


Solid back work!! Keep at it
Thanks alot bro!!!

[Brian Hopper]

Tuesday
06-21-11
ME-Upper

Floor presses with a fat bar
BARx10
165x5
165x5
195x5
255x5
255x5
255x5
165x20

Incline DB presses
60x10
70x10
70x10

Straight arm pulldowns
50x10
50x10
50x10

Nosebreakers with a fat bar
75x10
95x10
115x10
135x10

Push-ups
BWx10
BWx10
BWx10

[Coke]

Appear to be making strides while not pushing things too far during this recovering phase, glad to hear it man.

[Brian Hopper]

Appear to be making strides while not pushing things too far during this recovering phase, glad to hear it man.

Just taking it one day at a time.

[john o]

Nice job Brian!

[Kiff]

Good work, am I missing something with your ME? Is that suppose to have a 1rm attempt somewhere?

[Off Road]

Good one Brian. Really getting back in the swing.

[covpride]

Glad to hear the rehab is going good man. Just keep it up and that knee will be as good as new. Rest of the training is looking solid as well, KEEP IT UP!

[Brian Hopper]

Nice job Brian!

Thanks John!!!

[Brian Hopper]

Good work, am I missing something with your ME? Is that suppose to have a 1rm attempt somewhere?

Thanks Kiff!!!! Not really, you can do 3RM or 5RM. You don't always have to do a 1RM, change it up. I'm in no shape to even attempt a single right now, lol.

[Brian Hopper]

Good one Brian. Really getting back in the swing.

Thanks alot OR, I'm slowly getting back into it. It's amazing how heavy that 255 felt in my hands. That and when I did the SLDL with 185, lol I thought I was going to break.

[Brian Hopper]

Glad to hear the rehab is going good man. Just keep it up and that knee will be as good as new. Rest of the training is looking solid as well, KEEP IT UP!

Thanks bro, I appreciate it.

[NickAus]

I will bet $500 you will beat your old total, right now with anyone.

Just a hiccup...

[Kiff]

Thanks Kiff!!!! Not really, you can do 3RM or 5RM. You don't always have to do a 1RM, change it up. I'm in no shape to even attempt a single right now, lol.

:-) cool! I also agree with nickaus

[Brian Hopper]

I will bet $500 you will beat your old total, right now with anyone.

Just a hiccup...


:-) cool! I also agree with nickaus

It shall be done!!!!

[Lones Green]

Glad to see you back on the horse, Brian!

[GazzyG]

Always onwards and upwards. Great stuff.

[Brian Hopper]

Glad to see you back on the horse, Brian!


Always onwards and upwards. Great stuff.

Thanks guys!!!

[LuNa]

I will bet $500 you will beat your old total, right now with anyone.

Just a hiccup...

I dont think anyone will be willing to take that bet with Brian getting back at it :p.

Nice work Brian, impressive to see you back at it.

[Brian C]

Love seeing you getting in some quality work, great session Bri!

[Brian Hopper]

I dont think anyone will be willing to take that bet with Brian getting back at it :p.

Nice work Brian, impressive to see you back at it.

Thanks alot Luna, it depends on the time frame I guess. But I did start squatting today :)


Love seeing you getting in some quality work, great session Bri!

Thanks BC!!!!

[Off Road]

Squatting today???
That is good news.

[Brian Hopper]

Wednesday
06-22-11
SQ-Rehab

First day squatting since the surgery!!!!


Warm-up
Bike-10 minutes

15" box Squats
BARx10
65x10
85x10
105x10
115x10
135x10

Leg presses on the "Green Machine"
135x10
225x10
315x10
315x10
135x10....Single leg

Lunges
10lbs each hand for 10 reps
15lbs each hand for 10 reps

Seated leg curls
50x10
70x10
70x10

Step-ups on a 13" box
BWx20
BWx20

Hamstring rollouts
2x10

Notes:
Today was my first day under a bar, and it felt pretty weird. The box is pretty much a perfect height. I will work this height for a while until I feel comfortable going a little deeper.

