Micro loading VS traditional progressive overload

 

Progressive overload is a essential for muscle tissue growth. But sometimes when we try to progressive overload the jumps can be too high. This is where micro loading comes into play. Micro loading is as simple as it sounds. We are using micro increments instead of the standard jumps that we would normally take. Now im not saying you need to put 2.5lbs on each side of the leg press but talk to any experienced strength athlete, they will tell you, the only way to get strong is to slowly add weight to the bar overtime. Some sessions might go better than others and you might be able to progressive overload one week with 5s and the next you might have to use 2.5s. There are alot of elements that could play into what progressive overload you go with, for example if your pulling and you still have leg doms there is a good chance that your progressive overload will not be as great as if your legs were not soar. In this case you might use the 2.5s but just understand any progressive overload is a major plus. To truly progressive overload is a difficult task especially if you are honest with yourself. When you progressive overload your last rep (the rep that shows progression) should be just as smooth as your first few reps. NOT as easy but as smooth. There should’t be any point where the rep gets sloppy. If it does then the next week shouldn’t be concentrated on progressive overload but instead concentrated on executing that last rep as perfect as possible. Once that rep is properly executed then it’s time to make the decision to progressive overload and by how much.


“Your love for what you do and willingness to push yourself where others aren’t prepared to go is what will make you great.”

-Laurence Shahlaei


 
Joseph Patch