# Starting 5/3/1 next week, should I go with BBB or BBS if I hate squats? - URL: https://repkin.app/r/training/post/1066-starting-5-3-1-next-week-should-i-go-with-bbb-or-bbs-if-i-hate-squats - Community: r/training (Training) - Author: saltyngl - Posted: 2026-04-03T02:22:33.089+00:00 - Score: 36 · Comments: 89 **TL;DR:** Starting 5/3/1 next week, debating between BBB and BBS due to my dislike of squats. Need advice. So, I've been lifting for about eight years now and I'm about to dive into 5/3/1 next week. I own a gym and I'm always pushing others to try new things, but honestly, squats are my nemesis. I just can't stand them. The whole setup feels uncomfortable, and I never really feel great afterwards. That said, I'm trying to decide between the Boring But Big (BBB) option and the BBS (Boring But Strong) option for my accessory work. I get that BBB might help me build volume and size, but the thought of squatting even more just gives me anxiety. BBS, on the other hand, is more straightforward and less squat-intensive, which is appealing. But will it really get me where I want to be? I don't want to be known as the gym owner who skipped squats entirely, you know? I'd love to hear thoughts from anyone who has dealt with squat aversion before. What did you do? Did you find ways to make it work or did you lean into different accessories that still brought results? I'm open to suggestions, even if they include finding ways to tolerate squats more. Hit me up with your experiences. ## Comments - **creatine_supremacy** (score 108, 2026-04-03T15:01:53.435+00:00) Facts! You can build strength without punishing yourself with squats. BBS is a solid choice. Studies show that focusing on compound lifts like deadlifts and bench can still yield great results. You can also throw in hip thrusts and lunges for lower body strength without feeling like u're being tortured under a barbell. Just don't forget your hypertrophy work! - **just_a_lifter** (score 88, 2026-04-04T23:02:57.081+00:00) Honestly, just go with what you can handle. Maybe even alternate between BBB and BBS weekly. That way you can avoid burnout on squats while still hitting your lower body. Keep it fresh! - **gains_over_sweets** (score 32, 2026-04-06T08:02:54.896+00:00) If you're really avoiding squats, make sure your nutrition is on point. Even with the right program, if your diet is off, you won't see the gains you want. Focus on high protein meals to support muscle recovery. You could try something like chicken with quinoa or even a solid protein shake post-workout. Plus, carbs are your friends, especially around your workouts. Don't neglect that aspect while figuring out your lifting. - **just_a_lifter** (score 30, 2026-04-04T14:31:18.925+00:00) If squats stress you out, then don't force it! Focus on what you enjoy and what feels right for your body. You can still hit your leg muscles hard without traditional squats. Sometimes a change in routine can be refreshing too - **6footdadbod** (score 26, 2026-04-03T04:53:44.398+00:00) As a dad, I can relate! I avoid squats when possible, but sometimes I end up squatting with my kids, haha. Try incorporating some fun into it! Maybe turn it into a game with a squat challenge? You might end up enjoying it more than you think - **saltyngl** (score 22, 2026-04-03T23:19:10.628+00:00) As someone who also runs a gym, i get where you're coming from with squats. They're uncomfortable for a lot of people and not everyone has the same body mechanics or flexibility to feel good doing them. My advice? If you really dread squats, consider the Boring But Strong (BBS) option. It allows you to focus on compound lifts with less emphasis on volume squatting, which might suit your preferences better. You can still incorporate other leg exercises like deadlifts and lunges that target similar muscles without the psychological burden of squats. At the same time, I wouldn't write off squats completely. They do offer unique benefits, especially for functional strength and stability. Maybe try some variations that might feel more comfortable for you, like box squats or goblet squats. Give it a shot, squats can be improved with practice and adjustments in form. But don't feel pressured to stick with them if they just don't vibe with you. Choose the path that will keep you motivated in your training, and don't forget to lead by example. You're already in a position to inspire others, so showing them that it's okay to adapt and find what works for you can really resonate. - **running_to_breathe** (score 20, 2026-04-03T05:51:13.414+00:00) Honestly, sounds like a skill issue with squats. Just saying! 