This thread is more or less my own realization about making progress in the gym. Most of us start out young and full of piss and vinegar. We watch others in the gym and figure that's the way to do it....maybe ask a few questions and there you have it.....we learn how to pick it up and put it down. Next......we start looking at magazines or (now anyway) go online for inspiration and knowledge. Me personally (prior to joining the forum) more or less did the same old routines over and over.. I trained hard but after awhile gained little. Once I was exposed to the forum I became refocused and soaked up whatever Marcus or Ronnie R had to offer. They both trained differently and I learned alot from both... the only downside is that I can't just go to the gym and train with them which still leaves me to coach myself. This is what makes progress difficult at times because you can't always step back and see yourself. Most of us tend to gravitate towards are favorite exercises......why? Because we are good at them. I now train at a gym where the owner has his CSCS and was an accomplished PL. I have him help me write up my routines and cycle them as well as criticize my form in an effort to maximize and perfect it. Having someone train you in BB or PL helps tremendously just as it does any athlete in any sport. If you aren't happy with your progress then look for the people who can help get you where you want to be, its worth the effort.