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Posted by u/oldschool_lifter·

Drop Sets Only on Accessories: Am I Missing Out?

TL;DR: Is sticking to drop sets only for accessory lifts an outdated mindset, or is it the right call?

I've been lifting for over two decades now, and I like to think I've got a few tricks up my sleeve. I always stick to my rule: drop sets are only for accessory lifts. Why? Well, back in the day, we focused on building strength with compound lifts, and we didn't need fancy tactics to get the job done. Just a good ol' barbell and some grit!

Now, I see all these young bucks mixing drop sets into their main lifts, and I can't help but wonder if I'm missing out. Sure, they can be effective for those last few reps, but isn't that what progressive overload is for? I feel like the intensity of a proper 1RM attempt or a set of 5 on squats should be respected. Maybe it's just my old-school mindset, but I can't shake the feeling that my approach keeps my strength intact.

So, fellow lifters, what's the verdict? Am I stuck in the past by saving drop sets for accessories, or should I be open to trying them on my main lifts too? I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences!

14 comments

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u/momof2_lifting·

As a busy mom of three, I totally get the struggle! I keep my drop sets for accessories too, but once in a while, I sneak them in on my main lifts. It's just about how your body feels on that day. Sometimes, your muscles just want to work a little harder!

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u/veganrunner99·

I'm a runner and a vegan, so my lifting is kinda mixed. But I think trying drop sets could help build some strength! Plus, they're a great way to challenge yourself without spending too much time in the gym. It's all about finding what works for you.

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u/bro_split_bro_420·

Drop sets on squats? Haha, bro that's wild. I mean, you do you! But you better watch out for the DOMS, or you might regret it the next day. Get that pump!

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u/oldschool_lifter·

You know, there's a lot to be said for keeping things simple. When I started lifting, drop sets weren't even a thought in our minds. We pushed hard on our compounds and focused on getting stronger. If you're lifting heavy, respect that intensity. It builds a solid foundation. So, I get where you're coming from, but maybe don't dismiss those drop sets completely, just use them wisely.

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u/proteinpancakes22·

Bro, drop sets on main lifts? That sounds intense! But I think it could be fun to switch things up. Like, why not try it on leg day and see how you feel? Just don't overdo it on your heavy days.

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u/just_a_lifter·

I've only been lifting for a few years, but I tried drop sets on my accessories and loved them. They really help me get that extra burn. For my squats, though? I'd stick to my regular sets. Can't imagine trying to drop set those without risking my form.

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u/home_gym_hustler·

If you're considering drop sets for main lifts, maybe start with lighter weights. It's a solid way to see how ur body reacts. I built my home gym to help with variety, and adding drop sets on accessories helped me keep my routine fresh!

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u/strongmommy22·

I used to think drop sets were a no-go for main lifts too, but I tried them after my main work sets, and it was surprisingly effective! I'm a busy mom and sometimes I need that extra push. Just remember to listen to your body and not push too hard on those heavy lifts.

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u/bench_press_buddha·

I get the old-school mindset. It's all about respecting the lifts. But here's something to consider: drop sets can actually help improve endurance and muscle hypertrophy. Mindful lifting is great, but being open to different techniques can be beneficial too.

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u/gymratbutchill·

Yo, I'm all about keeping it chill. Drop sets can be dope for accessories but feel risky on heavy compounds. If you're lifting heavy, keep it solid, you know? Maybe try them occasionally and see how you feel.

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u/meat_and_lifts·

Man, if you ain't dropping weight on accessories, are you even lifting? I say hit those drop sets on accessory lifts, but keep it to your big compounds. They're sacred! Gotta keep lifting heavy for gains.

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u/muscledmomma·

I hear you! I used to think drop sets were for accessories only too. But then I tried them on my bench press after a heavy working set and wow, it added a whole new level of intensity. I'm a busy mom of four, and drop sets help me maximize my limited gym time. Just make sure to maintain form, especially on those big lifts!

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u/6footdadbod·

Look, I'm just a dad trying to keep up with the kids. I say if you want to experiment with drop sets, go for it! Just make sure you're not sacrificing your form. And if the kids are around, they might find it pretty funny watching you lift all out.

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u/zone2_nerd·

As a cardio nerd, I can say that drop sets can definitely have benefits for endurance too! I focus on hypertrophy and I believe incorporating different techniques like this can help round out your training. Just don't forget your heart health while lifting.

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