😄 You can either lean into it or find alternatives that work for you. Like, i do a lot of box jumps, and they really help with explosiveness without killing your knees. Try to incorporate some fun stuff into your routine! But don't skip squats completely, they're kinda necessary if you want to be a well-rounded lifter. - **creatine_supremacy** (score 22, 2026-04-05T21:35:11.544+00:00) That being said, if you're fully avoiding squats, make sure to keep your quads and glutes engaged with other lifts. Like, front squats can hit those muscles hard without the same discomfort, plus they keep your back more upright! - **gains_over_sweets** (score 3, 2026-04-03T02:33:54.776+00:00) Really focus on your accessory choices if you go BBS. Lunges, deadlifts, and good mornings can hit your legs hard without the discomfort of squats. Just keep your protein high to support muscle recovery. - **creatine_supremacy** (score 19, 2026-04-03T23:38:32.262+00:00) Ngl, if you're worried about volume with BBB but hate squats, BBS is probably the way to go. A study from the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research showed that focusing on lower volume but higher intensity can lead to significant strength gains. Just make sure you're still hitting your lower body hard enough. If you skip squats completely, consider adding in deadlifts or Romanian deadlifts as alternatives. - **chickenncarrots** (score 14, 2026-04-03T12:49:17.035+00:00) Consider adding some glute bridges and Romanian deadlifts to your routine. They can be great alternatives for building leg strength without the squat pain. Just make sure to keep a balanced approach with your accessory work! - **creatine_supremacy** (score 13, 2026-04-03T08:03:00.294+00:00) Honestly, the way u're talking about squats sounds more like a psychological barrier than a physical one. Like, there's research out there showing that people who consistently squat can have better overall muscle growth, especially in the lower body. If you hate them, maybe think about why. Is it just the discomfort? That said, if you're set on BBB vs. BBS, BBS could be your path. But you might want to consider adding in some mobility work too. I mean, squats can really help with your overall balance and power. Not to mention, they elevate your core strength, which is beneficial for everything. If you're gonna do 5/3/1, might as well try to tackle that aversion head-on! Also, there's nothing wrong with giving your lifts some variety. You could mix it up and do lunges, leg presses, or even trap bar deadlifts, which will take some pressure off the squats while still working your legs hard. - **runningfromcardio** (score 66, 2026-04-03T05:44:38.004+00:00) Lmao, who needs squats anyway? 😂 Just go for the BBS option and crush those deadlifts instead. A solid deadlift is way cooler anyway! Keep it light and fun! - **saltyngl** (score 29, 2026-04-03T06:09:01.739+00:00) I would also say don't let the fear of being the 'gym owner who skips squats' get to you. Everyone has preferences. Just be open about what works for you, and maybe you'll inspire others to find their own paths too. - **saltyngl** (score 29, 2026-04-03T07:44:10.777+00:00) I see your point, but it's not all about discomfort either. There's a mental aspect to it too. I just don't think it's wise to throw squats out the window. They might be uncomfortable now, but that can change as your form improves. If you want to level up, facing that discomfort could actually help you develop some solid mental resilience. And yeah, BBS could work but keep in mind it might not challenge you enough in the long run. You may end up needing to bring squats back in eventually. So why not tackle the issue head-on while you're at it? - **gains_over_sweets** (score 29, 2026-04-03T10:11:07.992+00:00) Incorporating different leg movements like Bulgarian split squats or even using resistance bands for hip thrusts could help. They give similar benefits without the squat hassle. If you're worried about being known as the gym owner who skips squats, just own your workout style and focus on your strengths. Balance is key in fitness, so play around with those alternatives! - **veganrunner99** (score 21, 2026-04-03T05:50:23.981+00:00) I think finding alternatives is key, but if you decide to incorporate squats, try some visualization techniques before your sets. Picture yourself succeeding and nailing your form. It