PEAK PERFORMANCEMonths to result

Strong Lifting Framework

6 lifts for overall strength

Problem it solves

Individuals and organizations that struggle with strong lifting framework, lacking a clear and actionable framework to diagnose root causes and take systematic improvement steps.

Best for

Individuals seeking overall strength and muscle development

Not ideal for

Those with certain injuries or mobility issues

Overview

Why this framework exists

The Strong Lifting Framework involves performing six specific lifts to achieve overall strength and muscle development. These lifts include squats, bench press, deadlifts, military press, chin-ups, and hip thrusts. The framework emphasizes progressive overload and proper form to ensure effective and safe training.

Core principles

3 total
  1. Progressive overload is key to strength gains
  2. Proper form and technique are essential for safe and effective training
  3. Variety in training is important to avoid plateaus and prevent overuse injuries

Steps

4 steps
  1. Choose the six lifts
    Select the six lifts that make up the Strong Lifting Framework: squats, bench press, deadlifts, military press, chin-ups, and hip thrusts.
    Pro tipStart with lighter weights and focus on proper form and technique
    WarningBe cautious of overloading and injuring yourself
  2. Develop a training schedule
    Create a training schedule that allows for progressive overload and variation in training
    Pro tipIncorporate rest days and active recovery to avoid burnout
    WarningAvoid overtraining and listen to your body
  3. Focus on proper form and technique
    Prioritize proper form and technique over heavy weights and high volume
    Pro tipWork with a coach or experienced lifter to develop proper form and technique
    WarningPoor form and technique can lead to injury and ineffective training
  4. Incorporate variety in training
    Incorporate variety in training to avoid plateaus and prevent overuse injuries
    Pro tipTry different exercises, rep ranges, and training protocols to keep training interesting and challenging
    WarningAvoid getting stuck in a rut and failing to make progress

Checklist

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Examples

1 cases
Dr. Bret Contreras' personal experience

Dr. Bret Contreras developed the Strong Lifting Framework based on his personal experience with powerlifting and his desire to create a more comprehensive training program.

OutcomeThe Strong Lifting Framework has been effective in improving overall strength and muscle development for Dr. Bret Contreras and his clients.

Common mistakes

3 traps
Overloading
Overloading can lead to injury and burnout. It's essential to start with lighter weights and progressively increase the load over time.
Poor form and technique
Poor form and technique can lead to injury and ineffective training. It's essential to prioritize proper form and technique over heavy weights and high volume.
Lack of variety in training
Lack of variety in training can lead to plateaus and overuse injuries. It's essential to incorporate variety in training to keep training interesting and challenging.

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The Strong Lifting Framework was developed by Dr. Bret Contreras as a way to improve overall strength and muscle development. It was inspired by his experience with powerlifting and his desire to create a more comprehensive training program.

Source

Traced to primary
Source · PODCAST
Build Your Ideal Physique | Dr. Bret Contreras
Andrew Huberman · 2025
Open source →