Juggernaut AI Powerlifting - Final Thoughts After 6 Months
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- Опубліковано 29 сер 2024
- The time has come to put my thoughts together after having finished a 6 month training cycle on the Juggernaut AI Powerlifting program. If you'd like more detailed insight check out the 11 video playlist that really breaks down the program: • Juggernaut AI Powerlif...
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Thanks Brandon. Glad you've been enjoying your experience
appreciate all the effort that went into this!
Hahaha spoiler alert
I've been ghetto rigging the PL option in the app for strongman, you guys should add that in there. (The biggest difference is that I log/Axle when it says bench, and instead of a shoulder accessory I do a chest accessory)
I believe they said they wouldn't because there are too many specialty exercises and equipment involved in strongman
Quick question; along with weightlifting I enjoy high rep Burpees and cardio work. Is these apps able to take in these factors for recovery purposes?
Why is your basement a better quality gym than my local gym😕☹️
Lol, work in progress!
Commerical gyms are so ass I want a dedicated powerlifting gym but I into want to drive an hour just to go to the gym
@@Lucas-tg3hv That's what I do, long ass drive to the only gym in the area worth a damn. It helps they open 24/7. I'm stronger than I've ever been. It makes a huge difference. It does suck that the drive cuts my day super short, but it is what it is.
@@orangeblood27 the gym I train at isn't terrible it's just a tad crowded and doesn't have the best bars imo
@@Lucas-tg3hv buy your own bar and bring it with you
Thanks for the review B! It was a great cycle and your feedback is excellent as always. Blessings
appreciate all your help.
nice review. I've been an AI user since 2019. I restarted an AI 2.0 program September last year (after setting up a home gym) and then switched to the app when it came out and tested out this March. On that test I added 105lbs to my total and im really happy with that. Im just about to finish up 4 cycles of hypertrophy with an actual meet in November. Really looking forward to seeing what I can do. 😀
wow that's awesome nice work.
Currently on my 5th week of the power building program, started a little slow but already starting to see results! Great review
Getting juicy!
Awesome stuff Brandon! Speaking of the price, I too thought it was a bit pricey and I'm generally deterred from monthly subscription costs; however, when you break it down, it costs just over a buck a day. That's cheaper than most people's daily beverage budget, be it coffee, energy drinks, etc. And it goes toward your gains in a personally customized way...win, win in my book. I appreciate the review and look forward to using it later in the year.
I hate subscriptions as well (adobe I'm looking at you). But for me $30 a month in the grand scheme of daily expenses is relatively low like you mentioned.
@@BasementBrandon Don't get me started on Adobe!
I have never paid a subscription fee in my life. It just gets my anxiety up thinking about spending money and have nothing to physically show for it. Kinda one of the downfalls of being materialistic.
I started the juggernaut program because of your reviews. I'm on week 9 and I'm loving it so far
Great to hear!
Me too, well, based on a older vid. I started a few weeks ago!
Totally agree with you. ✅
I have seen great change 4 months in.💪
Really interested in hearing your thoughts 💭 on the powerbuilding programme.
Glad to hear!!
Really impressed you tested this for 6 months before dropping your discount code, show's a lot of transparency!
I pick and choose where I sell out :)
@@BasementBrandon I was surprised there was no break in the middle of this one to eat a built bar :)
Thanks for the honest review of this program.
Sure thing
This app completely changed the game for me personally. I'm really glad I found it through you!
Glad to hear, keep kicking ass.
Loving the app so far! Thanks for your honest review!
Glad it was helpful!
Making youtube videos for 10 years and still don't knwo a lot about youtube. My hero.
I'm just here for the monies.
Maaan I've been running it since the drop, I love it! I crushed some PRs, and ready for the last month peak! The actual U.I. is awesome! I like that it's only 30 bucks, I can easily swap exercises, and adjust based how I'm feeling.
love to hear it
Good stuff!
Awesome. I just started 3 Weeks ago. So far so good! Not as exciting of training as my last program but I feel confident that I will see better results.
Yeah it's going to be a lot of squat bench and deadlift. You can swap some of the exercise for variations to spice it up.
Totally in agreement with your assessment. I have made the choice to not increase a 1rm unless I actually test out and hit a Pr single
I really prefer that sub max work as well.
I loved your journey with this app, I subscribed myself because it did look so much different than anything I've ever experienced before when it comes to workout programs...,that and because my strenght numbers for SBD are weak. I agree 100% of what you said about this app, I couldn't have said it better myself. Not sure if you will do a future video on the Powerbuilding aspect, but I would be curious to hear what you think about it. I don't have the intention yet to go toward PB yet until my numbers on the 3 lifts go up, but it does peak my interest.
That's def my plan. Once I finish this first block I'll likely do an update!
