To answer your question about which routine to move into and when, I’d say wait until you are no longer making progress doing what you are doing. This could be two more weeks or three more months. You can try this “simple variation” next, if you like, and of course “Baby Got Back” is one of the tried and true staples in my rotation. http://builtblog.wikidbody.com/2007/06/11/baby-got-back/

In terms of energy, if you’re not already doing so, please track on http://www.fitday.com and give me some numbers. I need to know what your average intake is. You can read http://builtblog.wikidbody.com/2009/01/24/the-do-it-yourself-diet-comf ort-food-for-life/ here on my blog to see why I’m suggesting you track. You may simply need a few more calories, or more fat. Or even – gasp! – some targeted carbs around your workout. http://builtblog.wikidbody.com/2007/08/06/how-to-set-up-a-diet-basic-c arb-cycling/ If you decide to fiddle with this, I recommend something fast and wheat-free (wheat causes so many people problems I’d avoid it for now). White rice is actually perfect for this exercise because it will metabolize and clear your system fairly quickly. Try half a cup of cooked white rice with some protein about half an hour before you train. See how that makes you feel – and of course get back to the comfort of protein and fat right afterward (exactly what you WON’T usually see recommended for lifting, but for the insulin-resistant, still dropping fat and workout out the finer points of carb timing” lifter, this is the safest way to remain comfortable while you fiddle with your intake.

Ask me anything.

MariAnne