The goal is to keep adding weight to the bar. If you’re uneasy about making a 20 or 10lb jump for your next attempt, and would rather make just a 5lb jump - using 2.5lb plates, you’re giving the weight too much respect. You’re not confident enough in your strength.

Get stronger, have fun, everything else will follow!

I recently wrote an article going over the typical procedure I like to follow for a max-out session. I have some follow-up thoughts on the topic for this episode. Here is the link to the article: https://www.drewmurphystrength.com/stuff/testingyour1repmax

Reducing the load of an exercise will allow you to train the exercise with higher frequency. You cannot load a front squat as heavy as you can a back squat, but the lighter weight needed for a front squat will still give you a good training stimulus. A heavy front squat will not tax your body quite like a heavy back squat will.

There is a roadmap to your desired goals laid out for you. Follow the map and you’ll get to where you want to be. Don’t become distracted and start venturing off the path.

Is it okay to lift weights two days in a row?

Don’t pray for an easy life, pray for the strength to endure a difficult one.

How much variety do you need in your workouts? Actually, very little, but if you do insist on incorporating a lot of variety, be sure to vary up the right types of exercises.

I eat in extremes...it’s either really good or really bad. I’ll never eat a cupcake on the same day I eat chicken and vegetables!