In an attempt to efficiently speed up the process of self-research I figured I should reach out to a trustworthy community and avoid the "fad workouts" plaguing the internet. I'll give some context to work off of and any advice moving forward would be appreciated.

On March 14th, I started 5x5 Stronglifts as a beginner on the empty bar. I've read that it's good to move on and work on isolated exercises anywhere from 6-12 months (or after proper form on every exercise) from this program and so I think it's time to move on. Here's some info to work off of:

6'2, 205 lbs

I currently eat at a 500 calorie deficit as I'm cutting body fat, and aim for about a .7:1 to 1:1 protein / pound ratio (with a minimum of .5:1 if it's a special occasion and I'm going out) and a .5-1 fat ratio.

Current lifts:

Squat: 270

Bench: 150

Deadlift: 255

Overhead Press: 110

Barbell Row: 120

Couple of notes -- I know it's not typical for squat to be above the deadlift, but I feel like it's not actual muscle strength plateauing me so much as grip strength. Once I can work through the discomfort in my hands I have no doubt this will improve a lot.

Similarly, my bench brings the same issue. It definitely feels challenging, but I'm more or less stunted because of wrist pains, as sometimes I have extremely sharp pain on my left wrist a lot of the time, which makes me feel that the exercise is potentially detrimental until I can fix the underlying issues. I will probably consider a wrist brace.

As a final mention, I don't currently have a gym membership but will get one soon, as I've been doing these exercises in a home gym I built with a squat rack, bench, barbell, and custom standard weights.


If any more information is required, I'll fill out more information below; just trying to advance my physical training. Cheers!

EDIT - Everyone's been super helpful and I will try to incorporate as much of this advice as I can. Thank you, all.