Strength Training Articles

A resource for serious lifters and athletes seeking proven strength training methods. The Westside Barbell blog breaks down programming, exercise selection, recovery, and performance strategies built on decades of elite coaching experience of founder Louie Simmons and his dedicated team.

  • Strength Training Articles
Four Weeks to a Squat PR: Week 4

Four Weeks to a Squat PR: Week 4

Burley Hawk 7 minute read

Conjugate Method | Max Effort | Squat Training

One of the most critical aspects of designing sound Conjugate Method programming is to ensure the athlete is being set up for success as much as...

How to Get Stronger: A Guide to Building Raw Strength

How to Get Stronger: A Guide to Building Raw Strength

WSBB Education 16 minute read

Conjugate Method | Exercise Programming | Strength Training Methods

Strength training is one of the most beneficial physical activities an athlete can engage in. Unlike other methods of exercise, such as running, cycling, or...

Four Weeks to a Squat PR: Week 3

Four Weeks to a Squat PR: Week 3

Burley Hawk 8 minute read

Conjugate Method | Good Morning Training | Max Effort

The adaptability of the Conjugate Method is one of the key reasons it is superior to any other strength training methodology. When working with athletes,...

Four Weeks to a Squat PR: Week 2

Four Weeks to a Squat PR: Week 2

Burley Hawk 7 minute read

Conjugate Method | Max Effort | Squat Training

It is now the second week of our four-week squat PR plan. Last week, we performed a 2" mat deadlift, working up to a top-set single. We selected this...

Improving Hip Strength with the Belt Squat

Improving Hip Strength with the Belt Squat

WSBB Education 7 minute read

Conjugate Method | Athletic Training Platform Training | Back Health

At Westside, we are known for using many different strength training tools. Whether it is bands, chains, specialty bars, or specialty equipment, we have...

Four Weeks to a Squat PR: Week 1

Four Weeks to a Squat PR: Week 1

Burley Hawk 6 minute read

Conjugate Method | Max Effort | Squat Training

Successful Conjugate Method training depends on accurate training data and tracking max effort single-rep lifts. When organized correctly, an athlete’s...

Starting Conjugate: Enhancing Work Capacity

Starting Conjugate: Enhancing Work Capacity

Burley Hawk 7 minute read

Conjugate Method | GPP Training | Volume

The Conjugate Method can be used to focus on and improve a variety of athletic traits and abilities. Whether an athlete needs to improve their absolute...

What is Powerlifting? An Introduction to the World of Strength

What is Powerlifting? An Introduction to the World of Strength

WSBB Education 14 minute read

Exercise Programming | Powerlifting | Strength Training Methods

Powerlifting is a sport that utilizes the squat, bench press, and deadlift to measure an athlete’s absolute strength and technical capabilities regarding each...

Basic Three-Day Conjugate Training Schedule

Basic Three-Day Conjugate Training Schedule

Burley Hawk 9 minute read

Conjugate Method | Athletes | Exercise Programming

One of the most significant benefits of the Conjugate Method is the ability to manipulate the methodology to fit each athlete best. Whether this means...