Is it ok to lift heavy on a bulk?

**workhard1** · 02-25-2009, 04:52 PM

So today I was thinking about how I am going to be attempting my first real bulk after the summer cut (I know it is early, but oh well). As I was thinking about it I realized I do not really know the basic principles of bulking. I have done a lot of research on cutting (especially from this board and built's blog). Now I was starting to wonder what kind of training is required for the bulk. I know when cutting you want to keep volume low as to not burn off too much muscle. On a bulk however you will be eating a significant amount more calories so I also then assume you must increase the training volume a decent amount as to achieve proper hypertrophy (correct?). Now, if I were to increase my training volume could I still have some lifts done 5x5? I really enjoy doing certain lifts heavy. Specifically I enjoy heavy dead lifts, t-bar rows, push press, and squats.

I guess the question would then be: Is doing exercises with heavy weights and low reps capable of achieving the proper hypertrophy needed to gain muscle on a bulk or would I be better off upping myself to 3x8 or 3x10? Thanks in advance and sorry for my lack of knowledge on bulking, I have just never attempting a true bulk before. I have always felt like I am endlessly cutting or not planning out my bulking period to the fullest.

**Hench** · 02-25-2009, 04:57 PM

Builts blog - Baby Got Back, im using it for cutting, buts its also a great bulking routine.

**Ben dur** · 02-25-2009, 07:14 PM

i think using a 5x5 would certainly be a good way to increase strength over size, but size will come with this

it is a little short in terms of (hypertrophy rep range) but if you look at some serious powerlifters, you will notice they are seriously stacked

maybe rotate through
week 1 5x5
week 2 4x8-10
week 3 3x12-14

or inverse that
3x12-14
4x8-10
5x5

you can become very familiar with the exercises before your heavier weeks

periodization is important to increasing size

**Ben dur** · 02-25-2009, 07:15 PM

in short

yes
5x5 is good for bulking

**Merkaba** · 02-25-2009, 10:22 PM

Lift heavy and rest. 5x5 and pyramids...whatever. Change it up some too. But as Lee Haney says, and I usually tell someone at least once a week: "Stimulate, not Annihilate"

**workhard1** · 02-26-2009, 04:54 PM

thanks for the feedback guys. Over the next couple weeks I am going to go ahead and plan out my bulk for fall time and I will post some of my ideas and see what you all think!

**Ben dur** · 02-26-2009, 05:04 PM

look forward to hearing from ya

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