Q for Coach Sommer: Body weight gain & planche progress?

[Martin]

Just posted a Q about the planche...On a different but related topic,

I read that Coach Sommer tries to minimize weight gain in his trainees for the sake of strength in gymnastic movements.

However, I noticed that when I lost muscle (seemingly temporarily) for a week or 2, my progress in the planche also suffered.

Since then, having gained in the bench press and also gained back 3-4 pounds of muscle, my planche is improving again.

Is there a cut-off point where muscle starts to impair the planche? Is it a personal matter, i.e. certain individuals frames do better with more, others with less body mass? Is there a way to determine it or can I only try it out and see what happens?

And regarding the sticky of time under load (TUL) in the static holds, how to cycle strength-volume TUL? How many days of the week should i focus on easier holds for more seconds, and how often should I do the most difficult holds for fewer seconds?

Martin

[Guest marktb68]

Martin,

Here's my thoughts. I am 6'0 193 lbs and my planche has improved since gaining weight(muscle). Personally, I think there's a cut-off FOR GYMNASTICS but for the lay-person, I don't think there's a huge worry.

Mark Baldwin

[Martin]

Thanks Mark!

That's what I'm experiencing right now...obviously, I'm going to be lifting more weight, but with bigger muscles...I suppose it's what those muscles are built up with: heavy reps or "pump" reps...(i.e. sarcoplasmic vs myofibrillar).

When I was 20, I was into bodybuilding, and after gaining 45lbs on my frame I still was able to do Chins with 66lbs for 3 reps on a belt. I don't have that weight on my frame anymore, and am also 8 years older. Not that I want to gain that much anymore, but a few more pounds might look better on me.

I guess I will see if the planche will suffer from adding a few pounds. If it does, I will not pursue weight gain but weight maintenance and getting that planche!

Martin