Great review! Cant wait until they add Olympic lifts program
I believe they're in process of that now.
The deadlift commentary is really interesting - it definitely seems to be the case that individuals have very different experiences with deadlift volume to the point that predefined sets and reps just don’t work for every person. I’m guessing that lever lengths and muscle attachments vary enough that your set of 3 may feel like my set of 4 recovery wise, and it’s not quite the same as squats and bench which have more flexibility around the movement.
It has been interesting following this journey and it confirms that even a customised “one size fits all” hat doesn’t fit everyone’s head. Sadly!! That said, it did a great job of pumping you up and getting you back on the horse. Maybe that’s more important.
I loved it and def felt i was going in the right direction with deadlifts. I think the combo of updating my max too high, too much activity outside the gym, and getting sick def did me in. Would def run again however.
This is such a great review- addresses all my questions. Literally EVERYTHING.
Glad to hear!
Once weightlifting is in the app...it’s a no brainer for me. Great review :)
coming soon IIRC
Looking forward to this, been legit waiting.
Hope it helps!
Great review.
I agree 100% with you. I started using the Excel Sheets and moved to the App as soon it was available. All my RM went really up. Sandly I had to quit for 3 months (due surgery) and started again 3 weeks ago.
Really love the program and the App.
If you're doing now the PB one, I'd love to hear your experiences with it. I love the 3 main lifts but not very fan of eternal time at the gym doing a lot of accesories. I know you can select 70% PL and 30% PB don't know how it is compared to 100% PL.
Again great videos
sorry to hear, glad to see you're back and feeling better!
Informational and brilliant as always! Good job Brandon!
Thanks Kelvin!
Thanks Brandon. I have been running since March and really like the program. I have to keep in mind that I should do what the program calls for and not add. Also like you said do the pre workout accurately. In other words trust the program. I designed the program to coincide with a meet, so no problem with peaking and testing.
Awesome, I had a few days where I really wanted to push it but really tried to adhere as much as possible. Going to run it through again for an actual meet.
Really good video man. Will keep in mind what you said in regards to updating 1rm's
Sub max bois
I think you're right on the money in terms of the review.
Thanks my dude! I know you spent a lot of time with the AI!
I must know the answer to the “for the most part” coaches reference
:)
I ran AI for a little over 6 months (might again), and I agree with every single thing said here.
Glad to hear we had similar thoughts!
I have the same concerns with the 1RM updates. They always seem way too high and I always pick the lowest number. I also have so far found it to be a little too easy outside of the main lifts. My workout yesterday was barely a warmup and took 45mins with warmups. Still, overall like you said it has been the best program and app combo I've seen by a LONG way for the money.
I actually like the sub max work, I think it's one of the ways I was able to increase frequency. How/when is your test out?
@@BasementBrandon oh hey, thanks for the reply. I'm currently 136 days out from test. I'm 41, lift 4d/wk, BJJ 4d/wk and work FT. Would you say that later into the programming I'm going to start to be more thankful for the sub max days? :) I could see that.
Great review very well explained, 👏
Thanks! 👍
Well done, sir! 💪🏻
Thanks Doug!
hey Brandon. love your channel. I'm a fellow lifting dad with aging join's. for point of reference.. how tall are you and how old are you. I seem to remember you saying your about a 240lb guy. Just want to get a reference. Thanks for making a. channel for us normal guys who love strength, and take this seriously , but ar e never. going to win raw nats or anything.. Stay big bro.
Right now I am 41 years old, 6'3" (6'4" on a good day) and 220lbs.
Shoutout granddaddy Brandon for putting JuggernautAI on the map for me and a lot of us 🙏🏽 definitely wouldn’t have known without his videos. This man better get a cut @juggernautai
thank you sir lifts a lot.
Thankful for the info and all of the vids
For sure.
Thanks for the detailed review! I like how they have pre screening questions which can bump up numbers or lower down if you are beaten up!
One question - do you ever felt boring knowing that you are following 6 months plan? I know there were different blocks but still. What’s your thoughts on this?
I don’t mean to be sassy but I’m certain that, training probably 3-4 days a week, Brandon couldn’t remember exactly what he was doing for 6months (even if he had looked through every workout ahead of time, which would be nuts). It’s not boring to have an idea of the structure of your training and even some of the intricacies of it, if anything that should make it more fun. Planning ahead, getting pumped for the next mesocyclone, mentally preparing for lifts days or even weeks out is all positive things that should heighten your enjoyment of training, not undermine it.
@@lucasliberty651 agree but a lot of beginners, light weight dudes or females respond to shorter cycles (including hypertrophy, peak, deload etc.). I noticed few lifters complaining about long hypertrophy blocks and peaking after 3-4 months. They found it “boring”. Well surely individualism plays a role here but just wanted to know this bald guy’s perspective 🙂
@@BrownBarbellClub im in the middle of power block i have been getting really bored lately. It's like I squat and bench every single day. 5 days a week. More than I want to. Every week seems to be same so far just different reps
@@higherlifts420 thanks for your feedback!