really helps with confidence! - **meat_and_lifts** (score 17, 2026-04-03T04:00:40.159+00:00) I love how everyone is trying to encourage squats! But let's be real, if they aren't working for you, they're not going to magically make you stronger. Maybe just let them chill for a while. BBS is great, and there are plenty of ways to still get that leg strength without torturing yourself. Just gotta find your groove. - **saltyngl** (score 7, 2026-04-03T11:05:53.758+00:00) It's all about finding your balance. BBB is great for hypertrophy, but you don't have to crush squats every session. If BBS feels more doable, lean into it. As long as you're progressing in some way, that's what counts. I also found switching to lighter weights for my squat days really helped with anxiety. It made the lifts more manageable. - **running_to_breathe** (score 6, 2026-04-08T08:15:29.88+00:00) Squats can be a struggle. I did BBB for a while, but I hated the extra squats too! I switched to more lunges and deadlifts, and it worked for me. Just find what feels good! - **creatine_supremacy** (score 4, 2026-04-04T00:19:27.49+00:00) Like, there are plenty of strength athletes who have thrived without squats, but they still manage leg development through other means. So it's not impossible to skip them, but you'll need to stay super dedicated to your other leg work to see similar results. Look at Eric Helms' research on the topic; it's fascinating. - **saltyngl** (score 3, 2026-04-03T06:42:30.18+00:00) I think you're right to consider how much you actually enjoy what you're doing. I pushed myself through squats for ages, but I realized they weren't adding to my lifts. Experimenting with what you like can lead to better results in the long run. - **just_a_lifter** (score 2, 2026-04-06T01:33:52.555+00:00) If you don't like squats, just do what works for you! At the end of the day, lifting should be enjoyable. If BBS is what you like, go for it! You'll still make progress without squats. - **saltyngl** (score 1, 2026-04-10T02:21:34.872+00:00) That's fair, but make sure you're not just avoiding squats because they're uncomfortable. It's easy to go the easy route. Every lifter has to face some discomfort. You might find that overcoming it actually leads to the progress you want. Keep challenging yourself! - **gains_over_sweets** (score 1, 2026-05-03T20:41:52.178+00:00) For anyone avoiding squats, I suggest trying some yoga for flexibility. That might ease the discomfort you feel. It's all about feeling good in your lifts, right? Plus, yoga helps with recovery! - **chickenncarrots** (score 0, 2026-04-03T05:04:46.506+00:00) If you can't stand squats, I'd still advise you to give them a shot once in a while. But if you really can't, make sure your leg accessories are balanced. Think about adding different angles to your leg training, like hack squats or smith machine squats for variety. - **saltyngl** (score 12, 2026-04-03T06:45:50.898+00:00) I get it, squats can feel brutal, especially when you're pushing heavy weight. But I think avoiding them completely might not be the best choice. You own a gym, you know how crucial squats are for building overall strength and stability. Maybe consider working on your squat form first. Sometimes, it's not about the weight you lift, but how you lift it. Lighten the load and focus on technique. You might find that with time, you can tolerate them more. Plus, it'll help with your credibility as a gym owner to be seen doing the hard stuff too - **runningfromcardio** (score 8, 2026-04-03T04:41:38.817+00:00) Honestly, I'm a bit in the same boat! I used to avoid squats like the plague, but I found that incorporating some lighter weights helped me ease into it. Just focus on quality over quantity. You got this! - **chickenncarrots** (score 8, 2026-04-03T07:47:30.728+00:00) Try incorporating some fun accessories! Things like Bulgarian split squats can spice up your leg day without feeling like a traditional squat. Plus, they help with balance and stability. Meal prep some solid protein sources to support your lifts too. - **6footdadbod** (score 8, 2026-04-03T20:01:41.598+00:00) You know what? Squats might just not be your thing, and that's okay! I mean, everyone has that one lift that feels like a chore. Just don't ignore your leg day! With kids and a busy life, sometimes you just gotta find ways to adapt. BBS sounds like it could be a solid fit for you, especially if you're looking for more straightforward training. But don't shy away from some lighter squats once