Mettleman is correct that I trained to failure-more accurately to inability to lower kb to shoulder very slowly-during the KB workouts, though I rarely hit failure in my most productive routine as I cycled up with small discs and usually made my reps. I do not agree that single heavy work sets are unproductive or unsafe-they have been the only protocol that consistently works for me and got me to the 400lb barrier in squats and stiff legged deadlifts.
That said, I will give ladders a go over the next 6 weeks on lower reps-1-3. I think this will be good to reinforce skill in a new exercise and clearly my alternative appears to be so demanding that I have buggered myself.the chap that was taking the mickey that I am only lifting the 32kilo bell after 4 workouts is a bit over-critical-its very demanding! Give me time!
Thanks to all comrades for responding.will report back in a couple of months.