Personally I didn't get bored. I love doing the big 3, and I had a lot of it during that 6 months. The nice thing is here the ability to swat exercises. So if you are getting bored you could swap out for a variation. I did this to work in things like my duffalo bar, kadillac bar, etc. However powerlifting training in general is not that exciting for some.
Think I’m finally going to hop on. I think my form has dialed in enough to where I don’t need a direct coach. I think that is the biggest thing, is that if you don’t need a direct communication with a coach, this is the way to go.
Do it to it
I agree with the suggestions for updating maxes.. I think I updated it too high because of the suggestion and now now my deadlifts are in the dumps and I can’t hit any of the suggstest numbers 😂
reel it in!
Great video, this app and programming has sort of saved my lifting, I was doing a crossfit and separate bodybuilding program combining them and ultimately burnt out there was tooo much variety and flexibility and I wasn't really progressing. $30-$35 is worth it, I have been using it for powerbuilding for about 2 months and it has been great. Like you mentioned it adjusts daily and weekly for me. I have seen changes in strength and body comp in just a few months. Your pros and cons both make a lot of sense. I'd love the warmup to a 1 RM weight as I'm not always sure how much I should do. What split are you running for powerbuilding? I'm running 50/50 through Nov of this year and thinking to change to 70/30 after for more focus on strength. Again thank you for the video , your gains are honestly great considering you have kids and a life :)
Love to hear it
Appreciate the insight and glad to hear it's been working well for you. I think I'm running 70/30 at the suggestion of Garrett. He said even then the program would be vastly different.
@@BasementBrandon That's what I was wondering how different it is between the splits. I just realized I commented through my 13 yr olds youtube channel haha...I forget its on my laptop as him. I'm not 13 hahaha...
@@trahck5756 I'm assuming the volume for the big 3 shifts even further.
@@BasementBrandon yes I was thinking that as well.
Hey Brandon, thanks for the great feedback. I just used the app in preparation for USAPL Equipped Masters Nationals. I had a similar frustrating result with the deadlift. I had a similar result. I competed in Military Nationals in mid-March and hit 480 in the DL. I then started using the app. It seems like I peaked mid-April hitting a double at 465. I had at least 3 reps in me, but I tore my callous. Anyway, at Nationals I only hit 445 and during the course of the prep, I never did hit my heavy deadlift weight/reps. My squat and BP did increase by 7kg and 5kg
Interesting, appreciate the insight and similar experience.
Only thing I dont like with JTS programming is too much accessories. I prefer BBM programming as its mostly the main lifts for getting stronger.
You could sub in more compounds. Personally I didn't find the accessories too much. I was benching 4x a week, squatting 3x, and deadlifting 2.5 times.
Think I may try the Juggernaut app. I have plateaued on the 5,3,1 program after about 6 months.
They offer a 2 week free trial i believe.
@@BasementBrandon I’ll have to look into that.
Hey B, great video and explanation as always big dog. Question for you, I've also just started the Powerbuilding program. Question for you, my program tells me to do like 100 combo sets especially on lower body days (kidding not 100, but seems close). I just don't have the time do all those combo sets, but I'm also not only going to do the Powerlifting portion since....that would defeat the purpose of it being Powerbuilding. What would you recommend I do or what would you personally do in order to save time, but also have effective training sessions. Thanks!
My suggestion would be to get on the clock. Start a watch and do sets like Every :90 (start 1st set at :00, 2nd set at 1:30, 3rd set at 3:00) etc. Not necessarily that timeframe but something consistent and challenging. It'll suck for a week or two but you'll adapt pretty quick.
I don't have as much insight here as I've just started the hypertrophy block in PB and the combo sets for me haven't been too bad yet. I would def take the suggestion of using the timer if needed, but I seriously cut down on rest times between exercises/sets on those sets as well.
Definitely don’t miss using a spreadsheet or notebook 📙
amen
I use Stronglifts, they have developed it into a customizable program. You can change the basic lifts, add from a huge list or create your own and customize almost all areas. And for about $20 a year hard to beat.
@@BasementBrandon after 4 years I’m still a novice but the program has been developed so if u design your own or copy from someone it keeps a record of your lifts. You can almost put any exercises u need to keep track of. I was able to digitally put a paid program on StrongLifts and get off spreadsheets. I lift for BJJ & krav so I guess I’ll always be a novice. I enjoy ur videos thanks.
appreciate the insight!
