cartierhoe
Veteran
Got my mojo back in the gym
@The ADD @tampabaysbeast Followed you guys advised and I am going with Stronglift 5x5. I won't the beginner pics have me second guessing HEAVY. People end up looking DYEL OR have that Bullfrog Effect. However, after countless information overload I'm just going fukk IT...

Ummm...a lot of the people reporting DYEL, Bullfrog Effect, Centaur/T-Rex Status, etc. 1) Stopped doing SL 5x5 before they should have and 2) Did not do any (or enough) accessory work. If you add things like heavy Barbell Curls, Skullcrushers or Close-Grip Bench, Dips, and Chin/Pull-ups (weighted if possible), and continue the program until you have legit intermediate/advanced stats, you won't have that problem.
If you're not benching at least 225 for reps, squatting 315, and pulling at least 4 plates when you stop the program, then of course you'll look like a DYEL fukkboy.
![]()

If you're adding accessory work then it's not really SL anymore
Ummm...a lot of the people reporting DYEL, Bullfrog Effect, Centaur/T-Rex Status, etc. 1) Stopped doing SL 5x5 before they should have and 2) Did not do any (or enough) accessory work. If you add things like heavy Barbell Curls, Skullcrushers or Close-Grip Bench, Dips, and Chin/Pull-ups (weighted if possible), and continue the program until you have legit intermediate/advanced stats, you won't have that problem.
If you're not benching at least 225 for reps, squatting 315, and pulling at least 4 plates when you stop the program, then of course you'll look like a DYEL fukkboy.
![]()






If you're adding accessory work then it's not really SL anymore
I don't really understand those 5 rep programs. I mean any program that incorporates progressive overload is gonna get you stronger. But why 5 reps only? Why no accessories? Even straight up powerlifters vary their reps and do accessories. Plus I feel like most people get into lifting for aesthetics... and SL (and SS) are def not aesthetics focused. Both are extremely well marketed though which IMO is the biggest driver of their popularity.
To be fair I lost like 6lb in the first 2 weeks so I can't be mad. Still got another 14 to go 
Fair enough. For a pure beginner I can see the appeal in this approach.SS and SL are more so for developing a strength base relatively quickly, which works. Also, it's simplicity is pretty attractive. I don't think anyone should be doing it though more than a year if you've had the proper strength gains.
Stalled on my cut on the scale (and even my waist measurement) but moving ahead visually. When you're on poverty macros and can't hold a pump you gotta take wins wherever they come fromTo be fair I lost like 6lb in the first 2 weeks so I can't be mad. Still got another 14 to go
![]()