Another strong, solid cycle. I went for 445 lbs. as my big bench press attempt and nailed it. 450 lbs. might have been in the cards - I'll try that next time. Training was good overall and my aches and pains seem to be getting better.
I did a bit of research on powerlifting shoes and settled on the Radix Pro model by Notorious Lift. They promise "a precision flat training shoe built for complete workout versatility. Squat, bench, deadlift, dynamic training, and more." Not sure about the more, but the shoes work just fine on the big three lifts. The sole is very thin, it's almost like lifting barefoot. Stable and comfortable during squats (front and back) and pulls, and the extra sole grip does help the bench press a little. Plus they are super light and would be great for workouts on the road. They just look like regular shoes, a bit wider.
Squats (in the Radix Pros) went smoothly. Maybe I should have added another few pounds to the bar, but I'm happy keeping the weight at this level. I felt cocky and tried 615 lbs. on the deadlift, which went nowhere. Didn't think I'd manage 600 lbs. after that attempt, but I did.
I managed to grind out a surprisingly difficult front squat single with 460 lbs. It felt a lot harder than my previous effort with 455. But I still get to claim a PR, the only one this cycle.
Squat 505-550-615 lbs. x 1
Front squat 405-460 lbs. x 1 (PR)
Overhead press standing 250 lbs. x 1, seated 315 lbs. x 1
Deadlift 600 lbs. x 1
Bench press 445 lbs. x 1, 405 lbs. x 5
20 consecutive pullups
Bodyweight has crept up to 215-217 lbs. this week.