Minimalist StrongLifts 5×5 (Blog)

[Mehdi]

Use this thread to discuss the next post from StrongLifts.com's blog:

Minimalist StrongLifts 5×5: Strength Training with Minimal Equipment

[Mehdi]

I removed the dumbbell version of StrongLifts 5x5. Nothing against dumbbells, but I don't want a routine that revolves around it solely because I don't believe in it (I do believe they work, but I believe heavy barbells are superior). There are other sites where you can find that info if that's what you're looking for (rosstraining, turbulence training, etc)

So the point is: do StrongLIfts 5x5. If you don't have squat rack: do Minimalist stronglifts 5x5 so you get an idea of what it can do, while you look for a gym with rack/invest in rack/build a rack. Then you jump into StrongLifts 5x5.

Feedback appreciated as always.

[Wellhairedbeast]

Great post i think we should keep encouraging people who don't think they have the equipment at home or at the gym as there is always a way around it.

I would like to add that power cleans and front squating are also great but that there is an issue of squats being limited by your ability to clean, but this is another option for those who who do not wish to use the steinborg lift. I used to do this before i trained 'properly' and had limited equipment. I also used to clean and press into a back squat but thats even more limited.

@Mehdi: Have you ever used the steinborg lift yourself? I have never heard any comments of someone using it themselves and i would be interested to hear their experiences with it ( just out of interest as i have a rack to use anyway).

[Mehdi]

Yes I've done the Steinborn Lift. Great exercise on the abs, messes with your squat technique a bit with heavier loads though (I did them with 100kg if I remember? I know it was at least 80kg, not sure about the 100kg but think so).

[holvoetn]

Yes I've done the Steinborn Lift. Great exercise on the abs, messes with your squat technique a bit with heavier loads though (I did them with 100kg if I remember? I know it was at least 80kg, not sure about the 100kg but think so).

You mean you do not keep that info in your log, Mehdi ?
(wink wink ...)

Squat stands can be made dirt-cheap.
Just some wood, buckets and concrete and presto.

I honestly do not see why people should be that bothered with the Steinborn lift when you can have squat stands for very little money.
Don't get me wrong, the Steinborn lift has it use, but why be limited because of it ? There are alternatives (maybe even free if you look around a bit).

[Wellhairedbeast]

Yes I've done the Steinborn Lift. Great exercise on the abs, messes with your squat technique a bit with heavier loads though (I did them with 100kg if I remember? I know it was at least 80kg, not sure about the 100kg but think so).

Yeah i can see hows it less than idea with heavier weights. I imagine it works the abs, particularly the obliques in a similar way to a side bend except that it would bet better perhaps as its more full body and is with a heavier weight.

[Gringo]

Mehdi, what do you think about replacing the Squats+Steinborn combo with Overhead squats? I've been on stronglifts kinda regularly for about 4 months now, and I've been doing that. Just need to add more weight to progress, but in general, do you think it's a good change?

[Mehdi]

Point of SL5x5 is to get a foundation of strength. More weight with Squats than oh squats.

[Gringo]

Thanks for the quick reply man.. I'll try to get into the normal squats as soon as possible.

[senate]

is there any chance you can post the old dumb bell routine on the site somewhere? or does someone have a link to it somwhere? i understand it's not as good as the minimalists 5x5, but i would still like to look at the routine and description of it if possible. thanks.

[Tikuane]

I'm curious, how do you get set up for the floor press without a partner?

[coine]

I'm curious, how do you get set up for the floor press without a partner?

Me, I used a "system" made from old newspapers and weight plates.



I wouldn't recommend it.

[Mehdi]

is there any chance you can post the old dumb bell routine on the site somewhere? or does someone have a link to it somwhere? i understand it's not as good as the minimalists 5x5, but i would still like to look at the routine and description of it if possible. thanks.

Nope, it's gone and I don't stand behind it. There are other routines that revolve around dumbbells out there. Check rosstraining for example.

[holvoetn]

I'm curious, how do you get set up for the floor press without a partner?

I use a metal chair as stand to pick up the weight.
I position myself in front of the chair with my head just between the posts.

Next to me (on each side), I have stacks of bricks with on top 2x2's of wood across the stacks, that setup serves as safety bars.
The total height is just below the length of my lower arm so I do not touch anything when lowering the weight.
Works for me so far.