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Program review

Starting Strength Review: Structure, Pros and Cons

by Mark Rippetoe

The gold standard for beginner strength training. Linear progression on squat, bench, deadlift, and press using heavy 3x5 sets. Adds weight every session for rapid strength gains.

Beginner 3 days/week 12-16 weeks

Program Structure

Starting Strength is a beginner powerlifting program built around 3 training days per week. The program runs 12-16 weeks with low volume and high intensity.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Simple to follow
  • Rapid strength gains
  • Minimal time in gym
  • Well-documented

Cons

  • Limited hypertrophy focus
  • Can feel repetitive
  • Progress stalls after novice phase

Who It Suits

  • Goal fitstrength
  • Equipment fitfull gym, home gym basics, barbell-only setup
  • Meet timelinegeneral strength
  • Weak point fitbalanced SBD work, squat focus

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