Where to start?

[Dwayne_KONG_Wint]

Hello Mr. Rippetoe,

My name is Dwayne and I'm new to the board. I have SSBT and Practical Programming. Actually I've had them for some time now and read them thoroughly.

A little background on me...I've come from a bodybuilding background for several years and recently (last year) decided I was done with that and moved on to powerlifting. I'm 28 years old and have done well as a bodybuilder but my passion really is moving heavy weight.

I began my powerlifting training using Sheiko principles and have increased my total 100 lbs in less than a year, and actually put on some good quality muscular weight by learning to eat more (and drink milk again). However, I have never taken a stab at the linear progression that is outlined in the novice section of Practical Programming and in the Programming section of SSBT. I feel that I am be shortchanging my results by not doing so since the I feel that the Sheiko template is more of a block periodized schedule which falls under the Advanced category according to Practical Programming.

Anyway, my question is simply this. With Sheiko training, the prescription for weights are made according to percentage of 1 rep max (example, 80%x3x5). If I was to switch to the linear progression, what percentage of my 1 rep max would I use to start off?

Thanks for the answer in advance.

-Dwayne

[Mark Rippetoe]

The way to start is detailed in the books.