For maximum gains in general whole body strength and mass, there really is no substitute for squats or deadlifts. The sheer amount of weight that you can shift with proper technique in both requires tremendous CNS resource. Yes, you were looking for alternatives, but we really have done the best thing to kick your ass and ask you to fix these lifts first. Once you do and your numbers start climbing and you start seeing results, you'll be glad you stuck with it. Another thing. No disrespect to people who are personal trainers, but I have seen trainers demonstrate lack of knowledge or experience when it comes to the deadlift. Get a camera and vid yourself. If not to show us, to see for yourself. Great educating tool. Once you playback and see what you are doing wrong, you can associate it with how you felt during the lift. Ditto for doing things right.

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Height 5'7 Reach approx 7'0
BW @ 23 Jul 08: 145lbs (>13%bf)
Re-training start: Jul 08 (post injury+3 mths rehab)

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