[Brian Hopper]

Squatting today???
That is good news.

Yes sir :strong:

[Off Road]

Was it scary?

[covpride]

Hell yeah!!! That's awesome man, great work for real! Seriously stoked for you.

[Brian Hopper]

Was it scary?
Yeah, only towards the end for some reason. We'll see how it feels next week.


Hell yeah!!! That's awesome man, great work for real! Seriously stoked for you.Thanks alot!!!

[HJP]

Squats!!! Awesome!!!! Shot mate. Let us know how the leg feels the next day

[NickAus]

Holy crap squatting NOW?

Well done big man!!

[GazzyG]

Amazing stuff, mate! Can't believe how quickly you're rehabbing that injury.

[-JM-]

Not hanging about Hopp. Inspirational progress. Sickener for anyone who was trying to catch up with you whilst you were on the mend :) Back to PR territory in no time, big dawg.

[Brian Hopper]

Squats!!! Awesome!!!! Shot mate. Let us know how the leg feels the next dayThanks, it's feeling ok. A little swollen, but little to no pain. Just feels like it has been feeling, lol.


Holy crap squatting NOW?

Well done big man!!
Thanks Nick!!!


Amazing stuff, mate! Can't believe how quickly you're rehabbing that injury.Thanks Gazzy, I didn't think I was going to start this early. But box squats are probably a safer way to squat for me right now.


Not hanging about Hopp. Inspirational progress. Sickener for anyone who was trying to catch up with you whilst you were on the mend :) Back to PR territory in no time, big dawg.Thanks Justin. It might be awhile before I PR but after yesterday, I look at it like this; I am only 490lbs aways from the last heavy weight I squatted :)

[Brian C]

This is great news! Very impressed with your rehab so far. Was there any pain at all?

[Brian Hopper]

This is great news! Very impressed with your rehab so far. Was there any pain at all?

Thanks B, I really didn't feel that much pain. At least nothing serious I think, lol. I'll try again next week and see how it goes.

[Coke]

Glad to see you back to the squats so soon,..whole effort rocks, this is where we really begin to watch you build it back up!!

[john o]

I saw squats and thought I was in the wrong journal. That's not a joke either. You are making this look easy and anyone who has been through it knows better. The strongest find a way! Nick is right. In due time you will be stronger than before.

[Brian Hopper]

Glad to see you back to the squats so soon,..whole effort rocks, this is where we really begin to watch you build it back up!!

Thanks Coke!!! Yes sir, I feel like this week is where my training starts. We'll see in the upcoming weeks how it goes.

[Brian Hopper]

I saw squats and thought I was in the wrong journal. That's not a joke either. You are making this look easy and anyone who has been through it knows better. The strongest find a way! Nick is right. In due time you will be stronger than before.

Nope, your in the right journal :) One week at a time. Thanks for the support John!!!!

[Brian Hopper]

Friday
06-24-11
Upper accessory

Close grip bench press
BARx10
95x8
135x5
155x5
175x5
195x5
215x5
215x5
215x5

Upright rows
95x10
115x10
115x10

Barbell curls
65x10
85x10
85x10

Schwabs(JM press using a smith machine)
110x10
160x10
160x10

Hammer curls
40x10
50x10

Shrugs on the smith machine
110x10
200x10
250x10
250x10

**************************************************

Knee Rehab

-Front and side lunges
2x8

-Tri-plane squats
2x8

-Sumo squats
50x10
60x10
70x10

-Step ups
13" box-2x20

-Walking hamstring stretch walk
2x10 yards

[LuNa]

Amazing that you are already doing light squats. Very happy for you that the rehab is going this wel. Keep it up Brian!

[Brian Hopper]

Amazing that you are already doing light squats. Very happy for you that the rehab is going this wel. Keep it up Brian!

Thanks alot bro!!!!

[Tim K]

Squatting already? Very cool!

[Brian Hopper]

Squatting already? Very cool!

Yes sir, lol :)

[HJP]

Awesome work! Loving that you are getting your squat on! Knee is coming back super fast! Its great to see

[Mark!]