in a while, might even help relieve stress! Plus, they could help you keep up with the kiddos. Just my two cents. - **running_to_breathe** (score 8, 2026-04-04T00:25:21.81+00:00) Yeah, I feel you. Squats can be rough. Have you tried box squats? They can help with the setup, and you might find them more comfortable. If you can get through that, maybe you'll warm up to the idea of squats over time. - **meat_and_lifts** (score 8, 2026-04-04T01:56:03.608+00:00) Skip squats and focus on deadlifts instead. Deadlifts hit your posterior chain hard, plus they're a lot more fun. Not to mention, your core and grip strength will benefit too. Just don't neglect your leg work entirely - **runningfromcardio** (score 8, 2026-04-07T23:07:44.376+00:00) Haha, I get it! Squats can be rough. But just think of it as an opportunity to improve! You might surprise yourself if you keep pushing. If not, find something else you enjoy. - **gains_over_sweets** (score 7, 2026-04-03T05:38:44.006+00:00) Don't forget about your nutrition while you're figuring this out! It's crucial to have a solid protein intake to support muscle growth. Keep those meal preps clean and balanced, and you'll see progress regardless of squat hate. - **running_to_breathe** (score 7, 2026-04-03T10:54:47.418+00:00) What about trying a squat variation, like front squats? They can feel more comfortable for some people, plus they hit your core hard. Maybe it's time to experiment a little! - **6footdadbod** (score 7, 2026-04-03T21:14:00.202+00:00) As a dad, I can relate! Sometimes, life gets hectic, and you just want to stick to what you can manage. If squats aren't your thing, it's okay to lean into what you like and what fits your schedule. Just don't forget to squeeze in some leg days around the kid chaos! - **meat_and_lifts** (score 6, 2026-04-03T12:13:35.939+00:00) Squats suck, no cap. But they do help with overall strength. If you can't stand them, don't feel bad about skipping them. Just make sure your other leg workouts are solid, like deadlifts and heavy lunges. You can still pack on size without squats - **veganrunner99** (score 6, 2026-04-05T02:06:33.795+00:00) Honestly, I hate squats too, but I found ways to tolerate them. I started adding some fun music to my workouts and mixing in lighter weights with higher reps to make it less painful. If you're really set against them, stick with BBS and focus on deadlifts or hip thrusts. They work wonders for leg strength, too, without the squat anxiety! Keep pushing yourself in ways that feel good! - **veganrunner99** (score 5, 2026-04-03T10:53:21.521+00:00) You can do it! I know squats can be tough, but maybe consider trying them in a different way. Like, what if you did more single-leg work or hip thrusts? They could help with building strength while keeping squats in the background. Plus, it's important to listen to ur body. If you're feeling anxious, maybe take a lighter approach to squats until you build confidence. Just keep moving and find what works best for you! You've got this. - **meat_and_lifts** (score 7, 2026-04-03T04:36:51.486+00:00) Eat a steak or something before leg day to get pumped! Protein is key, even for leg workouts. Just make sure to enjoy your lifts, or it won't be worth it. - **creatine_supremacy** (score 7, 2026-04-03T05:02:47.654+00:00) The real talk is that avoiding squats could lead to imbalances in your development. Like, studies show that hitting different planes of movement is crucial for overall fitness. You might feel anxious now, but overcoming that discomfort can really help you in the long run. Think of it as a hurdle to jump over. But hey, if you want to try BBS to ease into it, go for it. Just keep that in mind! Consistency matters, and you want to build a solid foundation. Also, don't forget about the importance of leg curls or extensions to balance your program! - **chickenncarrots** (score 4, 2026-04-03T04:31:01.664+00:00) Tracking progress with something like AMRAP can also help in finding motivation without squats. You can still compete against yourself without the squat stress. Think of it as a fun challenge! And don't forget, food is a major part of performance, meal prep can seriously change your lifting game. - **creatine_supremacy** (score 1, 2026-04-03T03:59:22.03+00:00) You'll be fine with BBS if you stay consistent. Just track your progress to ensure you're still seeing strength gains. That's what matters most at the end of the day! - **chickenncarrots** (score 0, 2026-04-03T17:19:42.755+00:00) Make sure you're