Dear Amy G,
I love SH rotations, which is something I didn't expect before I started doing them. I find that a 3 week rotation, along with very CLEAN eating, reveals nice muscle development, and my body looks and feels stronger and tigher. I tend to be a bit hungrier during this type of rotation so the type of food I eat becomes very important. Close to nature, unprocessed, etc. Which is why I go on this rotation when I know I will have a lot of control over my diet. That means when I don't foresee any travel (diet is off and heavy weights are not available) or holiday parties!
I don't notice that I can lift like Arnold after a SH rotation, but one unanticipated benefit for me is a feeling of athletic competance. I don't know how else to describe this. Since real focus is the key to success with this type of work, I believe I get better at other types of exercise too. I am in my mid-40s and have 3 active teens and a full-time job, so I use SH as reward time for me....almost meditation time. As Cathe says, concentration and focus are key. And of course, good food.
Enjoy!
Paula