Did the powerbuilding for 5 weeks. I have two main issues. First is the workouts get crazy long in week 4 and 5. We are talking 2 hours plus only taking a minute between sets. My second issue is the price $35 is a lot. For me its just not worth it.
Fair enough!
Brandon is the Basics with Babish of strength training. Basements with Brandon, if you will.
same hair cut.
Brandon, is there a list of assistance exercises or variations to go from? Does it ask you what bars or pieces of equipment you have access to? Are there opportunities to use a SSB or Reverse Hyper during the program?
yes a big list. it gives you a recommended list of movements to use, but you can override that with anything.
In that 6 months how often did you test out? I've been kind of experimenting with how long to run a program in order to get the best results and I've found about 12 or 16 weeks is best for me. Sounds like 16 weeks probably would have been best for you.. I just started the Juggernaut program and used your code to get 10% off. thanks for that
He would've tested before starting and tested at the end. That's the point of a prep and peak.
1RM were only tested at the every end. But I had max effort sets at RPE 10 where you typically could go for rep PRs.
So if you set your test out date to 16 weeks it would customize your training cycle to that date.
I am very interested in accomodating resistance and making gains at my current body weight. Does the app account for dynamic effort days? Loved the video!
Not really, but based off if you're looking to lose, maintain, or gain weight it will adjust work accordingly.
Thinking about getting the app for the Powerbuilding program. I know you're only a few weeks into PB, but can you provide some feedback of your experience so far with it?
Sessions can get a lot more intense. Especially with the volume and trying to keep workouts shorter. I actually switched back to the PB app after 5 weeks as I"m going to try to get a competition in before Thanksgiving.
Maybe I'm not doing something correctly, but, my biggest issue is that any notes I put in become inaccessible. I was using the notes to document extra effort in the work ups and issues with my readiness for certain movements. To no avail. I can't find them. I also agree with you on the lack of weight suggestions for most of the accessory work. The app just leaves it up to you to determine appropriate weights for RIR / RPE. Anyway, I just moved on to the PowerBuilding app. More in tune with my goals. 50 years old so not really looking to compete anytime in my future.
I may be wrong but I believe these notes show up in the previous workout overview and in the history field for the exercise.
@@BasementBrandon Thanks for the reply. I have seen the notes in the workout review, but, not in the exercise history. Once I switched to Powerbuilder program, obviously no workout to review, so, those notes are gone forever, I guess. Keep up the content. I very much enjoy it.
Would be interesting to see you run the 3 week program Smolov Jr for bench to see if that much volume helps your weak point out.
I actually had a ton of volume with the AI, it had be benching every single session.
Totally agree with the warmup sets comment. I'm coming from using the fitbod app and that's one good thing it has. Juggernaut seems far superior though.
They've been really open to feedback and I think it would be an easy add.
I'd really like to hear from people who have used squat briefs (loose/training) and a bench shirt/Band and how they were able to still use this program or tweak accordingly.
ah sorry can't help you there.
I’m starting the powerbuilding program today. $35 a month is not expensive for an in depth, personalized program like this.
Right on! If you like it and stay on, my code will save you a few bucks off that a month.
I only lasted a month but my DL also went down. The biggest issues was that the program couldn’t accommodate for my schedule even thought it asked how many days I wanted to train (5 workdays on, 2 off for weekends) and it generated a routine for 5 days, what it was really meant for was 4 days over 7 days.
Overall I personally didn’t see any AI since the flexibility just wasn’t there to accommodate what I wanted.
I'm not sure I follow. I ran the PB with a 5 days on 2 days off schedule and it worked the same?
@@BasementBrandon when I was trying the app earlier this year PB wasn't available (it's only been added recently) so I was using the original powerlifting based template. and the program kept on suggesting hitting the same muscle group several days in a row. I had contacted support and they said it's the only way the program works, it gives days in sequence but has no ways to align with the actual days of the week. hence the implied assumption was that Days 1/2 on the program aren't the actual consecutive week days, and days off are expected in between. it made my desired schedule of Mon-Fri as training days and weekends off was not feasible.
@@S0larW1nd Strange, that's exactly how I ran it (m-f) and didn't have any issue.
All I have to say is that I have to keep buying larger shirts and pants. Also the most recent updates are great. It now includes warmup sets for main lifts.
Hah not a bad problem to have!
I'm starting on it tomorrow
Nice! Good luck!
Thanks for the overview. Think I'm about ready to sign up. Was wondering if all I have access to is barbell and dumbbells, can I still run the program (i.e., no cables, machines, specialty benches)?
Most def. Most movements are barbells and dumbbells by standard, the ones that aren't you can find alternatives that use what you have.
The juggernaut app doesn’t cost much more than having someone coach you in Australia and there’s more flexibility with exercise selection
Right on!