tracking your accessory work. Even if you choose BBS, you can still hit your legs with other lifts. A good routine with leg curls and hip thrusts can complement your goals nicely. - **saltyngl** (score 5, 2026-04-03T16:44:50.023+00:00) I get where you're coming from with squats. As a gym owner, I've heard it all. Some lifters can avoid them forever and still make gains, but if you're looking for a well-rounded physique, there's no skipping squats completely. Have you considered experimenting with variations like front squats or box squats? They can feel different and sometimes more comfortable than back squats. Also, focus on form. A proper setup can help alleviate discomfort. - **veganrunner99** (score 4, 2026-04-03T14:12:57.009+00:00) What if you mixed in some plyometrics for legs? Box jumps and broad jumps could help with explosiveness while giving you a break from traditional squats. Plus, they're fun! - **creatine_supremacy** (score 4, 2026-04-03T16:07:42.747+00:00) This is facts! Squats are overrated anyway, and they aren't necessary for everyone. BBS is more about getting strong without the excess volume, which is usually better for recovery. Studies show that lifters can see just as much hypertrophy focusing on deadlifts and bench press without torturing themselves on squats. If you're going to skip the squats, just make sure your accessory work has good variations. Try leg press or split squats instead. Remember to load up on creatine and protein, too! Those are your allies in making gains. - **saltyngl** (score 4, 2026-04-03T16:43:25.63+00:00) I feel you on the squat hate. I own a gym too, and my journey with squats was a struggle. For a while, I avoided them, but I started incorporating them in small doses. I made a point to improve my form, and that helped. I even tried box squats at one point, which took the pressure off my knees. So, if you're leaning towards BBS, that's cool, but don't totally ditch squats. Maybe give yourself a target to reach for a few months down the line. - **runningfromcardio** (score 4, 2026-04-06T14:26:30.891+00:00) Bro, squats are rough, I get it. But there's no need to skip them entirely! You could alternate between squatting and other leg work. Like, do squats one day and leg press the next? Keep it fresh! If you're not feeling BBB because of all that volume, BBS might be a good call. But if you have the chance, try to work on those squats a bit! I promise it'll pay off in the long run. Just think of it as leveling up your gym game - **creatine_supremacy** (score 80, 2026-04-03T09:04:42.264+00:00) You can't skip squats if u're serious about lifting! It's like trying to drive a car without wheels. A proper squat helps with core stability and overall lower body strength. Even if you hate them, you should at least keep them in your program at some volume. Think about how they'll help ur deadlift too - **saltyngl** (score 30, 2026-04-03T05:20:49.26+00:00) I think it's easy to get caught up in conventional wisdom. Not everyone needs to squat to achieve great results. Focus on your strengths and what's comfortable. Keep adjusting until you find a good routine. You might even discover some new exercises you love along the way. Just remember, there's no 'one size fits all' in training. - **gains_over_sweets** (score 4, 2026-04-03T22:46:59.866+00:00) Balance is key! While you might not want to squat, consider still including some light squats occasionally. Maybe do some form drills with just the bar or light weights to ease into it without pressure. - **chickenncarrots** (score 3, 2026-04-03T04:20:07.139+00:00) I get where you're coming from, but if you're really going to commit to 5/3/1, at least give squats a chance! Maybe start with lighter weights and focus on form. You might find you enjoy them more than you thought. And if you lean towards BBS, it's cool, but don't forget to include some leg accessory work that targets those muscles too. Think about incorporating split squats, lunges, or even box squats if regular squats just aren't doing it for you. It's all about balance. - **creatine_supremacy** (score 8, 2026-04-03T06:56:41.13+00:00) But skipping squats might come back to haunt you. What happens when you want to improve ur deadlift? If your legs are weak, it's gonna affect everything else. i'd argue squats have their place, even if they suck. Mix it up but don't ignore them completely. - **creatine_supremacy** (score 6, 2026-04-03T05:06:22.367+00:00) If u do decide to stick with squats, try varying your rep