Solid work man, making good strides. Good to see you under the bar again.

[NickAus]

Nice work!!

[Coke]

Gonna be due for a week off from everything, except maybe some rehab work in about a month or so - just a thought. This way you will come back at it almost shocked, like nothing ever happened.

Really like what I'm seeing, can't beat the way you are facing the challenge Brian.

[CHASE TRUSNOVEC]

brian so happy to see you back under the bar brotha!!! Hope and pray for a speedy recovery!! God Bless!!

[Brian Hopper]

Awesome work! Loving that you are getting your squat on! Knee is coming back super fast! Its great to see
Thanks buddy!!!


Solid work man, making good strides. Good to see you under the bar again.Thanks Mark, it felt good to squat again.


Nice work!!
Thanks Nick!!!


Gonna be due for a week off from everything, except maybe some rehab work in about a month or so - just a thought. This way you will come back at it almost shocked, like nothing ever happened.

Really like what I'm seeing, can't beat the way you are facing the challenge Brian.
That probably won't be a bad idea. I'll give that some thought in a few weeks and see where im at. Thanks for the support Terry!!!


brian so happy to see you back under the bar brotha!!! Hope and pray for a speedy recovery!! God Bless!!
Thanks alot Chase, I appreciate it!!!!

[jkstrength]

Stoked to see your progress man. Keep it up!

[Kiff]

Solid Acc day mate. Well done.

[Brian Hopper]

Stoked to see your progress man. Keep it up!

Thanks!!!

[Brian Hopper]

Solid Acc day mate. Well done.

Thanks Kiff!!!

[Mark!]

Sup curl jockey, how you feeling?

[muscle_g]

Nice work Brian!! How far is the knee from being 100%?

[lil' power]

Wow, rehab going well I see! You're giving me some positive motivation now! Shoulder surgery in 4 days...

[Brian Hopper]

Sup curl jockey, how you feeling?
Not bad, I still a some scar tissue built up that gives me problems. But other then that I feel ok


Nice work Brian!! How far is the knee from being 100%?
Thanks. I'm not sure yet, I do feel like I can do more things now. But I still think I have ways to go.


Wow, rehab going well I see! You're giving me some positive motivation now! Shoulder surgery in 4 days...
Thanks alot and Good luck with your surgery!!!

[NickAus]

Hows the BW Tank?

[barryisawinnah]

Coming along nicely.

Hey Brian, what's the name of that gym again? I'll be home in Sarasota at the end of July for like 9 days, it might be worth it for me to make it up there to at least get a little strongman event work in.

[Brian Hopper]

Hows the BW Tank?

Not bad actually, I've been steady sitting at 245.

[Brian Hopper]

Coming along nicely.

Hey Brian, what's the name of that gym again? I'll be home in Sarasota at the end of July for like 9 days, it might be worth it for me to make it up there to at least get a little strongman event work in.

It's "Deb's Gym" and they have pretty much everything you need for strongman and powerlifting.

[Brian C]

Looking good brother!

[barryisawinnah]

It's "Deb's Gym" and they have pretty much everything you need for strongman and powerlifting.

Thanks, I couldn't remember the name.

It's a bit of a trek for me, but I will be out of town for 4 weekends in a row, so I need to hit some type of event stuff.

[john o]

Nice workout Brian! Each week is one week closer.

[Brian Hopper]

Looking good brother!
Thanks B!!!


Thanks, I couldn't remember the name.

It's a bit of a trek for me, but I will be out of town for 4 weekends in a row, so I need to hit some type of event stuff.
You should really try and make it over my way to train. You'll love the gym!!!


Nice workout Brian! Each week is one week closer.
Thanks alot John!!!

