Athlete Journal: Chris Duffin, Entry 29 – Time to Deload

Time to begin my deload leading up to the meet on Dec 1st. I've figured out a very effective peaking strategy, particularly given my current recovery needs.

Written by Chris Duffin Last updated on Oct 25, 2022

EDITOR’S NOTE: Welcome to the Athlete Journal of world champion powerlifter Chris Duffin. Follow Chris as he trains and competes in various events over the coming year. Chris’s journal will be posted every Tuesday. You can also read about Chris on his personal website KabukiWarrior.com.

Athlete Journal, Entry 29 – Time to Deload

Time to begin deloading leading up to the meet on Dec 1st. Really I started a week prior, but now I’m picking up the pace of dropping out taxing activity. Transitioned a lot of accessory work over to utilizing the sled to generate blood flow but allow quick recover, and dropped all heavy lifting except a moderate bench press on Monday.

My hammy and adductor have flared up ever since I had that miss with an 804 squat a week ago. I am hesitant about being able to pull it together for the meet on the Dec 1st^,but going to give it a shot.

This may not be exciting stuff below but it is a very effective peaking strategy, particularly given my current recovery needs.

MONDAY

Bench Press

135×10

225×5

315×5

405×1

460×1 (paused and also removed elbow sleeves)

460 Bench Press

460 Bench Press

Watch this video on YouTube

Sled Shoulder Press x 3 passes

Overhead Sled Tricep Extension x 3 passes

WEDNESDAY

Prowler x 3 passes

Sled Row x 4 passes

Sled Face Pull x 3 passes

Bodyweight Bulgarian Split Squats – 3 Sets

SATURDAY

Prowler x 3 passes

Bodyweight Glute Bridge – 5 sets

Bodyweight Bulgarian Split Squats – 3 Sets

Sled Row x 4 passes

Sled Chest press x 4 passes

About Chris Duffin

Chris is an accomplished powerlifter, coach, and gym owner. He is the world record holder for the raw squat in the 220lb class. He also holds a Guinness World Record for the most weight deadlifted in one minute at 17,010 pounds (42 reps of 405lbs). Chris Duffin is the head coach and co-owner of Elite Performance Center in Portland, Oregon.

Unlike many powerlifers and strength athletes, Chris is also enthralled with all things related to conditioning, nutrition, and supplementation. He is known for his detailed coaching and ability to provide immediate gains for his athletes.

It is not a surprise with Chris’s attention to detail and perfectionism that he is also an academic nerd with an engineering degree and a master's degree in business administration. Many of Chris’s coaching skills and high expectations that push people past their self-imposed limits have made him successful in the business world as well. To support the growth of his training facility, Chris’s full-time employment is as the general manager of an aerospace manufacturing company.

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