@Alpha:
I know you already know this, but pushing more weight than the next individual isn't really an indication of superiority. Everyone in that gym has a goal in mind, some may head for strength others mass. Some, like me, are able to lift so much more (I bench a max of 180lbs I keep it at 130lbs - 150lbs so I can push until failure), but why should I risk injury? I don't have to prove anything to anyone in that gym, I'm there for myself and I could care less if someone lifts more than me or less than me. Also it's one thing to lift heavy weights, it's another thing to lift them in the correct form as you know.
The psychological aspect of your statement is understandable though, whatever gets you going in the gym is what you need to do!
I meant it more along the lines of seniority rather than strength. I can tell the difference between someone with a work-out goal in mind and someone that's there because they think they're invincible, yet have only just started.
My satisfaction from that comes from seeing them get knocked down a peg and it reminds me of all the work I've put in to get where I'm at today.
Shit, before I couldn't even do 45's on the bench press. I had to start with 25's. AND struggled.
I almost passed out those first few days, couldn't handle a post-work-out walk on the treadmill for 10 minutes and was just generally out of shape. But for some reason I persisted and now all of that stuff is a joke.
And you're right that working out isn't about who has the bigger number on their bar. I precede my bicep curls with 15 pound dumbbells. And if I can't achieve proper form, I'll go down in weight until I do.
Some newbies, though, deserve respect. I know I have a lot of respect for the ones that come in and struggle but just keep coming back for more. I just like to sneer at the big heads.
Which, yeah honestly it probably makes me as immature as them but… ah well, I enjoy seeing their bubbles popped.~