For about 8 months now I've had severe hip pain in my right hip, namely my Sacroiliac Joint. This has barred me from doing any cardio and legs in the gym, as it only inflames the joint and cause more pain. I'm hoping the inflammation will eventually subside, but until then, I'm stuck doing only upper body in the gym.
I'm sure my routine can be improved, as I'm still a Newbie at resistance training, I figure some of you guys could help me out. I've been lifting for about 5-6 months now, about 3 days a week, solely on upper body. I have been doing a semi complete upper body routine every other day w/ a two day break on Wed/Thurs for recovery. About once a month, I'll go 4 days for the week.
I started out doing All machine work, 12-15 reps for 3 sets on Bench, Bi, Tri, Seated Row, Lat Pull Down, Shoulders, Fly, and Abs if my hip wasn't hurting too badly. I started out doing a medium intensity for me, but have now worked up to a higher intensity, as my muscle mass has grown. I've almost doubled my bench, and have now lowered my reps on all areas to 8-10 reps and have transitioned to 1/2 free weights and 1/2 machine work.
I've gone from 26-27% body fat down to about 21% and from 236lbs down to 212lbs. I'm 6' and have a "large" build (i.e. broad shoulders etc...). I'd like to build more muscle mass, and lower my body fat % to about 15%, which I think will put my weight somewhere in the neighborhood of 200lbs.
Long story short. I'm pretty sure my current routine is not the best for maximizing my muscle growth potential. If anyone could suggest a better routine given my situation, it would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance,
BigJ491