Novice/Intermediate lifter

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imported_fearfactory

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I consider my current 5x5 (madcow starr intermediate)to be very similar to Rippetoe's novice program w/ regard to linear progression/adding weight weekly.  

specifically interested in garnering some opinions.

as I am able to make linear progression, I consider myself a beginner lifter.  am I off base in thinking it would be beneficial to run a program that focuses on foundational lifts until I can't add weight to the bar every week?   edit- that is to say while I'm still an intermediate/novice capable of making directly linear progress -
bear in mind I ask this question being 7 weeks into a 5x5.  I have no intention in doing anything but seeing my current program through to the end.  I'm just curious to know if folks think it makes sense.

I see HST training as my long term training method, because maximizing muscle mass is my goal.  that said, I may do a periodized 5x5 (madcow star/pendlay intro to periodization) or sheiko program at some point in the future (maybe in the fall).

this thread is an extension of some thoughts I shared in wannagrow's log....
 
I say milk 5x5 linear programming for as long as you can. Nothing beats adding weight to the bar every week for both strength and hypertrophy gains.
But....eventually its not so easy, and then advanced periodized 5x5 ( or sheiko, or what-have-you) for strength becomes a solid option, or if bodybuilding is more you style, then HST is a great periodization system for mass.
I am convinced that once one has been training for a couple years and has a solid foundation developed from Starting Strength type programs, then HST is the best bodybuilding system out there.
So.....milk your weekly gains as long as you can, but when you stall you should pick whichever advanced program meets your needs (strength or size).
cool.gif
 
I stalled out about 2 1/2 years ago after only three months of regular training. That's when I found HST and have made steady progress since then. If you can still add weight to the bar on a regular basis (ie. weekly) then that's what you should do until you can't do so any longer. Once the increments get really small, I'd start cycling your training as I believe you will make better progress that way.

I reckon your long-term plan of using HST, 5x5 and similar training programs is right on the money. If you get into powerlifting more seriously then a bit of specialisation on the big three lifts will obviously be required.
 
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(scientific muscle @ Apr. 30 2008,1:23)</div><div id="QUOTEHEAD">QUOTE</div><div id="QUOTE">I am convinced that once one has been training for a couple years and has a solid foundation developed from Starting Strength type programs, then HST is the best bodybuilding system out there.</div>
I am in complete agreement. Build the foundation, then specialize in whatever it is you want to do. If strictly size, HST is the answer.
 
If it ain't broke, don't fix it. Keep marching on. A solid foundation is good for HST or any other mass program.
 
<div>
(Old and Grey @ Apr. 30 2008,9:03)</div><div id="QUOTEHEAD">QUOTE</div><div id="QUOTE">If it ain't broke, don't fix it. Keep marching on. A solid foundation is good for HST or any other mass program.</div>
Agreed...

FF said:
<div></div><div id="QUOTEHEAD">QUOTE</div><div id="QUOTE">I see HST training as my long term training method, because maximizing muscle mass is my goal. that said, I may do a periodized 5x5 (madcow star/pendlay intro to periodization) or sheiko program at some point in the future (maybe in the fall).</div>

This is actually a common practice around here first popularized by O&amp;G.

Faz said:
<div></div><div id="QUOTEHEAD">QUOTE</div><div id="QUOTE">IMO lifting is like bulking,the slower the progress the safer and healthier it is.</div>

Agreed, slow changes in body mass seem to be the most optimal for many of us including Slapz and myself. Lifting seems to be no different. Concentrate on correct form and the strength will eventually find itself.
 
<div></div><div id="QUOTEHEAD">QUOTE</div><div id="QUOTE">I am convinced that once one has been training for a couple years and has a solid foundation developed from Starting Strength type programs, then HST is the best bodybuilding system out there.</div>
What the others have already said. Stay with linear progression for as long as you can. When you are sure you have hit a wall, it's probably time to try a periodized program (that is HST if your goal is size).
 
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