Is This Too Much? Squats

[kjd2121]

Hi guys,

I am kind of using a HCT scheme on my squats and I wonder if I am over-killing myself.

Warmup - 3 min bike
135 x 6
205 x 6
240 x 6
270 x 6
295 x 6
295 x 6 -2-2-2

So that is 18 reps of 295. Would I get the same benefit if I dropped the first set of 295 x 6?

I think I will try a week without that set to see if it works. I am so exhausted after all the reps that I can barely focus on my other exercises (Calf Press and Rack Pulls).

What do you think? Am I gaining anything with 6 extra reps or have I already recruited enough muscle to grow just doing the 295 x 6 -2-2-2 as a last set?

[K Y L E]

Have you done this exact workout before? If so, did you complete it?

[chevelle2291]

your top set of 6+2+2+2 should be the only thing that matters on HCT-12. Look to progress on that.

Overthinking.

[Cards]

your top set of 6+2+2+2 should be the only thing that matters on HCT-12. Look to progress on that.

Overthinking.

agreed

[kjd2121]

Have you done this exact workout before? If so, did you complete it?

Yup - been doing it for the past 3-4 weeks - On a cut and can't progress.

I was just wondering if the first set of 295 x 6 is necessary. I guess what I'm hearing is "probably not"?? I think.... BTW I'm 50 years old so maybe I'm just overdoing things.

I think in the past I figured more was better. Maybe not. Still not clear.

[kjd2121]

your top set of 6+2+2+2 should be the only thing that matters on HCT-12. Look to progress on that.

Overthinking.

Been trying to progress on the top two sets. Is the first set necessary at 295 for recruitment of fibers for size? So can I do 12 reps @295 and get the same results as 18 reps?

[Off Road]

Yup - been doing it for the past 3-4 weeks - On a cut and can't progress.

Not suprised you can't progress if you just started a new routine and a cut at the same time.

I was just wondering if the first set of 295 x 6 is necessary.

It is NOT necessary and not even part of the HCT-12 routine. Re-read the article.

I think.... BTW I'm 50 years old so maybe I'm just overdoing things.

The amount of squatting you do is dependant on your experience and progression, NOT your age. I am turning 49 in a few months, so I'm right there with you.

I think in the past I figured more was better. Maybe not. Still not clear.

Less is better when starting, more is better as you progress.

Been trying to progress on the top two sets. Is the first set necessary at 295 for recruitment of fibers for size?

It is my belief that the ONLY important thing to do when first starting progression is to GET STRONGER. Since HCT-12 does not have built-in progression and relies on auto-regulation, it is not ideal for guys just starting out. It takes some experience under the bar to auto-regulate.

So can I do 12 reps @295 and get the same results as 18 reps?

12 reps, 18 reps, 24 reps...it's irrelevant if you are not getting stronger.