[Brian Hopper]

Wednesday
06-29-11
SQ&DL

15" box squats w/ the mastadon bar
BARx10
110x10
150x10
180x10
200x10

Deadlifts
225x6
225x6
225x6

Single legged leg presses on the "Green Machine"
135x10
135x10
135x10

Notes:
That was pretty much it, I was a little short on time and I just wanted to get in and out. But not a bad day, I went up alot more in weight this week compared to last week. Not to mention that today was pretty much the first day I did a regular deadlift. I will probably work with this weight for the next couple weeks. I still have some scar tissue that keeps bothering me, so im thinking about going to a MT to have them rub it out. I have a TENS unit, but 2 out of the 4 pads broke so it doesn't work that good.

I will try and get to some logs in a few minutes. This week is a pretty busy week for me so sorry for the delay.

[joey54]

Good to be back after it again.

[Off Road]

Making big strides Brian.

[HJP]

Awesome to have you squatting and deadlifting! Good stuff

[NickAus]

Cant imagine pulling anything after a knee op............you da man!!

[Brian C]

Awesome to see some squats and deadlifts going on! Great stuff B!

[LuNa]

Cant believe how quick you are back to squats and pulls. Great stuff Brian!

[Coke]

Showing great human spirit and building even further character - luv it.

[t gale]

Great to see you squatting. How's the knee feeling couple days after?

[Brian Hopper]

Good to be back after it again.
It feels good brother, i'll tell you that much!!!!!


Making big strides Brian.
Thanks OR!!!!


Awesome to have you squatting and deadlifting! Good stuff
Thanks HJP, the pulls felt pretty good.


Cant imagine pulling anything after a knee op............you da man!!
It was a little scary, but I didn't feel unstable like I did a few weeks ago.


Awesome to see some squats and deadlifts going on! Great stuff B!
You'll be seeing more.......just maybe not more weight :(


Cant believe how quick you are back to squats and pulls. Great stuff Brian!
Me too, but they are feeling pretty good. I still need to be careful though.


Showing great human spirit and building even further character - luv it.
Thanks Terry!!!


Great to see you squatting. How's the knee feeling couple days after?
Thanks Tim, it doesn't feel that bad. It feels more stiff then anything. It does get a little swollen afterwards, but no sharp pains.

[jkstrength]

Great to see you deadlifting again Brian!

[ThomasG]

Say what?!? Squatting and deadlifting already that's amazing! That great to see you'll be setting pr's again in no time.

[john o]

Great work Brian! 15" inch squats is a decent ROM already.

[NickAus]

That's as low as you need really isn't it......parallel.

[Tim K]

Remember those bodyweight half squats you were doing not too long ago? They are now a thing of the past! Great work Brian!

[Brian Hopper]

Great to see you deadlifting again Brian!

Thanks bro!!!

[Brian Hopper]

Say what?!? Squatting and deadlifting already that's amazing! That great to see you'll be setting pr's again in no time.
Yep, taking it slow and hopefully some PR's will follow up.


Great work Brian! 15" inch squats is a decent ROM already.
It's not bad, once I feel comfortable I'm going to take it down an inch.


That's as low as you need really isn't it......parallel.
I usually start at 15" and work down to 13". It might be a tad high, but it's not that bad.


Remember those bodyweight half squats you were doing not too long ago? They are now a thing of the past! Great work Brian!
Thanks Tim!!!! Tell me about it, it feels good to stop doing BW squats and finally get under a bar.

[Brian Hopper]

Thursday
06-30-11
Back

Sorry I'm just now logging this workout, I hope I can remember what I did.

Pulldowns
100x10
130x10
160x10
190x6
190x6
130x10

Reverse grip barbell rows
135x10
185x8
185x8

Chuck V rows
3x10

Barbell Shrugs
135x10
225x10
315x10
315x10
315x10

DB shrugs
85x20
85x20

Notes:
I can't believe I forgot to log this session, lol. Oh well, I didn't do much last week but hopefully I'll be able to get in some work this week. I've been pretty busy at work so I apologize for not getting to everyone's log. I'll try and get to some tonight.

[borracho]

Awesome to see Squats and deads Brian! Hope the spirits are up bud!

[Off Road]

Good to see you getting in there regularly.

[Mark!]

Solid work Brian, looking good man.

[GazzyG]

Keep it up bud!

