Looking for strength programs

[Rankinj]

Hey guys, I'm pretty much a complete beginner when it comes to lifting. I started doing HCT-12 back in January and put on a good 15 pounds of muscle. I would like to switch to a program that is geared almost exclusively towards strength and not size. I realize I may get bigger but I'm not worried about that I just want some programs to check out that focus on strength. I'm currently looking at SL5x5. Thanks for all the help

[Brian Hopper]

Are you looking at competitive powerlifting? Two programs popped in my mind when you said your looking for a program to get strong: Westside barbell system and Jim Wendlers 5/3/1.

[Hobo Beard]

Since you are a beginner, do 5/3/1.

Westside is an excellent system, but you'll be able to successfully set up your routine with 5/3/1 being a beginner.

[Rankinj]

Hey guys thanks for the programs, I checked out 5/3/1 before and chose 5x5 over that, but I will definitely look at 5/3/1 as my next program. And no I'm not looking to be a competitive lifter, just looking to get stronger in general. I want to get very strong. My goal is 1000 pounds raw at whatever body weight I get to. I am currently about 175.

[Brian Hopper]

Either program will do even though your not looking to compete. Just stick to the program, and ask questions if your not sure of something. Good luck!!!!

[Brian C]

If your looking for strength gains and lift without a crew of guys every week, being new I definately go with 531. Jims program has been proving time and time again. Id suggest skimming some 531 journals in here and seeing the gains guys have made. One that comes to mind is Briheads log. Hes on his 17th cycle and has made outstanding progress.
http://www.wannabebig.com/forums/sho...75#post2472075

[joey54]

Check out the madcow 5x5.

[Pure Water]

My goal is exactly the same as Rankinj's, to gain strength. I've seen that there are two different 5x5 programs on the net... StrongLifts 5x5 which is the beginner version and Madcow 5x5 which they say is the intermediate program, the one you move onto next.

My question is, which one should I start with?

I've been lifting weights for a few years now, but still not very strong as my main focus when I first started was to get bigger. My current stats are:

Body Weight: 193 lbs

1RM Squat: 245 lbs
1RM Bench Press: 175 lbs
1RM Deadlift: 315 lbs (lower back was very rounded )

Also, I cannot do full deadlifts right now as beat up one of my shins pretty bad and it's still healing. I'm guessing I should just do rack pulls instead?

So again, my question is:

Which 5x5 program should I do?