Questions for JS and others

[monsoon]

I am strongly considering a return to the 5x5 program for a minimum of three months starting in about three weeks. Some backround, I have been training hard for at least 7 years, not so hard for 14. In three weeks I will be coming off 16 months of continuous AAS use. My questions revolve around additional work. I am used to working out 5-6 days a week, most recently I have done 2 HST cycles, curently in 5's on the second. Would it be detrimental to add direct calf work, G/H raises, and reverse hypers? possibly on tues/thurs. My posterior chain is a week point. Also, how long of a loading phase do you think I could tolerate? 2 weeks? I believe I have a good work capacity, but I tend to short change myself on deloading. Finally, would it be ok to substitute db benches on weds? I have shoulder issues from time to time and these would allow me to vary hand position to my comfort.

Thankyou to all who contribute.

 

[johnsmith182]

the calf work and reverse hypers or gh sound fine, dumbell presses wouldnt be a problem.

if you do the program, id stay with a 4 week loading cycle, start conservatively and try to be hitting difficult sets around week 3. coming off of AAS right about when you start will complicate the weight selection, but you ought to know your body well enough to compensate.

I am strongly considering a return to the 5x5 program for a minimum of three months starting in about three weeks. Some backround, I have been training hard for at least 7 years, not so hard for 14. In three weeks I will be coming off 16 months of continuous AAS use. My questions revolve around additional work. I am used to working out 5-6 days a week, most recently I have done 2 HST cycles, curently in 5's on the second. Would it be detrimental to add direct calf work, G/H raises, and reverse hypers? possibly on tues/thurs. My posterior chain is a week point. Also, how long of a loading phase do you think I could tolerate? 2 weeks? I believe I have a good work capacity, but I tend to short change myself on deloading. Finally, would it be ok to substitute db benches on weds? I have shoulder issues from time to time and these would allow me to vary hand position to my comfort.

Thankyou to all who contribute.

 

[monsoon]

Perhaps I should extend the deloading period following the HST or can I start right away as long as I'm conservative with weight?