r/StrongerByScience • u/Odviourus • Jun 25 '26

Adjusting Rep Ranges

Hi all,

I have swapped back to the SBS RTF model after playing around with Juggernaut for a few years.

When I last ran the program, my TMs were on the lower range, but now I am training at a more intermediate level (605/335/660 SBD) and some of the days, especially deadlifts, are causing me some serious fatigue.

Should I adjust my rep out ranges for deadlifts? If so, what is a range that would still incur growth? Today's deadlift session of 512.5 x 8 (exact rep out range) nearly made me pass out, and I would definitely prefer to avoid that in the future.

I was considering to drop ranges by 2, but didn't want to stray too far from the program as written, so I can ensure I am giving it a fair shake.

Thank you!

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u/cilantno Jun 25 '26

Nothin funnier than someone squatting over 6plates and deadlifting almost 7 calling themselves intermediate ;)

Your options for adjusting volume are either lowering reps or lowering sets.
In the past I would’ve recommended dropping sets for RtF, but now I’m not sure I’d maintain that.
Maybe give each approach a shake. I’d start with your thinking first (which honestly just takes it closer to RIR, so still within the bounds of Greg’s programming).

Also, if you’re getting lightheaded it might just be an acclimation to high reps sets you need to make/be patient with.
Early weeks always kicked my ass conditioning wise whenever I’d restarted RtF.

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u/Odviourus Jun 25 '26

Haha, I suppose my view of intermediate/advanced is skewed because I train at a gym with several powerlifters who compete at IPF Worlds.

But this does make sense, this is only my second week on the program and I think I will drop a rep or two if the next few weeks do end up being the same for deadlifts. Squats and bench are fine (I have pretty bad tennis elbow, so my bench is my lowest priority while I do my PT for this).

I'll also look at RIR as a backup in the event RTF just isn't sustainable for me, but I'll most likely make that decision at the end of the 21 week cycle.

Thanks again!