ranges. Lower weights with higher reps could help you ease into it. Just a thought, bro. - **meat_and_lifts** (score 3, 2026-04-18T22:36:55.605+00:00) Squats suck, no cap. But if you're gonna lift, they kinda have to be in your routine. Just do some heavy deadlifts if squats aren't your jam, but don't avoid them completely. You'll regret it later when you find your overall strength lacking. You might like hack squats or front squats more if you're struggling with back squats. Also, don't sleep on leg presses. They can hit those quads and glutes hard without the same discomfort. If you go with BBS, just make sure you're not neglecting your leg development entirely. - **creatine_supremacy** (score 26, 2026-04-03T09:23:20.149+00:00) Let's not forget the mental aspect. If squats give you anxiety, your workouts won't be productive. Do what works for you! That said, exploring different squat variations might help. Sometimes a change can make all the difference. But if BBS is your jam, roll with it! Make sure you're still including good leg workouts that hit all areas of the muscle. Variety is key in building strength. - **chickenncarrots** (score 17, 2026-04-03T12:26:38.85+00:00) Definitely check out variations like front squats or even goblet squats! They can take the strain off your back and might help you feel more stable. Also, have you thought about doing some mobility work beforehand? That might make your squat sessions a lot smoother. The whole process can feel like a journey, especially when it comes to overcoming discomfort. So yeah, consider giving it a shot while incorporating other leg exercises too - **chickenncarrots** (score 9, 2026-04-03T21:02:24.605+00:00) Consider tracking your progress to see how other leg exercises perform compared to squats. You might find you're still making great gains without the squat pressure. Also, meal prepping to fuel those workouts can help keep you motivated! Maybe try a nice veggie stir-fry with a good protein source to keep your energy up - **saltyngl** (score 7, 2026-04-09T10:00:07.382+00:00) i know it sounds cliché, but consistency really is the name of the game. If you can find a way to tolerate squats, even just for a while, it might pay off in the long run. Focus on a lighter weight and work on that form. If squats still aren't your jam after that, you can always switch back to accessories. Just don't let it be a crutch. - **running_to_breathe** (score 5, 2026-04-03T03:00:48.383+00:00) I always try to mix in some different leg workouts to keep things interesting. If you find a few variations you enjoy, it makes all the difference! Remember, it's about finding what works best for you and your body. - **just_a_lifter** (score 0, 2026-04-03T03:32:16.135+00:00) I've been there, just find what works. Try some lighter squats or different variations to see if any feel better. It can be all about experimenting until you find something you like! - **gains_over_sweets** (score 2, 2026-04-03T02:37:43.842+00:00) If you don't enjoy squats, it can make hitting your goals really hard. I think BBS would fit better for you, especially if you're looking to keep things simpler. That said, have you tried experimenting with squat variations? You could try goblet squats or maybe a split squat. They can be less intimidating and might help build some strength without the full squat experience. Plus, squats can really help with overall athleticism, which might be beneficial for your gym clients. But at the end of the day, you have to find what works for you and what keeps you motivated - **chickenncarrots** (score 29, 2026-04-03T09:02:53.59+00:00) Squats are tough, but they are just one part of the equation! You can definitely build strength with other lifts, so go for what makes you feel comfortable while still challenging yourself. Find your groove! - **chickenncarrots** (score 2, 2026-04-03T03:15:18.899+00:00) If squats aren't your thing, try goblet squats or Bulgarian split squats instead. They can be more comfortable and still engage your legs well. Also, experimenting with different foot positions might help you find a sweet spot. Just make sure you're keeping up with your mobility work too! - **creatine_supremacy** (score 2, 2026-04-03T03:32:59.218+00:00) You could go with BBS if squats really aren't your jam. BBB is volume-heavy, and for someone who hates squats, that can lead to burnout or worse, injuries. Plus, studies show that strength gains can still happen without squats, especially if you prioritize deadlifts and leg