beckyjane32

I was wondering what the difference is in doing my working sets of squats in 5 sets of 3 reps at the same weight? I've also recently tried playing around with my sets/reps and increasing overall poundage lifted. Example:

Currently following the 3 sets of 5 I'm at 275lbs, which after a total of 15 reps equals 4,125lbs.

Now, if I do: 275 1 x 3 = 825 lbs, 280 1 x 3 = 840 lbs, 285 3 x 3 = 2,565lbs, 290 1 x 2 = 580lbs (17 reps). That is 4,810lbs overall & 685lbs more

I only ask because the lower reps & higher weight seem easier for me to handle. Mostly because I'm lacking upper body strength and my upper back seems to fatigue before my legs when doing the higher reps at 3 sets of 5. I still plan on doing 3 sets of 5, but just want a change up since I'm squatting 4 days a week.

But am I correct in assuming that lifting overall more pounds when doing more weight and close to same reps but more sets equals an overall stronger squat?

crookedfinger

I try to keep things as simple as possible for as long as possible. One thing that has helped me personally is the mantra, "stress, recovery, adaptation." This will get more complicated as you progress, but don't miss the forest for the trees...

CeeKa

1. If I recall correctly, at the squat the toes point and the knees get shoved out to avoid impingement. How's that when doing lunges? They are performed with a straight foot and knee, aren't they? Won't exactly this type of impingement happen here?
2. For people who are unable to perform a bodyweight squat, Rip recommends the leg press as performed in the platform video. He also recommends 10 reps. Why is that? If we are trying to build strength, wouldn't 5 reps as done when squatting be better?