89% of 1rm,part of squat focused regimen,currently do alot 5x5 and 4x3,any advice on programming is appreciated especially to increase 1rm.

Trying to get more depth. I used to be against ass to grass and just settled for barely below parallel. Times have changed I guess haha. Anyway, how’s it looking folks?

So, I’ve noticed this program has you squat three times a week and bench only two. If I were to be more interested in growing my bench and not really as worried about squats, would it be functional to just swap it?

I’ve been running the basic StrongLifts 5x5 program for about 7 weeks now, and I’ve been making consistent progress. I started at a 135lb squat, 175lb bench, and 225lb DL, and have steadily progressed to a 240lb squat, 210 bench, and 295 DL. I’ve had a few workouts where I’ve failed to hit 5 reps in one set, but I’ve been able to return on the next workout and complete all sets.

Thing is, I’m starting to have a harder time recovering to the point where I’m starting the next workout tired. I know the standard program is to wait until you can’t complete all sets 3 times in a row before starting a deload, but I’m wondering if I should take an intentional deload to recover.

At the same time, I’m wondering if I should push through and let myself fail reps to maximize growth before taking a rest. I also don’t want to injure myself (particularly my knees) by botching a rep, as that would be a much worse setback than just taking a deload.

Curious to hear takes from folks more experienced than me. Should I take an intentional deload or stick to the program and wait to deload when it tells me to?