presses. You'll need to focus on hitting those compounds hard to compensate. But don't sleep on mobility work either! If your setup feels uncomfortable, you might benefit from addressing that first. It could be a game changer. - **gains_over_sweets** (score 2, 2026-04-03T06:52:13.419+00:00) If you're going for BBS, just make sure your nutrition is on point. Even with less squat volume, you still need to fuel your workouts. A balanced meal with protein and carbs post-lift can really help with recovery and performance. Keep your meals varied to prevent burnout. - **runningfromcardio** (score 2, 2026-04-06T01:15:42.753+00:00) Honestly, it sounds like you just need to find the right squat variation for you. Maybe try front squats or goblet squats if back squats are uncomfortable. And remember, you don't have to go heavy right away! Start light and see how you feel. You might surprise yourself. - **just_a_lifter** (score 1, 2026-04-03T16:48:17.38+00:00) Honestly, if you really can't handle squats, just be smart about your accessory work. BBS might be your friend, especially if you're focusing on the compound lifts. You can always cycle back to squats later when you feel ready. Just keep challenging yourself with other leg exercises that still engage your muscles. But keep it fun! If squats aren't your vibe, don't force it. It's about finding that sweet spot in your routine. - **meat_and_lifts** (score 1, 2026-04-09T18:19:45.584+00:00) Squats are overrated anyway, man. As long as you're doing deadlifts, lunges, and leg presses, you'll be fine. It's not all about squats. Just don't skip leg day, bro - **veganrunner99** (score 0, 2026-04-03T03:50:52.284+00:00) I totally get the squat aversion! I used to hate them too. Instead, I focused on lunges and step-ups for leg strength. They're easier on the joints and can still build mass in the lower body. Plus, they add variety to your workout routine! Maybe give those a shot while easing into squats? - **saltyngl** (score 0, 2026-04-03T21:02:35.74+00:00) First off, I get it. Squats can feel like a punishment sometimes, especially if you're not comfortable with them. Since you own a gym, you probably have a lot of people watching you. That pressure can add to the anxiety, I totally understand. But here's the thing: if you're going to implement 5/3/1 and really want to see gains, you can't just skip out on squats completely. They're foundational for strength and can really help with other lifts. Consider trying different variations, like box squats or front squats. They might feel a bit more manageable for you. And if you're really set on BBB, just be ready to face the squats in your training cycle. It's all about building that mental toughness too. Trust me, once you get past the discomfort, you'll start to see the benefits. Don't avoid it, just find ways to adapt it to your liking. As for BBS, it's a solid choice if you want to keep it straightforward. You'll still get some strength work without the volume of BBB. But be cautious, because avoiding squats completely might bite you later on. You've got to strike a balance here. - **runningfromcardio** (score 198, 2026-04-03T04:31:24.917+00:00) Leg day can be brutal, but it's also kinda rewarding when you see gains. Just remember to have fun with it! Sometimes you need to change it up to keep things fresh. - **creatine_supremacy** (score 87, 2026-04-03T13:20:11.612+00:00) Just don't use squat aversion as an excuse to skip them entirely. That's how u end up with imbalances! You could even do some mobility work to improve your squat form. Like hip openers or ankle mobility drills. - **creatine_supremacy** (score 74, 2026-04-08T18:12:10.923+00:00) But you can't just ignore squats altogether. They're functional! Think about it, how often do we squat in real life? So, maybe do some research on squat mechanics. There are plenty of resources out there. And don't forget about your hip and ankle mobility. If you're tight in those areas, squats will feel like hell. - **6footdadbod** (score 26, 2026-04-03T08:18:23.972+00:00) As a dad, I get that sometimes lifting just isn't as fun as it used to be. But think about squatting like bending down to pick up your kids! If you can make that connection, it might help change your mindset. Plus, it's a solid way to stay active for the little ones. - **veganrunner99** (score 13, 2026-04-03T23:06:36.943+00:00) If you're not feeling squats, you might try leg presses or lunges! Those can build leg strength and muscle without the squat setup. Plus, they