Weighted Chins/Pullups

[Deadmaster200]

Mr. Rippetoe,

I am doing your novice program exactly as outlined in PP. I am doing chins on the Monday workout and pullups on the Friday workout. Over the total of the 3 sets, I am gaining 2-3 reps every workout for chins, and 1-2 for pullups. Chin workout 2 weeks ago was 11 reps, 7 reps, 6 reps. Last week was 11 reps, 8 reps, 7 reps. Pullups have stayed the same the last two weeks at 8 reps, 6 reps, and 5 reps.

When would you recommend to start doing the weighted versions?

Also, I am also very curious as to the reasoning why such a huge volume (45 reps) is necessary, especially when everything else is only 15 reps? Not to argue, just curious!

[Mark Rippetoe]

I'd start weighted chins when your first set gets to 15 reps, same for pullups. If you're improving that fast, it shouldn't be more than a couple more weeks. As for why 45 reps, do the math for me, because I don't know how you get there. You're going to be weighted, and using fewer reps, as soon as your first set gets to 15, so 3 sets will never be 45 reps anyway.

[Deadmaster200]

Mr. Rippetoe,

Thanks for the reply. Actually, the reason why I asked is because in PP, it says not to start the weighted versions until you get 15 reps for all 3 sets, yet other times you have stated to start weighted versions as soon as one gets 15 reps on the first set. Maybe just a typo in PP?

[Mark Rippetoe]

Not a typo in PPST, just an example of how things are seldom graven in stone. Especially things that are not as important as "If you don't squat you are a pussy."