Celebrating Singles

by: Josh Bryant

Big Jim Williams

Q: So, here’s the deal. I’ve been hearing Haters claiming that training powerlifting with single reps is a bad idea. What’s the truth behind this?

Well, let me tell you a story. Back in the day, there was this gruff bouncer from a West By God Virginia kick-n-stab bar. This guy would chug down some potent moonshine, and then assault the iron like there was no tomorrow. His secret workout was fueled by alcohol and the need to toss rowdy folks out the door. Now, that’s what I call a unique training regimen! He said he created this alcohol-fueled workout because it “mirrored” the needs of the job—to be able to drink and throw people out the door.

You know, there’s a lot of snake oil salesmen out there peddling their so-called “sports-specific exercises.” It’s like a dog-and-pony show, trying to convince you that their methods are the real deal. But, let me tell you something, when it comes to powerlifting, it’s all about that one-rep game. You gotta squat, bench press, and deadlift your way to victory, and you only get three attempts at each lift. Those certified officials are watching your every move. So, if you’re gonna be judged on a single rep, you better damn well practice those singles before you step onto that platform.

Now, let’s dive into the benefits of training with single reps.

Grab one of Josh’s peaking programs that uses singles HERE.

Technical Enhancement

 First off, it’s all about enhancing your technique. You see, when you’re pushing for higher reps, fatigue sets in, and your form starts to crumble like a poorly-constructed moonshine still. But, with single reps, you can focus on perfecting your technique. The more you practice those singles, the smoother your lifts will become, and the heavier weight you’ll be able to hoist.

Accuracy

And speaking of weight, let’s talk accuracy. Some self-proclaimed experts may try to calculate your one-rep max based on how many reps you can do at 80 percent of your max. But, that’s about as useful as hunting wild boars in Wise County, Texas with a butter knife. The only way to truly know your max is by tackling heavy singles in training. Forget those calculators; singles are your powerlifting indicator, not some fancy math trick.

Intensity

Now, here’s where things get interesting. Training with singles allows you to crank up the intensity.  Fewer reps and more weight on that barbell is like fueling up on mini-thins before taking on a rowdy crowd at the Waffle House. Trust me, if you’ve never experienced the thrill of lifting heavy singles, you’re in for a wild ride. It’ll boost your confidence and make you feel like the strongest, gruffest beast in the room.

Relative Strength

Here’s the best part: strength without mass. You see, singles primarily target those neurological adaptations, making you a master at lifting heavy weights without packing on unnecessary bulk. Sure, bodybuilders may be chasing mass like it’s an all-you-can-eat Golden Corral Buffet, but for powerlifters, you have weight classes to consider. We want to be powerful and stay within our designated range.

So, my friend, don’t let the doubters steer you wrong. Embrace the power of singles in your powerlifting journey. Train hard, chase those heavy weights, and remember, when it comes to powerlifting, it’s not about the reps, it’s all about that one glorious, grueling rep. Now, go out there and lift like a wild boar on a moonshine-fueled rampage!

Show you are ready for anything with your Waffle House Ready t-shirt HERE.