[HJP]

Awesome stuff!! Back is looking strong

[Kiff]

That is some nice back work Brian

[joey54]

Getting BACK into it. Nice!

[ThomasG]

Sold session I<3 chuck v rows. This reminds me I need to start doing them again.

[Brian Hopper]

Awesome to see Squats and deads Brian! Hope the spirits are up bud!


Good to see you getting in there regularly.


Solid work Brian, looking good man.


Keep it up bud!


Awesome stuff!! Back is looking strong


That is some nice back work Brian


Getting BACK into it. Nice!


Sold session I<3 chuck v rows. This reminds me I need to start doing them again.

Thanks alot guys, I appreciate it!!!!!

[john o]

Nice work Brian!

[NickAus]

Great back work Tank!!

[Coke]

Back & trap work is nice, keeping in stride.

[covpride]

Training is looking great dude, so Stoked to see you squatting and pulling already! Keep it up!

[Brian Hopper]

Nice work Brian!


Great back work Tank!!


Back & trap work is nice, keeping in stride.


Training is looking great dude, so Stoked to see you squatting and pulling already! Keep it up!

Thanks alot guys. I really haven't been motivated to train since i've been working on days. But the good thing is, I'll be going back on my normal nightshift schedule starting Saturday.................but.................I go on vacation for two weeks on Tuesday so I won't be doing NOTHING but some site seeing :)

So pretty much the entire month of July is going to be a crappy month for training. But After my vacation I'm going to get focused again and try and get ready for a meet. I would like to shirt up, but I don't think I have the leg strength for the drive. So i'll more then likely take a token squat and deadlift and then bench a PR.

I do plan on hitting the gym tomorrow and getting some squat work in and some rehab. I'll probably go in Thursday also and do some bench work.

[Off Road]

Shoot. Take your time and enjoy yourself.

[Brian C]

As soon as the meet is over Saturday, im driving right to the Jersey shore for 2 weeks, so the rest of July will be crappy for me too. Gonna get my fist pump and drink on haha.

[Brian Hopper]

Shoot. Take your time and enjoy yourself.
I sure will, I'm looking forward to the extra time off...lol.


As soon as the meet is over Saturday, im driving right to the Jersey shore for 2 weeks, so the rest of July will be crappy for me too. Gonna get my fist pump and drink on haha.
Hell yeah, are you going to party with Snookie and Pauly D???

[Brian Hopper]

Wednesday
07-06-11
SQ-Rehab

Warm-up
Bike x 10minutes

Box squats with the SSB
15.5" box
BARx20
110x10
150x10
180x10
200x10
200x10
14.5" box
200x10....VIDEO

GM's with the SSB
BARx10
100x10
120x10

Leg press machine
One leg at a time
88x10
96x10
96x10
102x10

.....Finished off with some rehab work.

Notes:
Wow, I can't believe how weak my lower back has gotten. The SSB really exposed it, and it felt like it was going to frog up. So now I need to really focus on my lower back. But other then that, not a bad day. Hopefully i'll be able to hit the gym tomorrow and do some bench work or something. Today was my last day on this shift, so I should be back on track. But like I said, i'll be leaving on vacation next week so for two weeks i'm not doing anything:)

EDIT:
I do step-ups for my rehab, and before I was using just my BW......well today I did step-ups on a 13" box with a 45lb bar on my back :).........................and with no pain.......................:clap:

[Brian Hopper]

TTgAYTVLNqo

[Brian C]

Oh hell yeah bro:clap::clap::clap: Only 900lbs to go! haha Really great to see this going on. Any updates to B-Hopp Barbell?

[Brian Hopper]

Oh hell yeah bro:clap::clap::clap: Only 900lbs to go! haha Really great to see this going on. Any updates to B-Hopp Barbell?

Thanks alot, lol. I really haven't messed aound out there since I've been back at work. Then I went to a different shift and really wasn't motivated to do anything. But it's still going down, it's just going to take awhile.

[Off Road]

Great video, and good to see you squatting. Slowly but surely you'll get it all back. No doubt.

