Enter your training max to generate the full Wendler 5/3/1 four-week cycle.
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Training Max Used
Week 1 (5/5/5+)
Weight
Week 2 (3/3/3+)
Weight
Week 3 (5/3/1+)
Weight
Week 4 — Deload (5/5/5)
Weight
Boring But Big (5×10)
Weight
What Is the 5/3/1 Program?
Wendler 5/3/1 is a percentage-based strength program built around four
main lifts — squat, bench press, deadlift, and overhead press — each
run off its own Training Max. Every working weight for the month
comes from that single number, which is why getting your training max
right (using our Training Max Calculator)
matters more than any other input in the program.
How to Use This Calculator
If you already know your Training Max, enter it directly. If you only
have your 1RM, switch to "1RM (auto 90%)" mode and the calculator will
apply the standard 90% conversion automatically. If you need to
estimate your 1RM first, use our
1RM Calculator
before converting it to a Training Max. Generate the cycle to see all
four weeks of main work plus a Boring But Big assistance table, all
rounded to the nearest 5 lb or 2.5 kg.
The 5/3/1 Weekly Percentages
Week 1 (5/5/5+): 65%, 75%, 85% of Training Max.
Week 2 (3/3/3+): 70%, 80%, 90% of Training Max.
Week 3 (5/3/1+): 75%, 85%, 95% of Training Max.
Week 4 — Deload (5/5/5): 40%, 50%, 60% of Training Max.
The last set of each main week is an AMRAP set (marked with a "+").
Treat it as a controlled rep-record set rather than a true 1RM test:
perform quality reps and avoid taking the set to technical failure.
The deload week is part of the standard 5/3/1 cycle structure. The
lighter workload provides a lower-intensity week before the next cycle.
Boring But Big (BBB) Assistance
Boring But Big (BBB) is a well-known assistance template for 5/3/1:
after your main lift, perform 5 sets of 10 reps. The exact percentage
can vary by BBB variation and training experience. This calculator
uses 50% of your Training Max as a conservative default.
This adds substantial supplemental volume for lifters using BBB
alongside their main 5/3/1 work. Start with a load that allows you
to complete the prescribed sets with controlled technique and
recover for your next session.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Training Max in the 5/3/1 program?
Commonly set at 90% of your true 1RM — the submaximal number every percentage in the program is calculated from.
Do I really have to do the deload week?
It's widely recommended and part of the standard structure — it lets fatigue dissipate before the next cycle.
What does AMRAP mean?
"As many reps as possible" — the final set of weeks 1-3, generally treated as a rep-record set rather than a true max effort.
What is Boring But Big (BBB)?
5 sets of 10 reps, commonly 50-60% of your Training Max depending on the variation, done after your main lift for added volume.
How and when should I increase my Training Max?
A common approach: after each full 4-week cycle, +5 lb (2.5 kg) upper body, +10 lb (5 kg) lower body.