Too early for some changes?

[Eric Schexnayder]

Hi Brent,

Male, 29, 6'3", 223 lbs. Current lifts: SQ 220, PR 125, BP 185, DL 235, PC 145. Just finished week 9 of the SSNLP.

I have three children and work full time, and end up compromising the amount of sleep I can get in order to have time to lift (I wake up at 4:15 AM to work out MWF). I began stalling about 2 weeks ago and decided to deload a little after modifying my diet (way more carbs; calories were fine, though I am consuming about 1000/day more now).

I decided after deloading that given my circumstances, it may be best to introduce a Light Squat day on Wednesday, as well as introduce chin ups as a break from "heavy" pulls.

I can get about 3x5 on chin ups (got 4 on the last set), so I think I'm at least getting some decent volume. On my LS day I was really damn sore at the bottom, but Friday's workout went just fine.

Anyway, I am wondering if I am introducing these changes too early into my programming. The LS day seemed to help with recovery somewhat. Most importantly, I was actually excited to workout on Wednesday, whereas lately I've been dreading heavy squats each workout. That was a big indicator to me that it was an okay decision. However, I don't want to needlessly slow progress in my novice period.

Just wanted to know your thoughts. Thanks in advance.

[Brent Carter]

Even if you introduced the light squat day a whole month early really you are only slowing yourself down by 4 workouts which means a little over a week. In the long run of your training this means close to nothing. Take the light day especially if it makes you more consistent and less prone to burnout.

[Eric Schexnayder]

Sounds like a plan. Thanks so much for the advice.