I wanted to get stronger for the summer and I started the ultimate cluster program.
My training maxes are recent and I’ve followed the program precisely. I am on a slight caloric surplus. I have done the first block (Poliquin clusters) and I should start Miller’s extensive clusters tomorrow.
As of now, with the 87.5% starting point, the deadlift progressed well, but for all other lifts,early in the cluster, I am grinding my reps and none of them are explosive. By the second set, none of the reps are explosive, even on deadlifts.
Can I lower the starting point for the next steps of the program and if so, how low can I go?
I’m just finishing my first week of the program and I found I had use less than 87.5% for squats and deads. CT says in the article, though, that you can use weights either above or below that mark and even change weights between sets:
THE PERCENTAGES ARE JUST TO GIVE YOU AN IDEA OF A STARTING POINT.
In reality you want to use a load that represents an effort of around 9/10, where maybe you could’ve gotten one more cluster rep.
SELECT THE WEIGHT BASED ON YOUR PERFORMANCE.
It’s perfectly fine to start conservatively on the first set and add weight if you can reach the top of the zone. It’s also fine to go down in weight if you overestimated your capabilities.
Do you have any advice based on your experience with the first block of the program?