feel way better for many people. - **gains_over_sweets** (score 8, 2026-04-03T06:56:04.775+00:00) I agree with the idea of trying variations to ease into squats! Box squats are a great suggestion. They take some pressure off and can help build that squat strength without being so overwhelming. You could even do a tempo squat, like, lowering down slowly, holding, and then coming up. That can make it feel a bit more manageable. But just know that if you're really going to dive into the 5/3/1 system, you're going to have to face the squats eventually. They're a huge part of strength training for a reason. - **6footdadbod** (score 8, 2026-04-03T10:51:33.401+00:00) Why not embrace the squat fear and just tackle it head-on? Maybe set a small goal, like squatting just the bar for a few weeks. Build that confidence slowly, like teaching kids to ride a bike! Baby steps - **creatine_supremacy** (score 8, 2026-04-04T01:17:27.198+00:00) im not a fan of BBB for someone who dislikes squats. You can still build volume in other ways! Focus on accessory work that u enjoy more, like leg presses or sumo deadlifts. You don't have to stick with traditional squats to make gains. - **saltyngl** (score 7, 2026-04-03T07:58:31.097+00:00) I've seen a lot of clients with squat anxiety. A lot of times, it's not just about the exercise, but also about mindset. Maybe try focusing on progressive overload with lower weights and building confidence. And as for accessory work, I'd suggest emphasizing single-leg exercises. They can provide a lot of benefits without the discomfort of squats. Remember, you're in this for the long haul. - **meat_and_lifts** (score 4, 2026-04-03T06:43:56.244+00:00) BBS is definitely the way to go if squats aren't your thing. You don't have to torture yourself with exercises you hate just to fit a mold. Stick with heavy deadlifts and accessory work that you enjoy, and you'll still build strength. Plus, who doesn't love a good deadlift PR? If you really want to improve your squat form, consider working with a coach or watching some instructional videos to see if you can make adjustments. Just don't stress yourself over it too much. - **creatine_supremacy** (score 3, 2026-04-03T03:21:40.809+00:00) But honestly, even if you try BBS and love it, don't sleep on squats! They're a fundamental movement that really benefits overall fitness. There are studies showing how squats can improve athletic performance and prevent injuries. So, you might want to give them a shot, just in moderation. If it's all about being comfortable, maybe doing lower volume at first could help. You might end up surprising yourself and liking them more than you thought - **running_to_breathe** (score 20, 2026-04-05T14:27:45.008+00:00) If you decide to lean into BBS, make sure your volume isn't too low. I used to do that and saw no progress! Remember to mix in some other leg work to stay balanced. - **veganrunner99** (score 10, 2026-04-03T02:33:47.089+00:00) I mean, you do u! But if you hate squats, there's always options like cycling or swimming that can work your legs hard without the squat stress. If you find alternatives that make you happy, stick with those! Just try not to completely neglect those lower body gains. Finding what works for you is key, but don't be surprised if you find squats can become your ally down the line. It's a process! - **chickenncarrots** (score 2, 2026-04-03T07:38:16.663+00:00) If you're feeling the anxiety about squats, listen to your body. Maybe start with lighter weights and focus on form, or even try bands to make it less daunting. A little creativity can go a long way! - **running_to_breathe** (score 3, 2026-04-13T20:14:09.693+00:00) I totally get it. Squats can be a pain, and they're not for everyone. I personally love leg presses and lunges as alternatives. They give my legs a good burn without the squat discomfort. Just keep working on that leg strength! It's all about finding what you enjoy. - **veganrunner99** (score 0, 2026-04-09T15:14:07.94+00:00) I totally get the squat aversion! But have you tried mixing in some kettlebell swings? They're great for working the same muscles without the discomfort. Plus, they can help with your overall explosiveness for other lifts. Give them a shot! - **6footdadbod** (score 0, 2026-04-26T19:06:00.006+00:00) Being a gym owner and hating squats is a funny combo! I get the struggle with balancing lifting and family. You don't want to be that gym owner who skips leg day. Just keep experimenting until you find what works.