Great job Brandon! Does the program allow you to pick exercises according to the equipment you have available or to gear the workouts toward a sport like Jiu-Jitsu?
Hey Jason, all of the movements have options for you to switch to comparable things based on equipment. We have a BJJ S&C system now at JTSstrength.com that will come out as it's own app in August/September
For powerlifting the main exercises should all be doable with a basic set up (squat/bench/deadlift). For accessories it usually says something like "quad movement" and then you pick from a suggested list. You should be able to find something that works for you but if not, you can search the entire archive and go with something else.
Brandon, do you still have your original Westside or Ohio bars in black zinc? I'd be curious to see follow up reviews to show how they wear/age over time with a few videos, or pictures. Or...did I already miss a video with this?
It now lives at a friends gym. Knurling has held up great the black zinc has faded quite a bit.
Brandon with this app you only build strength on the big three? I would like that but also want to build muscles, build a nice physique. Currently doing the HWPO strong program.
They have a powerbuilding program but it's not something I've enjoyed doing b/c it's a lot of volume and mostly accessory work. The Powerlifting program can have some hypertrophy built in, but it's not the programs goal.
@@BasementBrandon thank you! I downloaded the app yesterday and started today with the powerbuilding program. Also , when you enter a PR do you considered the barbell weight of 45lbs? for example my bench PR is 220lbs without considering the barbell so that is what i entered. Or i should have entered 265lbs which considers the barbell weight?
@@emmanuelcastro5677 always count the bar IMO!
Hey Brandon, nice review of your overall experience with the app. I did the old spreadsheet version through Garrett before he linked up with Chad and remember that in the powerbuilding mode, you used to allow a specific muscle group to be focused on. Is that the same in the App version?
Yes, you can choose bodypart focuses in the app. I'm not sure that Garrett had a PB version on sheets before we started working together in late 2018 though.
yes it asks an upper and lower body focus and will throw more work in for those.
Thanks for another detailed review. Would also appreciate your thoughts on how this app/program would work for more average individual. With work, kids, pandemic, etc. I'm not going to realistically "maximize" any lifts really and looking for more of a slow and steady improvement. Does it save a lot of time? Have they found a nice tradeoff of volume/results?
I would consider myself average! Full time corporate gig, 2 kids, wife, youtube channel. The program is meant to get you stronger in the main 3 for powerlifting, as long as you have some understanding of RPE and RIR I think anyone could use it.
@@BasementBrandon If 605lb squat is average I'm in big trouble...
Great review Brandon. I'm curious about session lengths - does the app offer any options for reducing workout times? For instance, lowering the total number of sets or number of exercises per session?
Not that I’ve found. Increasing the number of days decreases the session length per day though. That’s what I’ve seen in my experience.
You can use the built in timer to expedite. You can also just cut volume on the accessories if you feel it needed.
Brandon you mention swapping out movements, however would you say it would be effective for someone wanted to just do a push/pull meet?
I think it would still work as you can swap out the squatting for whatever. Prob not going to get the best bang for your buck obviously, but it will still progress the other lifts.
I'd like to see a weight loss focused adaptation to this app, and an easier way to tell it what equipment you have to work with and how much weight.
When filling out the pre training cycle survey you can put you're trying to lose weight and it will adapt the workload accordingly.
@@BasementBrandon That's cool. Time to give this thing a try.
You mentioned really knowing your RPE. As someone that’s never done it, any suggestions on where to start learning? I know what it is, but how does one start using it? How do you learn to tell the difference between 8 and 10?
TBH the best way to learn it is start using it. The more you try to rate appropriately the better you get.
How do you handle the “incomplete workout” part of the app? When you took the week off did you just make “skipped due to fatigue” or what? I’m curious how those choices affect the programming
it's my understanding that they don't. I just didn't fill out those days I missed and when I rated the week I rated it accordingly. The biggest things that impact the programming are your daily ratings, workout ratings, and weekly ratings.
Hey Brandon. Im currently on my 2nd week of my strength phase but I wasn’t able to train all week due to work , etc. do you think I should just wait until Monday to complete this training week or should I start it tomorrow?
I'd prob start with the week i missed unless you need to test out on a certain day.
Definitely still wish they can do a one time liftetime purchase. I hate monthly subscriptions 😂
I just set it and forget it since it's on auto renew.
Thanks for the review. You hit the mark on many spots. I've been using the Powerbuilding 70/30 for 6 weeks now and I wanted to add to what you said. Keep in mind my test day is in 60 days so I haven't seen if my big three lifts have increased yet, but I have been lifting for 20+ years.
Good:
Tech support/Coaching support included is great and timely. The coaches answer questions within a day.
I agree with all of the positive things Brandon said
Not so good:
You need to have internet connectivity to use the app, which can be a problem sometimes.
