Loading Length Determination

[Girth]

I've seen AM suggest that he loads for 2 weeks and deloads for 1. the 5x5 is a 4 load, 4 unload protocol. My questions regard determining the length of each phase.

What parameter(s) should one use to gauge if they are at the right length of time for that phase? For example, in the above comparison, is it AM's personal preference, experience level, or goals that caused the discrepancy? (Please don't say all of those AM) Should the loading and unloading time frames be equal?

I have many iterations of the same base question, but I'd like some pointers from those here to perhaps weed out a lot of the questions I have.

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[AnimalMass]

Well it depends on how hard you load. I'd start by loading for 1-2 weeks and then deloading for 1-2 weeks. See how your body responds. 5x5 isn't really a 4 week loading period. Really the first 2 weeks are relatively light, and true loading only occurs in weeks 3 and 4, and then there is an unloading period and then a peak - but this is used to get as storng as possible, not as big as possible.

When training for hypertrophy, I'd probably train regularly for 2 weeks, load for 2 weeks, and then deload for 1-2 weeks. If you still feel beat up after 1 week of deloading, then deload for another week.

Matt

 

[Girth]

Thanks AM....sorry about the delay. Work has me hopping states. I didn't think to look at the 5x5 loading from that perspective. The preceding breaks it down quite nicely.

As for training for size or strength.....How do you classify someone who's vanity wants them to be larger, but who's ego on the playing field wants to keep their strength/weight ratio high enough for athletic admiration?

Confused......or the norm?