Strength and Physique

Q: Just started the third week of your workout plan . Couple of questions, and if they're answered already on your blog, please point me to the correct post(s). To start the first week, I used the percentages, but then on each workout, I've just been increasing each set by 5 lbs from the previous workout. Instead of bench press, I'm doing the hammer strength plate loaded chest press because I tend to push more with my left side. With the hammer strength, it forces both sides to do an equal amount of work. This morning, I failed at the 6 reps set at 200 lbs and only got 3 reps. What's the procedure if I don't get to 6 reps? Should I do the same amount of weight on the next chest press workout, or drop down in weight 5 lbs? Next question - Next week starts the 5x5 set/rep scheme. Is there a formula/way to determine what my 5x5 weight should be based on what I achieved with the 10-8-6-15? I'm doing the carb cycling,, high carb, high cal...

Q: I saw your article on Bodybuilding.com, so I went to your site and got your workout.   I'm 37, 6'1" 189 pounds, and I'd estimate about 17-18% body fat based on photos online of body fat % pictures. Have been lifting weights recreationally for several years, but never really making good progress. As far as diet, would you recommend using this calculator for body recomposition? If so, it's recommending that I eat 182g protein, 70g carbs, 93g fat on rest days, and 182g protein, 381g carbs, 56g fat on training days.  Or follow a different plan entirely?  What do you think about that? I don't necessarily want to gain more weight, but want to add more visible muscle. I have some muscle, but long arms and legs.  I have a definite chest that feels hard when I flex, but wish it to be more defined and visible  Unfortunately, other than the gym, I'm pretty sedentary due to work. As far as your lifting program, how do you recommend determining what my six...