There is no option to use the app on Windows, meaning I can't print out previous workouts or just use my computer when working out.
I find that instead of 1 deload week you get 3. I've never even heard of a 6 or 7 RPE before (aka 4 or 3 reps in reserve) and these are basically the same as deloading to me. I'd rather take a deload week on the 4th week then training like a pussy 3/5 weeks. That said, I test in 60 days and if my numbers are higher my point here is invalid. I also find it odd that there was no prescribed beyond failure training, and hardly any failure training. I think team juggernaut should watch some John Meadows and other bodybuilding channels and apply some more techniques to Powerbuilding.
The workouts can get really long in Powerbuilding. This can be remedied by doing more combo and super sets, and increasing intensity. The problem is when I make those changes myself I don't know how it affects my prescribed powerlifting.
There's more I could say, but like Brandon said, it's not perfect. Thanks for the review Brandon.
appreciate the insight. Powerbuilding is def a bigger beast to conquer. I think it means different things to different people. Curious to see how your numbers go after your test out, please keep me in the loop.
@@BasementBrandon You bet.
@@BasementBrandon Hi there. Keeping my word here and reporting my progress:
Just did the mock meet, and I made no improvements on my big 3 lifts. 2 things to keep in mind, though: 1) I'm moving on my feet all day every day, so major leg strength gains are highly unlikely. 2) While I did increase my caloric intake (yet still was hanging around maintenance because of increased summer output) and added deep tissue massage and extra stretching to reduce the muscle pain, I did not get stronger.
I think towards the end of month 2, strength phase, I was a little bit stronger than I had been in the past, but peaking month was definite overtraining to me. My central nervous system, joints, muscles, everything were fried and I laid around a little bit more whenever I had the chance and I gained about a pound of fat the last couple weeks. The last week (taper week) worked out well, though, and I was ready for the meet.
Final thoughts: I have no regrets buying and trying these last (almost) 4 months. I learned extremely helpful squat cues and exercises from the Juggernaut UA-cam channel and they deserved my money and input for the A.I. I also really had nothing to lose seeing as I'm 36 and a lifetime natural athlete who's unlike to make significant gains after 20+ years of training, so it was interesting to try something new.
I currently don't want to continue with the program, even though it suggested to me that it knows me better for the next phase. Maybe in the winter months, but I like working out using playground equipment. I also just want to do what I was doing before and it was working better for me: a more Dorian Yates style which was a few sets to work up to 1 balls-to-the-wall RPE 13 set for each exercise during a workout, and sticking to 10-20+ reps (DON'T BALLS TO THE WALL HEAVY COMPOUND LIFTS IF YOU CAN'T DO SO SAFELY). And when I was fried, I took a few days of deload. No scheduled deload, but it usually was needed around every 3-4 weeks. The only trade-off with this method compared to 70/30 with the A.I. is that I went through life with higher cortisol levels (more of a crab ass). My joints weren't beat up as much as with the A.I. but the 6 RPE and 7 RPE weeks in the A.I. I felt I was in a better mood throughout the day.
For Brandon: I think 70/30 is a good place to start if you've never done powerbuilding before. I will say that the method I was doing before the A.I. showed better physique results, though, but learning time under tension, mind-muscle connection, true failure and BEYOND failure, certainly won't hurt your powerlifting numbers--at least it didn't with mine. I also recommend lowering the prescribed weights on the strength block for the bodybuilding movements and increasing reps to 12+ (still hitting the prescribed RIR, of course), or your joints will regret it. Best of luck!
Does it allow you to set different microcycle lengths?
Due to my job, I have to train with about a 10 day “week” instead of the standard 7 day week & would love to not have to calculate how far past my comp I have to set my contest date to make the macrocycle actually line up with my screwed up schedule.
TLDR: can I set it to give me 3 training “weeks” over 4 calendar weeks?
I don't believe so, but it sounds like you might be overcomplicating it. If you're going to put in your meet date, it will build a training cycle accordingly. You tell it how many days per week you want to train and it gives you day 1, day 2, day 3, etc. You could in theory just complete the days on your own schedule and submit the week when you've completed, vs doing it on say every sunday.
I'm finishing hypertrophy part this week. I am curious what strength will bring. I just don't like that if you are not feeling top shelf on a movement it just deletes the rest of the sets instead of letting me drop weights and get set in. Especially on a volume intense phase like hypertrophy.
I've found if it's doing that you can go back and adjust your pre training survey (or the fields at the top of training) so that they'll still show, then on your first working set just log what you did and how it felt. Depending on if it's main movement (or an accessory) it might update the remaining sets, or you can just continue to change/log what you're doing.
Hi Brandon. I'm into the second month of using the app but training has been inconsistent due being unwell and family interruptions. Would you recommend just skipping previous workouts and starting from where I need to be in the program or resetting? I would like to get the most out of the hypertrophy block and not too concerned with the strength or peaking blocks.
