Hi all, 28-year-old male, 88kg from Helsinki, Finland here. First post on this forum after a couple of months of following discussions.
Reached the simple standard today! Started working on it in mid-September, and today was S&S practice number 26. Was looking to give it a go by the end of November, but came down with a bit of a cold and had to postpone for a week or so.
I originally started working with kettlebells in 2007 as a complementary practice when I was still a competitive junior athlete in rowing. In 2009 I stopped competitive training as I had a major operation on my back (for pretty severe idiopathic scoliosis), and once I was cleared for training by my orthopedist about a year later, kettlebells were one of the instruments I used for rehabilitation and regaining strength in my posterior chain.
I more or less kept up the practice until around Spring 2015, along with barbell training. Then "life happened" and I had a hiatus from all strength training for about 4 years. This past Spring and Summer my lower back was acting up, and I knew it was because I had neglected taking care of my strength and mobility for the last few years.
In July I took up an almost daily yoga routine, which helped immensely with the backaches. In August I started messing about with my old kettlebells, and ran into the S&S program. I decided to give it a shot and see how my body would respond. I took a liking to the program, and this Fall I've had a better and more balanced training routine of running, S&S and mobility work (hips, ankles and shoulders) than I remember having for many years.
I've noticed significant improvements in many areas. My posture has improved significantly and my back mostly feels great nowadays - better than it's felt in years. I feel great doing everyday stuff - walking, standing, sitting. My shoulder stability and mobility have increased greatly - especially in my left shoulder, which was operated after an accident in 2013. My overall body composition has changed - I've lost fat, gained some muscle and developed a more athletic physique. My forearms have grown significantly as have my glutes, and my shoulders seem more defined and manly.
The simplicity of S&S has been a key factor for me. I've found it easy to integrate into my schedule, which has translated into a steady routine of practices, leading to quickly improving strength levels and results. Today I placed an order for a 40kg kettlebell, and I intend to keep working towards Sinister. Also bought the Q&D book and am looking forward to giving the program a try.
So thanks for the program and best of luck to all colleagues working towards Simple!