Easy Strength for Size Even Easier Strength

Monday (Day 1) – 2 x 5

• A. Incline Bench Press (Press Movement): 165 for 5 reps x 2 sets, assuming a 300-pound max single.
• B. Thick Bar Deadlift (Hinge Movement): 185 for 5 reps x 2 sets, assuming a 265-pound max single. This counts as a pull and a hinge movement.
• C. Front Squat (Squat Movement): 185 x 5 reps for 2 sets, assuming a 405-pound max single.
• D. Farmer's Walk (Loaded Carry Movement): 105 pounds in each hand, 100 meters out and back with three stops.
• E. Ab Wheel (Optional Add-On): 5 reps x 2 sets.

Again, you'll repeat each of these movements every training day.

Tuesday (Day 2) – 2 x 5

This can be heavier or lighter depending on mood and feel. The important thing is to show up and get the movements in.

If one day is too hard and compromises the next day's workout, that's fine as long as you lighten the load and continue getting the reps in without compromising speed.

Wednesday (Day 3) – 5/3/2

Begin with the 5-rep number from the usual 2 x 5 workout. Then add some weight for three reps, and finally add some weight for two reps. Be sure to get the double.

Most people on this program find that this workout is the test for how things are progressing. The weights should begin to fly up on the double. That's good, but stop there.

Remember, this is a long-term approach to getting strong. Don't keep testing yourself.

Friday and Saturday (Days 4 and 5) – 2 x 5

These are potentially the most confusing days in that the load on the bar depends on how you feel. If the effort feels easy and light, "nudge" the load up. Here's the secret (again): The goal of this program is to gently raise your efforts (load) on the easy days so that the bar feels light.

If you start out lifting a weight, say 205 at one effort level, and in a few weeks you're lifting 245 at the same perceived effort and speed, you're definitely stronger.

Monday (Day 6) – 2 x 5

After a day of rest, day 6 is going to feel easy and that's how it should be. Get the reps in.

Tuesday (Day 7) – 6 x 1

Day 7 has a simple rule: You'll do six singles, adding weight each rep. It can be 5 pounds or 50, depending on how each single feels. It's not a max effort on the last set; it's just the sixth single. If the loads feel heavy, just add five pounds. If the bar is flying, add more.

For people who come from the tradition of "smashing your face on the wall," day 7 is confusing. Your goal is to determine the load based on how the weight feels. If it pops right up and feels light, toss on the plates.

If it doesn't, respect today and realize that you're going to have plenty of opportunities to get stronger in the future.

Wednesday (Day 8) – 1 x 10

Day 8 is a "tonic" day. Go really light and just enjoy ten reps. It can be as light as 40% of max. Just use the movement to unwind after the previous day's heavy attempts.

Friday (Day 9) – 2 x 5

Day 9 is often the day when people start to understand the reasoning behind the program. This is the day where the weights seem to often be "far too easy." That's the sign of progress in this program.

Saturday (Day 10) – 5/3/2

This is often the day where people test themselves a little. This is fine as long as you feel like going after it. Again, don't miss.

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Source: https://www.t-nation.com/training/the-40-workout-strength-challenge/

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