Muscle Gain Forum

This is the right sequence. Beginners should milk linear gains fully, then move to a structured intermediate program. Switching early just trades fast progress for slow progress prematurely.

Worth saying: 'parallel' for powerlifting (hip crease below knee) is a rule for a sport. For general muscle building you don't need to obsess over a judge's standard. Full range you can control, progressively loaded, is the goal.

That's a recipe for being sore and under-recovered, not bigger. Less is more when you're starting.

Great framework. The mistake beginners make is starting at max volume. Start low, progress the weight first, and add volume only when progress stalls. You want room to grow into, not max out on day one.

Ego is what's keeping the bad pattern. Film from the side at the lighter weight so you get instant feedback. 'Slack out, chest up, push the floor away' on repeat. It'll click in a couple weeks.

This. The 'best split' is the one that lets you progressively overload week to week while recovering. For a natural with a job and a life, 4-5 days usually beats 6 because life doesn't derail it.

Awesome input, crew! Beginners: StrongLifts, Starting Strength, or even MuscleMentor’s 2-day plan are gold.
Key is consistency—pick one, stick to it 8-12 weeks, and eat big.
Vets, keep the tips coming—newbies need you!

New to lifting? Let’s talk starter programs—StrongLifts, Starting Strength, or something else. Vets, drop your wisdom for the newbies!

Running 5/3/1 or curious about it? Post your experience—how do you tweak it for strength or size? Let’s optimize this classic together.