[Coke]

i'll be leaving on vacation next week so for two weeks i'm not doing anything

Great timing, probably the best route to take for now....gives the body a moment to let it do it's own thing without intervention on your part, then you can get back to it after the vacation.

[john o]

Great way to go into a vacation. Enjoy!

[Brian Hopper]

Great video, and good to see you squatting. Slowly but surely you'll get it all back. No doubt.


Great timing, probably the best route to take for now....gives the body a moment to let it do it's own thing without intervention on your part, then you can get back to it after the vacation.


Great way to go into a vacation. Enjoy!

Thanks guys for the support. I'm really looking forward to enjoying this vacation. We are going to D.C. and then to New York. The only thing I'll be doing is taking care of my knee.

[t gale]

he man nice to see u squatting. enjoy ur vacation!

[Brian Hopper]

he man nice to see u squatting. enjoy ur vacation!

Thanks alot Tim!!!

[covpride]

Awesome Squats, stoked for you man! Great work so far, have no doubt you'll keep improving!

[Brian Hopper]

Awesome Squats, stoked for you man! Great work so far, have no doubt you'll keep improving!

Thanks alot bro, I appreciate it!!!!

[Barbaccio]

Simply amazing to see you back to squatting only 2 months after surgery! Incredible work B. While you're up this way you should have made a pit stop in Philly to visit!

[NickAus]

Just re-watched your vid.........great stuff Tank!!

[Brian C]

Simply amazing to see you back to squatting only 2 months after surgery! Incredible work B. While you're up this way you should have made a pit stop in Philly to visit!

Iront Sport is 2 minutes off 95! :)

[Tim K]

In many ways this video is more impressive than your 1030 squat. Two months post op and you're hitting reps on squats. That is serious determination!

[Brian Hopper]

Simply amazing to see you back to squatting only 2 months after surgery! Incredible work B. While you're up this way you should have made a pit stop in Philly to visit!
Thanks alot Tone!!! I've already been talking to the wife and telling her that when my knee gets better and I start squatting in gear again, I would like to make a trip up there to train with you guys.


Just re-watched your vid.........great stuff Tank!!
Thanks Nick!!!


Iront Sport is 2 minutes off 95! :)
Next time brother!!! I wouldn't mind doing one of the meets that they put on over there.


In many ways this video is more impressive than your 1030 squat. Two months post op and you're hitting reps on squats. That is serious determination!
Thanks alot Tim.

[CHASE TRUSNOVEC]

so happy to see you back under the bar brotha!!! My eyes got wide when you mentioned those 13" step ups with 45 on your back...you are recovering crazy fast!!!

[Kiff]

Awesome to be back squatting already knew you wouldnt take long

[Brian Hopper]

so happy to see you back under the bar brotha!!! My eyes got wide when you mentioned those 13" step ups with 45 on your back...you are recovering crazy fast!!!

Thanks Chase. Yeah, I don't know what made me throw the bar on my back., lol. But I didn't feel any pain at all, so next time i'll do it again.

[Brian Hopper]

Awesome to be back squatting already knew you wouldnt take long

Thanks Kiff.

[HJP]

Reps on the Squats!! That is impressive

Keep at this recovery, it's happening fast!

[LuNa]

Im really excited to see you squatting this quick Brian, amazing! Enjoy your holiday!

[Brian Hopper]

Reps on the Squats!! That is impressive

Keep at this recovery, it's happening fast!
Thanks brother!!!


Im really excited to see you squatting this quick Brian, amazing! Enjoy your holiday!Thanks Luna!!!

[ThomasG]

Amazing progress Brian!

[borracho]

Inspirational to see you hitting the weights like this already Brain...keep up the work bro!

[Brian Hopper]

Amazing progress Brian!
Thanks TG!!!


Inspirational to see you hitting the weights like this already Brain...keep up the work bro!
Thanks!!!

[NickAus]

Inspirational alright!!

[Brian Hopper]

Inspirational alright!!

Thanks buddy!!!

