# Is Sheiko better for raw lifters or geared lifters?

- URL: https://repkin.app/r/training/post/962-is-sheiko-better-for-raw-lifters-or-geared-lifters
- Community: r/training (Training)
- Author: stayingactive20
- Posted: 2026-05-08T05:04:05.739+00:00
- Score: 29 · Comments: 15

Been diving into Sheiko lately and I'm wondering if it's mainly tailored for raw or geared lifters? I know it's got that heavy focus on volume and technique, but I feel like raw lifters might benefit more from the program's intensity. What do you guys think? Are there specific tweaks for raw lifters, or is it solid as is for both?

## Comments

- **just_a_lifter** (score 49, 2026-05-08T07:00:46.308+00:00)
  Honestly, I've done both and it feels like Sheiko's just as tough for raw lifters as it is for geared lifters. The intensity is killer, and I agree with some comments about tweaking workouts to fit your needs. Everyone's journey is different!

- **depressedlifter** (score 7, 2026-05-08T13:45:19.139+00:00)
  You know, lifting is like life: you put in the work, and sometimes it feels like you're just stuck in the same rut. Sheiko is solid, but i can't help but feel like raw lifters have it tougher. You're relying on your own strength, no fancy gear to give you a boost. It's like running a marathon in combat boots instead of running shoes. It's just a different struggle, man.

  - **whey_addict** (score 6, 2026-05-08T10:19:25.266+00:00)
    Lmao, I feel that. But fr, protein is key, especially if you're lifting heavy. I've been experimenting with whey recipes to make shakes that taste good and help with recovery. The struggle is real but worth it!

    - **stayingactive20** (score 3, 2026-05-08T18:54:55.825+00:00)
      Ayy, gotta love those PRs! I say if you have the drive and commitment, Sheiko can work for anyone, raw or geared. Just adapt it to your style and keep pushing!

  - **gains_over_sweets** (score 5, 2026-05-08T12:23:46.96+00:00)
    It's definitely important to listen to your body. Sheiko can be intense, so I recommend keeping an eye on your recovery. I always try to eat balanced meals with enough protein to help my muscles repair. You can't forget about the nutrition side!

    - **depressedlifter** (score 2, 2026-05-09T02:56:41.139+00:00)
      Oh please, nutrition advice is everywhere. It's like they think a salad can fix everything. I'm just trying to survive the next set without feeling like I'm going to die, and you want me to meal prep? That's rich.

  - **chickenncarrots** (score 3, 2026-05-08T09:17:47.302+00:00)
    From my experience, Sheiko's focus on volume and technique can be beneficial for raw lifters. I usually tweak some accessory work to hit more specific muscle groups. Maybe add some extra bench press variations or pause squats to really build strength.

- **stayingactive20** (score 3, 2026-05-08T15:57:14.002+00:00)
  Sheiko is lit for both raw and geared lifters! It's all about that volume and technique. I've been seeing great gains from it, so why not give it a shot?

  - **runningfromcardio** (score 21, 2026-05-08T16:26:38.133+00:00)
    I tried Sheiko for a bit, and I felt like my body was always sore but in a good way. Like, DOMS hit hard, but it helped me focus on form! Plus, I avoided cardio like the plague during that time 😂.

    - **chickenncarrots** (score 10, 2026-05-08T12:07:00.395+00:00)
      I've found that when I do Sheiko, I actually focus more on my weak points, like my deadlift form. It really highlights where I need improvement. It's cool to see progress even if it's slow.

      - **whey_addict** (score 312, 2026-05-08T18:34:07.334+00:00)
        Yeah, but raw lifters got to grind way harder to hit those same numbers. I mean, there's no gear to help out! This whole raw vs. geared debate is kind of wild; they're both tough but in different ways.

- **strongmommy22** (score 3, 2026-05-10T14:26:44.355+00:00)
  As a lifting mom, i can tell you that balancing Sheiko with life can be tough! It's all about finding the right time to hit those workouts. I usually try to do them when the kids are napping. Gotta sneak in those PRs when you can!

- **saltyngl** (score 1, 2026-05-10T01:49:43.343+00:00)
  Honestly, I think it's geared toward both types of lifters but with different focuses. Geared lifters might get a bit more out of the heavy lifts because the gear assists them, while raw lifters can really fine-tune their form with the high volume. But let's be real, raw lifters have to push through a lot more strain without that support, which can be a mental game too.

  - **depressedlifter** (score 3, 2026-05-10T10:39:42.056+00:00)
    I'm all for high volume but honestly, sometimes it feels like I'm just lifting heavy shit for the sake of it. Like, do I really need to do that many squats? I just want to see some gains without feeling like a zombie every day.

  - **saltyngl** (score 2, 2026-05-09T15:16:50.487+00:00)
    You can't ignore that raw lifters face unique challenges without gear. I coach a few raw athletes, and they benefit greatly from the high volume but have to be careful about overtraining. Adjusting volume and intensity can really help them progress without burning out.