Following is an inteview of 2010 with KK. Notice similar training pattern as most Eastern Bloc lifters, higher frequency and bigger volume on just a couple of basic lifts.
How did you start with powerlifting and with sports in general?
KK: I started with general gymnastics when I was about 6. Then I did some judo training. Serious strength training started when I was 16 years old.
Did I get it right that deadlift is your favourite lift?
KK: Yes, that would be correct. I was a strong puller right from the start. I remember pulling 215k at 70k bodyweight when I wasd 16. I pulled with a horribly ronded back and without a belt. I try hard that squat and bench press stay with my pull.
Many say that your pulling technique is really terrible. Do you really have no back pain?
KK: I always pulled with a rounded back. I tried and drilled the correct technique but I had limited strength and my back always hurt. Then I started trusting my body and I have never changed since then. I like it that way and I always improve. But you have to remeber that this style puts twice as big demand on my spinal erectors, upper back and abs. All must be very strong. I have to say Ano Turtiainen from Finland was a very helpful teacher.
I was wondering about your bench, you have very long arms yet you bench with a close grip. Why?
I listened to all "experts" about benching with a wide grip. But with my long arms, I was not able to fully engage my lats in the bottom position and suffered from all kinds of shoulder and tendon problems. So, I switched to close grip. And I can still improve that way. Simply, I am different and this benching style suits me well. One needs a very strong triceps for benching this way, though.
Are you happy with your current bodyweight?
KK: I always had troubles gaining weight. I am naturally lean and I always had to fight for new mass. On the other hand I do not want to get fat. Slowly I would like to get to 135 - 140 kg. Currently, I weigh around 128 kg which is not much considering my height 190 cm.
It is quite difficult to combine professional training and normal life with job. What do you think?
I work as a bodyguard and fly all over the world which is interesting and nice but hard to combine with training and meets. Many times, I have to train in hotel fitness clubs where, of course, there is no powerlifting equipment. Sometimes, the only option is push-ups and squats with my colleague on my back. I usually lose 4-5kg of my bodyweight and it takes me around 2 weeks to get back on track. But if you want it hard enough, all can be done.
What are you getting ready for right now?
KK: I am resting a bit right now. My next goal is a 441k (970 lb) pull. Many people ask me if I break Andy's (Andy Bolton) WR. I would like to compete against Andy but without gear. I think people are getting fed up with all the records in gear. We should all lift raw. Well, that's my opinion.
Konstantin Konstantinovs - sample training:
Training A:
- light squat: 5 sets of 10
- deadlift: 120k x 5, 160k x 5, 200k x 3, 240k x 1, 280k x 1, 320k x 1, 360k x 1, 390k x 4
- bench press: 6x6
- box squat: 6x6
Training B:
- squat heavy: 4x4
- bench heavy: 6x3
- hypers with 60k: 2x20
- arms (optional)
- cardio 15-20 min
Source: bogatyr.su