[t gale]

Hey Hopp glad to see u doing well. won't be long to ur squatting 1000 again. also glad to see u thinking about stopping by and training with us. I'm sure it would make for an awesome day.

[joey54]

Interesting that you are heading north for vacation. I would have headed for the islands from Florida, but hey just have a good time!

[Mark!]

Glad to see things back in order Brian, doing some good solid work, nice and easy man.

[john o]

How are things going big fella?

[Off Road]

Just checking in for a report. Vacation? Training? Rehab?

[Brian Hopper]

Sorry guys, I thought I was going to be able to keep up but we were pretty busy. I just got home from my vacation about an hour ago and i'm sure glad to be back. Don't get me wrong, I had a blast and I would love to go back.....but there's nothing like coming home. We arrived in Arlington, VA. early Wednesday morning and pretty much just dropped off our luggage and went straight to D.C. and it was pretty much nonstop from there. I must say, those subways are a b***h, lol. We left Sunday for New York and that place was amazing. I think our hotel was just a 2-3 blocks from Time Square and about 6-7 blocks from Penn Station. Our first day there I saw some guy walking around with one of those new WSB t-shirts, and then later that night I saw Dan Dague from Lexen Xtreme walking down TS. Two days later I saw another guy rocking a WSB t-shirt, I was surrounded by powerlifters...lol. I think I took about 730 pictures between DC and NY. But I am pumped to get back in the gym on Monday. I didn't really have any time to do any rehab, but I walked enough and walked up enough stairs to make up for it, lol. I a little worried about my knee because I still have some pain when I bend it. But it's on Monday, I need to step it up and get serious again now that my vacation is over.

[Off Road]

Glad you enjoyed the time away. Sounds like it was a great time.

[Coke]

No place like the Big Apple, whole vacation sounded awesome - glad you got the chance to get away and leave it all behind, and that includes the rehab. This is just what you needed imo.

[HJP]

Sounds like a good break!! Gotta enjoy it when your there! I agree though, no place like home :)

[Kiff]

Sounds like a great time, nothing like coming home tho.

[Brian C]

Even though I hate NY(anything sports related) its a great place to visit. Always somethng to do at any time of the day. Glad you had a good time.

[NickAus]

Sounds awesome bro!!

[john o]

Welcome back Brian!

[MarcusWild]

Sounds like a great vacation. Now you need a vacation to recover from it! That's awesome you were able to do all that walking though.

[Brian Hopper]

Glad you enjoyed the time away. Sounds like it was a great time.

Thanks OR, we sure did. It was a blast.

[Brian Hopper]

No place like the Big Apple, whole vacation sounded awesome - glad you got the chance to get away and leave it all behind, and that includes the rehab. This is just what you needed imo.

You're right, I think this is exactly what I needed.

[Brian Hopper]

Sounds like a good break!! Gotta enjoy it when your there! I agree though, no place like home :)

You got that right, it felt so good to hop in my own bed, lol.

[Brian Hopper]

Sounds like a great time, nothing like coming home tho.

We did Kiff, we really enjoyed it and we have lots of pictures to prove it, lol.

[Brian Hopper]

Even though I hate NY(anything sports related) its a great place to visit. Always somethng to do at any time of the day. Glad you had a good time.
So far it's my favorite, lol. I would love to go back.


Sounds awesome bro!!
Thanks Nick.


Welcome back Brian!
Thanks John.


Sounds like a great vacation. Now you need a vacation to recover from it! That's awesome you were able to do all that walking though.
Thanks Marcus. I had about 2 days off when we got back before I went back to work. I'm a little wore out though, lol.

[Brian Hopper]

Monday
07-25-11
DL-Rehab

Deadlift
135x10
135x10
225x8
225x5
315x5
315x5

Reverse hyper
140x10
230x10
230x10

Shrugs
135x10
225x10
275x15
275x15
225x25

Decline sit-ups
BWx10
BWx10

[Coke]

Way to resume the training, looking to see you leapfrog over shit at some point, lol.

[HJP]

Nice DL work!! Your doing mint!!