[BendtheBar]

I agree with not hitting lower rep ranges as they are learning the lifts - and as a true beginner.

Sean states that he would have a trainee wait until they have trained 6 months to work in the 6 to 8 rep range. Sean also states, "After 3 years you need more variety and also base most of your volume on your known fiber dispersion." This is basically stating that after 3 years you can begin with reps under 6.

"So as your progress from novice to intermediate add some variety to your sets, 4-6 rep sets and some 12-15 rep sets. By the time you have 5+ years you will have it figured out. "

Sean believes that from year 3 to 5, you are dabbling in all rep ranges and should have figured out a solid approach for your body.

I respect Sean, but I also respect Casey Butt and Mark Rippetoe, and I'm not sure they would advocate waiting 3 years before trying 5 rep sets.

From a personal standpoint, I was performing heavy compound lifts in various rep ranges after grasping basic form. My mentor had me doing sets sets in each of the following ranges:

4-6
6-10
10-15

I made great progress my first year with this structure, and was able to squat 315x4 after about 6 months.

I have not trained any beginners like Sean has, which is the reason I wanted to start this thread. I am not implying that my personal experience is indicative of what others will experience.

Sean mentions that he bases his conclusion on research that has come out in the last 5 years. I'm not familiar with this research, and if anyone is, I would like to see the studies.

I have no doubt that someone can grow just fine if they never go below 6 reps. But I'm still not connecting with waiting for 3 years to try reps under 6.