body building for bk

[stevezab]

I am just getting back into the game any tips would help

[brandon]

Greetings. I've been an left BKA since 2007, and I am an avid lifter and I'm a certified prosthetist.

Prosthesis set-up:
I recommend a foot with vertical load pylon and multi-axial properties. My favorite so far is the RUSH 87. This foot I'm able to squat with without feeling like my heel is raising. I prefer dual pin-lock and suction suspension with a coyote design air-lock with expulsion valve. Reason: I can remove sealing sleeve when lifting, I've ruined many sleeves when resting dumbells on legs and stress from leg press. The socket design should have good medial/lateral pressure above condyles for aided stability when lifting, this means the walls are a little higher moreso medial side. Ensure all your adapters/components are rated much higher then your actual weight. Your prosthetist can give you that info.

Regimen:
I have been able to perform most movements that I did before my amputation. Trouble movements are the complex ones like snatch lifts. Squats I would start out on smith machine until you feel comfortable, then transition to squat rack. Don't forget your guards. Deadlifts got rid of my deflated glut amputated side. Deadlifts can be tricky due to balance, just start light and slowly work up. Standing military the same. You'll learn hack squat and leg press are more comfortable for your leg. Leg extension are largely ineffective as well as hamstring curl, so stick to abovesaid leg movements. To strengthen my amputated I grab a 50lbs dumbell in my right hand and walk about 30 yards keeping my body erect, then switch hands and walk back and repeat, this is one set. I do 4-5 sets a couple times per week mostly in between lifts. This helped my hip abductors/adductors greatly. It's also a good oblec/ab/forearm/intercostal muscle movement.

If you have questions post again!