I'd prob start over if you're not in any sort of rush.
@@BasementBrandon Cheers man.
Hey man, thinking about trying this out. My question is: is there a way you can make each "cycle" a total of 3 months instead of drawn out to 6 months? It seems like having the hypertrophy, strength, and peaking block each be one month makes more sense to see how much progress you're making in terms of your maxes. Rather than maxing out after 6 months.
You can set your test out date and it will build a training cycle appropriately.
@@BasementBrandon thanks for the prompt reply.
@@BasementBrandon hey brandon, i just purchased the juggernaut ai, and had one quick question. It doesn't seem as though you can choose the number of times per week you perform each lift, is that correct? For example, i've previously performed best squatting 2x, benching 2x, and deadlifting 1x per week, but the programming seems randomized. I don't suppose there is a way to choose specifically how many times i perform each lift?
@@BeastinFitness The program determines that. If you take a look at your main dashboard page and click on " Review Program" right under the graph, it will tell you frequency, and periodization.
As a novice lifter who has been running the BBB 5/3/1 program for several months would you recommend this? I'm hoping to do a powerlifting meet in Dec or even as late as next summer. I'm in no hurry and want to do things right. Any thoughts? I cant afford a trainer and thought this would be a great alternative.
I think we connected on this on IG, but I would say if you have a basic understanding of RPE/RiR then it'll be good for you. You still can learn, but might take a few training cycles to really dial it in.
@@BasementBrandon Indeed we did. Thanks again. I went and watched all the videos you had on RPE and watching what others have said to. I think I get it as I've learned on my own these past few weeks that sometimes I just need to drop the weight based on feels or maybe just move on to another exercise. I workout in my patio and the heat can be an issue in the SW. Add some humidity and it can be killer. I have learned a ton over the past few months. Hydration (proper hydration) has improved my sessions a lot and of course proper nutrition. Thanks again. Definitely going to check it out!
Thanks for the review Brandon, the only thing I am on the fence about is the time commitment. Two kids and a job has me worried about having enough time to commit to being successful on this program. How many days a week were you training and what do you think the time commitment was?
4x per week, roughly 90 min per session. There are ways to speed things up (limit rest time, use a timer, superset), so I didn't think it was impossible.
You can do anything you put your mind to. I have 4 kids and a job, busy life. I get up at 4am often to get the workout in. Get if the fence and go after what you want 👍🏻
I'm running a 4 day a week powerbuilding program on juggernaut at the moment. My biggest concern is how inconvenient the amount of time I need to spend lifting is on the most voluminous hypertrophy weeks. How long were you spending in the gym during your longest workouts on the powerlifting program? I'm wondering if powerlifting just changes exercise selection or if it actually decreases the number of exercises.
If I was F'ing around a lot it would stretch to 90-120 minutes, but if I got my shit together I could do that same session in 60-90
@@BasementBrandonAre you also doing 4 days a week? I'm not sure how to compare as I moved to Juggernaut AI from a program that didn't do hypertrophy work so I'm thinking my rest periods might be longer than needed. I'm going for 2-3+ minutes on larger lifts and 1-2+ on smaller stuff though I often take longer if I'm really tired or stupidly trying to multitask. I'm sort of in the mindset to try and recover enough to lift at peak, maybe I should be more concerned about pump and burn for hypertrophy work. Yesterday was the 2nd highest volume day of this meso for me and I did 42 sets 10 of which were combo sets. My first hypertrophy block I had it set to 3 days a week and it was insanely unmaintainable :P. I'm not lifting in the same class as you from what I've read of Juggernaut I think that probably means I'm being assigned more volume as the lighter weights allow a higher MRV.
@@wdavid3116 Yes 4x a week. My days 1 & 3 are always my longest as it's my heavier work and I squat/bench/dead on those days. I try to superset all accessory work where I can and limit rest times on those to help speed through.
Feel like it’s needs more upper body stuff mainly back as it needs some extra movement volume for back
Could def add it in.
I added it in and all my lifts habe exploded with extra back volume plus some extra triceps dips at the end of push days
Is this good for first responders who might be on double shifts for days and maybe hit the gym 2-3 a week
I haven't run it on a 2 or 3 day a week program but I imagine they'd be super long. It may be good if your primary goal is to increase bench, squat, and dead, but if not, prob better programs for you
Just happened to sign up for it yesterday. I found a bug where If you replace an exercise it won't let you add any sets. Using the powerbuilding plan here.
I think it depends where in the training you are as well.
Knowing you, I doubt you’ll be able to resist getting the black stainless Rogue Adjustable bench 3.0. Will you be selling the 2.0?
