Put your head down and power through.
How to Warm up to Your Max
The conventional idea that strength training involves lifting weights for multiple sets of repetitions of 8-15 is flawed. To increase strength, you must lift weights that challenge you for 1-3 reps. A great deal of information has already been written on the benefits of lifting heavy weight (see links below) , but what has seen much less discussion is the topic of how to warm up to your heavy singles, doubles, and triples.
A large part of your routine before a max attempt is going to be based on your individual preference. Some people will like a few more reps, while some will like a few less. Additionally, you will likely adjust the rep/weights according to your emotional and physical state during your session. Regardless, here is a basic warm up template you can use the next time you go for a max.
Olympic lifts (snatch, clean, and jerk) for 1-3 rep max:
6-8 reps bar, rest 1-2 minutes
4-6reps @ 40%, rest 1-2 minutes
2-4 reps @ 50%, rest 1-2 minutes
1-2 reps @ 60%, rest 1-2 minutes
1-2 reps @ 70%, rest 1-2 minutes
1 rep @ 80%, rest 1-2 minutes
1 rep @ 85%, rest 2-4 minutes
1 rep @ 90%, rest 2-4 minutes
1 rep @ 95-100%, rest 2-4 minutes*
1 rep @ 100-105%*
*See point #4 below.
What you should end up with is a 20-30 minute session where you properly warmed up the movement and allowed enough rest in between sets to properly recover before each rep. Again, this will be adjusted to how you are feeling the day of the test. Here are a few last tips to help you reach your full potential:
1. Do your homework. If you know you are going to be doing a heavy lift, get online and watch some video of professionals lifting. You can continue to visualize the good technique when you do the lift later.
2. Lift rested. If at all possible, allow yourself proper rest before your session. To test your full potential, your central nervous system and muscles need to be as rested as possible. This means 8+ hours of sleep and minimal nervous tension through the day.
3. Fuel your body. Up to this point, I’ve never had anyone puke on a single rep deadlift day. Eating nutrient-dense food 30 minutes before your lifting session will keep your energy levels high.
4. Go with your gut. Now, if you are completely new to weightlifting, this might not mean anything to you. But, if you’ve been lifting for awhile and know your way around the bar, you need to let your body do the talking. I frequently see people cutting themselves short because they are over-involved in their numbers and logbook. Numbers and this template are nothing more than tools to help you reach your potential. Use the tools correctly and you will have success.
Workout
Clean and Jerk, reach a 1RM
Follow Us!