Program review
StrongLifts 5x5 Review: Structure, Pros and Cons
Alternates two workouts (A/B) with 5x5 sets on squat, bench/row, and deadlift/OHP. More volume than Starting Strength. App support makes tracking easy for beginners.
Program Structure
StrongLifts 5x5 is a beginner powerlifting program built around 3 training days per week. The program runs 12-20 weeks with medium volume and medium-high intensity.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Free app
- More volume than SS
- Easy progression system
- Great community support
Cons
- Rows may not transfer well to powerlifting
- Frequent deloads needed later
Who It Suits
- Goal fitstrength, strength and size
- Equipment fitfull gym, home gym basics, barbell-only setup
- Meet timelinegeneral strength
- Weak point fitbalanced SBD work
Check whether this plan fits you
The quiz compares this program against your training age, schedule, equipment, weak point, and meet timeline.
Related programs
Related Programs
Starting Strength
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.
RTS General Intermediate
Reactive Training Systems' intermediate template using percent-based work with RPE adjustments. Trains the competition lifts 3x per week with emphasis on technique and strength balance across all three lifts.
Sheiko Program
High-frequency, high-volume Russian powerlifting system. Trains the competition lifts 3-4x per week at submaximal intensities to build technique and volume tolerance. Proven in elite powerlifting.

