HCT-12: Is it appropriate for an intermediate lifter? Need some help.

[chimp_53]

Hey All,

I'm 43 and have been lifting off and on for the past 20 years. More of a recreational lifter/builder. Anyhow, I need something to kick-start my growth. My current routine is a 4-day split:

Shoulders/Bi's
Chest/Tri's
Legs
Back

I incorporate regular squatting and deadlifting and, aside from warm-ups, I usually do progressive weight for each set, repping until failure (for all body parts). Typically between 5 and 10 sets per body part. I know my body pretty good, so I know when I need a day of rest, which is typically 2 days per week. So I guess I lift about 5.

I just started the HCT-12 routine, working the 5 day/week regimen (so I do more days on but less lifts per day, due to time constraints/schedule). I just finished my first week and I'm wondering if in fact this is the right routine for me. I don't "feel" like I goe a good workout, a good pump, like my normal routine.

Ramping up to your 6RM last set seems like all of the previous sets are "easy" because you don't go to failure. I fully understand that my normal routine is not taking me to the growth levels I want. So, do I stick with this routine for a while? Will it get me size? Or do I need a different routine?

To everyday people, I look like I workout (from the compliments here and there over the years). But I don't look HUGE, which is what I'm all about. Been that way all my life.

Anyone have any advice? I'm willing to try new routines as well.

Thanks very much!

[Off Road]

Give it a try for a few months...I think you'll like it.

[ELmx479]

If you want to get huge your diet is much more important than the routine you choose. Any well thought out routine will "work" if your getting proper nutrition and recovery. Having that said, you could try adding a drop set of 8-12 reps after your final cluster set of 6 +2 +2 +2 to add some pump / volume your looking for.

[Cards]

Give it a try for a few months...I think you'll like it.

this

[Kiff]

If your diet is dialled in this routine will be great for you mate

[chimp_53]

Thanks guys, I really appreciate it. That's exactly what I needed to hear. I will be sticking with it for a few months. What the heck, I've nothing to lose and everything to gain I believe.

Thanks again.

-chimp

[Jered]

Guessing you've been at it a few weeks if you started right up. How do you like it so far?