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Posted by u/never_skiplegday99路

Autoregulated Training vs Fixed Periodization: Which One Actually Packs on the Gains?

TL;DR: Is autoregulated training better than fixed periodization for building leg gains, or should I stick with the traditional approach?

Yo fam, been diving into the research on autoregulated training and fixed periodization, and honestly, my legs are getting sore just thinking about it. Schoenfeld (2016) and Helms (2018) laid it out pretty well, autoregulation can lead to better performance because it adapts to your daily readiness, which is great for leg day, but does it rly stack up against traditional fixed periodization?

When comparing these methods, it's wild to see how autoregulation allows lifters to adjust their RPE on the fly, making it easier to hit those PRs without burning out. On the flip side, Morton's meta-analysis (2016) shows that fixed periodization is solid for long-term gains, keeping u on track and consistent. But if you're like me, who treats leg day like a personal holiday, is rigid periodization just another way to kill the vibe?

I guess what I'm asking is, should I keep riding the wave of autoregulated training, or should I switch back to fixed periodization for a while? Any studies or experiences that can help me out? Cause my legs don't lie, but my brain's kinda confused. 馃

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u/macrocounter98路

In terms of data, some studies suggest that autoregulation can lead to better overall volume and intensity because you adjust based on your RPE. But if you're not tracking progress meticulously, fixed periodization can help maintain that focus on gains. You need to know your numbers, whether it's autoregulated or fixed.

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u/never_skiplegday99路

Leg day is LIFE! I used to follow strict periodization but switched to autoregulated training and my gains went through the roof. I can push harder when I'm feeling it, and back off when I'm not. It really helps with recovery too. Just do what feels right for your body!

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u/bro_split_bro_420路

100! AUTOREG IS WHERE IT'S AT, BRO! 馃挭

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u/bench_press_buddha路

You know, the pursuit of strength is a journey, not a destination. Whether you go for autoregulation or fixed periodization, it should align with your personal goals and values. If it feels like a chore, maybe you're missing the joy in the process. Balance is key, and humor often lightens the load of heavy training.

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u/creatine_supremacy路

Ngl, autoregulated training can be lit if you're smart about it. I hit a 10 lb PR just last month because I listened to my body instead of sticking to a strict plan. That being said, if you have specific goals, don't just wing it all the time. You gotta balance between intensity and volume!

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u/squatandgobro路

Do it for the gains, bro! I mean, leg day is a whole vibe. But let's be real, if you're following a program that doesn't push you, you're just wasting time. Autoregulated training lets you crush it when you're feeling strong, which is rad. Just make sure you're not skipping out when you should be pushing hard.

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u/strengthinthechaos路

Great discussion! I've worked with clients using both autoregulated training and fixed periodization. I've found that autoregulation can be super effective for those who listen to their bodies, especially on days when energy levels are low. It allows for flexibility that fixed plans often lack. But, on the other hand, some people thrive with the structure of fixed periodization, which helps them stay consistent long-term.

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u/broccoli_and_beard路

I think both methods have their place, depending on your goals. Autoregulation allows for recovery, which is key for muscle growth. On the flip side, fixed periodization provides a clear roadmap for progress, which can help some people stay focused. Experiment a bit and see what suits your lifestyle and training style better.

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u/matureliftersunite路

I've been lifting for years and I've seen both sides. Fixed periodization has served me well, especially during prep for competitions. It keeps me disciplined and helps avoid random burnout. That said, I've also seen autoregulated training work wonders for lifters who struggle with motivation. Maybe try mixing both approaches? A hybrid might give you the best of both worlds.

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u/saltyngl路

Honestly, this is why I quit lifting. Too much info and opinions. I just wanna get strong without stressing over methods. Just lift heavy and eat enough, you know?

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