Cathe PLB weight limit question? and why 12,10, 8 reps?

[kittykat]

Hi Cathe,
I have recently returned to heavier lifting and am doing PLB/PUB and Pure Strength. My question is for PLB I can do the squats, lunges and deads, with 40, 40, and 50 lbs, in the pyramids with ease. I need to go heavier but cannot get over 50 lbs. above my head to get it on my shoulders. What should I do? I am trying to increase my upper body strength but until then? I can hold the barbel at my hips for lunges but that doesnt work well for squats.
Question 2 Why are the reps 12, 10, and 8, to build muscle would it not be better to do fewer reps with heavier weights or am I missing some info here. Thanks, Kitty

 

[Kepi]

Hi Kitty. I'm not Cathe, but I can help you with your answer. The reps are standard for pyramid training. Cathe does put a twist to the pyramid workouts by supersetting each exercise. Do you have Cathe's Slow & Heavy workouts? Since you are looking to increase your strength in your upper body, I think this set would be a better choice for your goal.

 

[SooFit]

Hi Kitty,
Also not Cathe here, but I've heard it suggested that to lift heavier without loading your barbell to the point of causing injury try wearing a weighted vest. You will be able to increase your overall weight load and still use the 50 lb barbell.

HTH

~Susan

 

[mogambo]

I wear 2 2 1/2 lb ankle weights velcroed around my waist, then use 40,45, 50 lb barbells. This works nicely to raise everything 5 lbs without lifting it over my head. When I need 60 or 65 lbs (like for PS Legs or Slow and Heavy), I wear a fishing vest with weight plates in the pockets, in addition to my ankle weight belt. Someone uses scuba weights around their waist also.

 

[Seabush]

>
>Question 2 Why are the reps 12, 10, and 8, to build muscle
>would it not be better to do fewer reps with heavier weights
>or am I missing some info here. Thanks, Kitty

I like the number 12, 8, and 4 for supersetting. You should be able to lift heavier this way. Why not use this technique and cut down the reps for each set during the Pyramid Workout?

Crystal