Training Philosophy

The "Shut Up and Lift" methodology: Simple, effective strength training without the industry garbage.

The Core Principle

Progressive Overload Is Everything

Getting stronger means one thing: lifting more weight over time. Not "muscle confusion." Not "feeling the burn." Not switching programs every 6 weeks. Just consistently adding weight to the bar on the fundamental movements.

The Three Pillars

1

Simplicity

Three exercises form the foundation: squat, bench press, and deadlift. These compound movements work the entire body and allow for the heaviest loads.

You don't need 17 exercises. You don't need complex exercise selection. Master the basics first. Everything else is noise.

2

Progressive Overload

Every training session, you try to do more than last time. Add weight to the bar. Add a rep. Add a set. Progress is measured in numbers, not feelings.

For beginners: Add 5 lbs to the bar every session you complete all your reps. It's that simple. No complicated periodization needed yet.

3

Consistency

Three days per week. Every week. For months and years. The program that you actually do consistently will always beat the "perfect" program you do sporadically.

Miss a workout? Pick up where you left off. Don't restart the program. Don't switch to a new program. Just keep going.

The Basic Template

This is the foundation of the "Shut Up and Lift" methodology:

3 Days Per Week Template

Day A:

  • • Squat: 3 sets x 5 reps
  • • Bench Press: 3 sets x 5 reps
  • • Deadlift: 1 set x 5 reps

Day B:

  • • Squat: 3 sets x 5 reps
  • • Overhead Press: 3 sets x 5 reps
  • • Deadlift: 1 set x 5 reps
Alternate A and B each training day: A, B, A, B, A, B...

Progression:

When you complete all sets and reps with good form, add 5 lbs to the bar next session. That's it. No overthinking required.

What This Philosophy Is NOT

Not Bodybuilding

We're focused on strength, not hypertrophy splits or muscle isolation. Building strength builds muscle, but that's not the primary goal.

Not Powerlifting (Yet)

This is beginner programming. Elite powerlifters need advanced periodization. Beginners need simple linear progression.

Not Functional Fitness

We don't do box jumps, battle ropes, or constantly varied workouts. Getting strong IS functional. Everything else is accessory.

Not "Optimal"

There's no perfect program. The optimal program is the one you'll actually follow for years. That's this one.

Why This Works

It's Actually Simple

No decision fatigue. No analysis paralysis. You know exactly what to do every training session. Show up, lift, add weight. Repeat.

It's Based on Fundamentals

Squat, bench, and deadlift are proven strength builders. They've worked for decades. They'll work for decades more. No gimmicks needed.

It's Sustainable

Three days a week fits into real life. You can train consistently for years without burning out. Sustainability beats intensity every time.

It's Measurable

Progress is objective. Did you add weight to the bar? Yes or no. No subjective "feeling stronger" nonsense. Numbers don't lie.

When You Outgrow Linear Progression

Eventually, you can't add weight every session anymore. That's normal. You're no longer a beginner—you're an intermediate lifter.

At this point, you need:

  • Weekly or monthly progression instead of session-to-session
  • Periodization (alternating volume and intensity phases)
  • More sophisticated programming
  • Strategic deload weeks

That's where coaching comes in. I can program for intermediate and advanced lifters too. But milk the beginner gains first.

Learn About Coaching

Common Objections

"Only 3 exercises? That's not enough!"

For beginners? It's more than enough. These three movements work your entire body. Adding more exercises just dilutes your focus and recovery. Master these first, then worry about accessories.

"What about arms/abs/calves?"

Squats and deadlifts work your core harder than any ab exercise. Your arms grow from pressing movements. If you must add accessories, do it after your main work. But they're not required for beginners.

"3 days per week isn't enough volume!"

For beginners adding weight every session? It's plenty. More volume doesn't mean more progress. It often means less recovery. Train hard three days, recover the other four. That's the formula.

"This seems too simple to work."

That's exactly the problem with the fitness industry. They've convinced you that complicated = effective. The truth? Simple works better because you'll actually stick with it. Try it for 3 months and see.

Ready to Stop Overcomplicating Training?

Get the book to learn the full methodology, or work with me directly for personalized programming and coaching.