What weight to start with? Trying to settle a debate.

[codysweet02]

I am trying to settle a debate with a friend. If during my assesment day at the gym I find out that I can squat 195lbs 5 times, but can not squat any more, is 195lbs the weight i start with? Or would i do say 185lbs for 5 reps on my first workout? I believe I would start with 195lbs, my 5 rep max, and progress from there. My friend thinks you would start with lower than 195lbs. Which one of us is right?

Thanks Rip.

[Mark Rippetoe]

If your 5RM is 195, you cannot use it for 3 sets of 5, because you are going to do more than one set of 5. So yes, you'd have to use a lower weight to train.

[codysweet02]

Ok. So if you could do 195 for 3 sets of 5, but not anymore, would you use 195? Or would you still start with lower weight?

Thanks Rip.

[mark]

I believe the book says that when the bar speed slows, you've reached your working weight.

[Mark Rippetoe]

If you can do 195 x 5 x 3, the 195 is not your 5RM.

[JPC]

I think the question the TS is getting at is...assuming this is not a complete beginner, but someone who already has good form and maybe getting ready to start a new cycle or their first SS/PP routine , should one start a routine with what is currently their maximum weights, or start a bit conservative and build some gaining momentum before it gets really hard? Most of what I've read advises the latter. Break into a routine, don't jump into the deep end.