Starting Strength Question

[nodoubtt]

Hey guys,
I tried searching for the other big thread that was here on the 5x5 but couldn't find it for some reason.
My question was in regards to selecting a 5x5 weight and how heavy it should be. At first I assumed you pick a weight that will take you to failure upon the 5th rep, but I realized that if I go to failure on the 5th rep in the 1st set, my mucles will become so taxed that I'll be down to no more than 2 or 3 reps on the final set.
So which weight do I pick? Is it a weight that will go to failure on my 5th set? Ie not super duper taxing the first few sets but ultimately to failure on my 5th set?

[slick2404]

http://forums.beyond.ca/st/310085/5-x-5-strong-life/

[A790]

Set a weight that you can do 5x5 with. For a lot of people, this is the bar when they are benching, overhead press, etc.

Don't be ashamed of the weights you put on the bar. What's important is how you progress, not how much you lift.

[nodoubtt]

Originally posted by A790
Set a weight that you can do 5x5 with. For a lot of people, this is the bar when they are benching, overhead press, etc.

Don't be ashamed of the weights you put on the bar. What's important is how you progress, not how much you lift.

so you'd pick a weight where your first set you're not really even close to failure then, correct?

[lint]

starting strength != strong lifts. how to determine starting weights are outlined in each program

[A790]

Originally posted by nodoubtt


so you'd pick a weight where your first set you're not really even close to failure then, correct?

As I said, pick a weight that you can do 5x5 with. Gradually add resistance. I try to add 5lbs a week to my core lifts (Squat, Dead, Bench, Overhead Press) and my accessories as appropriate.