Texas method...why 5x5

[filthy03]

For the first work out of the week it is 5x5 and I am curious why someone couldn't do 3x5? I would think doing 3x5 would allow someone the ability to add weight easier and get stronger faster. Why is their a need for more volume?

[boathead]

you are correct. if you can still make progress on the 3x5, you should.

texas method is not a linear program. it kicks in when such linear progress stops, when a week to week, as opposed to workout to workout, gain is sought.

[filthy03]

you are correct. if you can still make progress on the 3x5, you should.

texas method is not a linear program. it kicks in when such linear progress stops, when a week to week, as opposed to workout to workout, gain is sought.

Thanks for the quick reply. I could probably sustain linear strength but if I did that I would have to eat a lot more than I am willing to because I don't want fat gain. I know most people will say just eat and do it but I want to maintain my weight for the most part. So my plan is to slowly bulk and maybe even recomp diet and try and add 7.5lbs to each Monday's work out and do that weight 3x5. For example.

Monday 180lbs 3x5 instead of 5x5
Wednesday 20% of Monday's workout and 2x5
Friday add 10lbs to Monday's lift and do 1x5 190lbs

Following week

Monday 187.5 3x5
Wednesday 20% 2x5
Friday 197 1x5

What do you think, that way I add only 7.5lbs a week instead of the potential 15 lbs a week if I was eating more food and gaining weight. Works out to around 30lbs a month to the bar vs a potential 60lbs or so if I was eating with a big surplus. Slower strength gain but I should only add around 2 or 3 lbs to my weight which is ideal.

[boathead]

give it a shot and see.

if the goal of TM is to see improvement on friday, it doesn't matter much how you get there. as long as you get there. i personally need the 5x5 on monday if i am going to see the new 5rm on friday.

you'll have to see for yourself whether you need the extra volume or not. at some point you will stall, and i guess that is when you might try adding a set or two.