Progressive Overload is… many things!

Progressive Overload is… many things!

First of all it’s a principle, and it can be defined as “consistently challenging the neuromuscular system beyond its present capacity.” B. Schoenfeld

Indeed, its chase is exactly what causes us to pack muscles at a fast enough rate, which is why all hypertrophy-strength oriented programs should be programmed with this principle in mind.

In any case, there are actually many ways that we can gauge progressive overload, including adding loads over time, reps on a given set, or sets at a given load… but even recovering quicker between sets can give us a hint, as well as improving technique at heavier loads (which is usually when it starts breaking down).

All in all these are all metrics that suggest we’re getting stronger, which should essentially be the goal of all lifters, long term.

Progressive Overload > All.