Eccentric-Only Lifts to Train for Heavier Weights

Training 5/3/1
1

Hi Jim,

What are your thoughts on eccentric only lifts as a way to train the body to handle heavier loads? Is this something you’ve tried/seen a benefit from?

I’m curious if adding eccentric singles @ say 110%-115% of TM after the 5/3/1 sets, but before assistance work would be beneficial? Could they be done as a final Joker sets or is that counterproductive?

Thanks,
Chris

2

I believe they are a joke and should be avoided like a heroin abusing hooker. But if this is what makes you strong as hell because squatting, pressing and doing heavy pulls have failed to make you stronger, I’m all for it.

I have never been strong enough to use such tactics in my training. However, I was not advanced and still am not. So you may be different because of your background and current levels of strength. Good luck!

3

Speaking from personal experience, Throughout July and early August I kept trying to hit 300 for 2 on bench press and could never get it despite getting 295 for two. I did heavy eccentric, up to 375 for a couple weeks to see if it would help. It did nothing for me. I then started 531 after that to try and break the plateau, and a few cycles in, I hit 305 for 3 reps!

4

[quote]Jim Wendler wrote:
I believe they are a joke and should be avoided like a heroin abusing hooker. But if this is what makes you strong as hell because squatting, pressing and doing heavy pulls have failed to make you stronger, I’m all for it.

I have never been strong enough to use such tactics in my training. However, I was not advanced and still am not. So you may be different because of your background and current levels of strength. Good luck! [/quote]

Ha, nope definitely not.

Thanks!