What’s up everyone,

I’m 6’0 and currently 181 lbs. I started lifting at around 160 lbs. When I first got in the gym, I couldn’t even bench 100 lbs. Now I’m consistently hitting 135 for 3 sets of 10–12 as soon as I get in.

My short-term goal is to bench 225.

Right now, I don’t really have a structured program. I usually do:

	•	Bench press

	•	Dips

	•	Triceps

	•	Biceps

	•	Shoulders

	•	Pull-ups

	•	Some forearms

I know I’m definitely neglecting legs and probably other important movements too. I’m trying to lift heavy and build size, but I feel like I need more structure.

Nutrition-wise, I’m trying to eat a lot of protein and carbs. I just started whey protein and started creatine last week.

One important thing: I’m Type 1 diabetic, so I’m not sure how much that affects muscle gain, strength progression, or how I should structure my diet.

For those of you who’ve gone from 135 to 225 on bench:

	•	What program helped you most?

	•	How often should I be benching?

	•	What should my weekly split look like?

	•	How many calories/protein should I realistically aim for?

	•	Anything specific I should consider as a Type 1 diabetic?

Appreciate any advice. The two photos in black pants are from when I first started.

6’0 | 181 lbs (Started at 160) – Bench at 135x10-12, Goal is 225. Looking for Advice on Programming + Nutrition (Type 1 Diabetic)