Muscle Gain Forum

Lately I've been trying to keep my big lifts moving up without giving up the pump and muscle growth. Thinking about starting sessions with heavy compounds like squats, bench, or deadlifts, then finishing with higher-rep accessory work.
Anyone training this way? Did it help you build size while still getting stronger, or did one side end up suffering? Curious to hear what’s been working for you guys.

Yep, that's pretty much how I've been training. Heavy first, then chase the pump. Strength's been climbing and I actually look fuller too.

As long as you're not taking every heavy set to failure, it works great. Save some gas for the accessories and you'll grow.

Good point. I think I've been overdoing the heavy work and by the time I get to accessories I'm already cooked. Might back off a little.

I run 5 reps on compounds, then 10-15 reps on everything else. Best combo I've found so far. Feels like I'm getting the best of both worlds.

Don't skip isolation work just because you're lifting heavy. My arms and delts finally started growing once I added more volume after the main lifts.

Recovery is the biggest thing. Heavy squats and deadlifts every week will beat you up fast if you're not eating and sleeping enough.

Makes sense. I think I'll keep one heavy focus lift each workout and stop trying to PR everything. Appreciate all the feedback, guys.

I've been doing this for almost a year. Hit the big lifts early, finish with bodybuilding work, and keep progressing little by little. Strength is up and I'm definitely looking thicker than before.

I've had good results with that approach too I keep the compound lift as the priority usually leaving 1–2 reps in reserve instead of grinding every set. Then I add enough accessory volume to target the muscles the main lift doesn't fully hit. My strength has kept moving up and the extra volume has definitely helped with size. The biggest difference for me was managing fatigue instead of trying to set a personal record every session.