I will be selling the 2.0 but not for the 3.0 :)
@@BasementBrandon you’re getting the Rep Zero gap or Rogue AB2/3?
@@ramybroudefan8659 nope! :) you'll see!
Any experience with the Sheiko Gold Velos-ID yet for comparison?
Can't say I do
@@BasementBrandon any plans by accident? :)
The estimated 1RMs got me too
I think now that I know I'd do better with a 2nd run.
How has the powerbuilding one been going? Would love a vid on it
I ran it for about 5 weeks before switching back to Powerlifting b/c I enjoyed it more and wanted to compete.
@@BasementBrandon fair enough! I'm on week 3 of powerbuilding and enjoying it so far personally want to get bigger while building strength but no desire to compete or max out on the 3 lifts 👍
As someone who's not a fan of extended hypertrophy blocks, how effective do you think the program would be if the user continually set a meet/test date every 12-16 weeks out so as not to go 6 months without testing?
That'd be fine, though I would suggest a Bridge Block between every other one of those (ie. two full meet cycles then one bridge block for 6 weeks).
@@JuggernautTrainingSystems that's an even better idea!
YOU DON'T WANT TO BE JOOICY?
Several high level lifters and coaches (whom I respect) are very critical of this app. This is interesting.
I'd be curious to know who those are and if they've actually tried the app (cam out December 2020) or are basing their opinions on the Powerlifting AI 1.0 that came out in Oct 2018 and has been significantly updated, revised and fine tuned to what we have now.
From my perspective it's b/c they're looking at this the wrong way. It's not marketed as a better alternative for actual coaching, but more of an in-between. I also think it comes down to people's understanding of what "AI" actually is.
@@JuggernautTrainingSystems i don't want to start a war or anything. but i know that one of the specific critiques was the deadlift volume that was prescribed for one of the blocks. a 7x10, i believe.
@@BasementBrandon that's fair. i've enjoyed all the videos pertaining to this app. i'm using DDS monthly coaching template right now, but i would consider running this one as well in the future.
@@danieljahn2027 yes that would be from pretty long ago, many many updates ago, in fact the Powerlifting programming hasn't given any sets of 10 in the deadlift for ~2 years. Can the volume get very high? Yes of course, but that is happening when people are telling the system that they feel great and want more.
Have you thought about running sheiko Gold?
I have not, no reason to switch programs at this point IMO
@@BasementBrandon fair enough I've been keeping up with your progress on jugg AI. I'll probably try out Sheiko, then maybe try out JuggAi we'll see how it goes.
In juggernaut ai Dumbbells weight should be inserted together or only the weight of one of them?
Doesn't matter as long as you consistently track the same.
Can you add or swap in things like atlas stones, log press, and farmers walks?
Not for this, those aren't typical movements for powerlifting.
Good progress Brandon...BP and long arms don't work well...
Will figure it out at some point!
How long is a typical Juggernaut AI workout? I find the program I am doing is in the 1.25 to 1.5 hour range, which is too long considering my job and two hour round trip commute to work.
60-90 min for me.
@@BasementBrandon I started Juggernaut AI today!
How does the app manages when one has to take couple of weeks off training? Does it pause the training and the payment?
it's a monthly reoccurring payment so you'd likely want to cancel your subscription and just restart when you're able.
Did you manually override exercise selections? I notice that it’s still giving me a ton of variations and not a lot of comp lift practice and I’m
For powerlifting or powerbuilding?
@@BasementBrandon powerlifting. I notice in my program leading up to meet it still has some heavy variation work
@@josurke For me the frequency drops closer to comp. For example squats, hypertrophy it's at 3.75x, strength is 3x, peaking is 2.25x.
@@BasementBrandon got it. But you were still doing ample variation right before peak?
@@josurke yes
I only have adjustable db and titan lat tower and rack. Can I do this program? Worth it ?
If you don't have a barbell I wouldn't suggest it. The main point of the program is to increase 1RM in squat/bench/deadlift.
I’ve been using the app for a couple of months, one thing I’m not sure about is the classes. I don’t understand how the classes work, if a higher number is better or lower is better. I haven’t been able to find any explanation of this anywhere.
Class 4-Elite I think and the lower the number the better. It's a more up to date classification of the USAPL numbers I believe?
You know I don't recall this part and not sure it was there when I first signed up.
@@BasementBrandon if you click review program under the main page of the app's bar chart of training blocks then see more under squat, bench and deadlift respectively, you'll see the references to class etc
How is this with limited equipment in a garage gym? How does the app accommodate that?
You can swap out any exercise at any time. Might get a bit boring
@@BasementBrandon might get boring if you don’t swap out?
@@Dippedinblackink If you're doing a 3 month program for example and you're limited to only a handful of exercises, some may find that a bit boring.