I totally agree on the volume thing in Arnold's book. I took one look at that shit and knew there was no way in hell I was going to do that to my body. I just do three movements right now at about three or four sets a piece and I can tell that the benefit I get from the last few sets is not as good as quality as the first few were.
I'm beginning to see where you guys are coming from though. First problem is the mass mentality. I simply can't have anymore than what I already have right now.
Second is coming from both ends. You're right the smith machine is a bad analogy. But I'm NOT trying to work my pecs in isolation! I just want inefficient stimulation. Meaning that I neglect the greater area of the pectorial muscle. I realize that the desire to do that doesn't make sense to big un's like phreez and grizz, but you have to remember that weight lifting is not my sport, it is a hobby that has improved my sport. And the demands of my sport, sadly, take precedent over the most effective way of gaining mass. However, honestly, my question has been more of one of vanity than anything else.
So, thanks for all the input. You guys have confirmed what I was already noticing, that our muscles grow in a predetermined shape, and there is now way to influence their grow in the way of implementing controls.
And, in a few years, when I get ready to move on to something else, and I have the freedom to get as big as I want to be, then you guys will have already helped me shed some old dogma's... even you phreezer
Asshole!