Hello from South Jersey... and rep question!

[llsouder]

on day two today. Seems easy so far. What is up with 5x5? Can I do 1x25 or 2x10 + 1x5? In other words, do you have to break an put done the bar after each set? I realize I will have to when it gets harder, but I am talking day one and two here.

Hope to do this till 1.5 body weight and hopefully use it with some of my friends.

[luco]

Welcome to the forum, Ilsouder. You could have pages of debate about this, but simply put it'd break down to something like this: Doing 5 reps allows you to use a heavier weight than when you'd do 10 reps. More weight=more strength. Also, a 2,5kg increase is managable if you're doing 5 repetitions. At 10 it's going to take a longer time to increase weight, limiting strength gains. If you are doing one massive set of 25, you'll be working more aerobically than anaerobically. Not what you're after. You might want to make a training log with your starting stats and goals etc in it. Stick to the program and things will come together soon. You're only on day 2!

[lovestolift]

Sets of five are just right for a strength adaptation to occur. You may be tempted to do a scatter shot approach as you suggested, but it isn't conducive to this program, even at low weights. The lighter weights allow you to work on form. Even with light weights, your form will break down after five reps. Wait until you reach the intermediate stage, where hopefully you will have mastered your form, before experimenting with other set and rep schemes.

Long story short: Do sets of five, even if you are only resting 30 seconds right now. Set the bar down, and then reset after a short rest.

[llsouder]

Got it. Rest for 30 secs... Will do!

thanks for replies!