5/3/1 Boring But Big

Jim Wendler's 5/3/1 main work + 5×10 Boring But Big accessories on the same lift. Intermediate program with planned deload every 4th week.

In this guide9 sections
  1. 01Goal of the plan
  2. 02Who it is for
  3. 03Training split
  4. 04Exercise focus
  5. 05Template structure
  6. 06Progression guidance
  7. 07Recovery guidance
  8. 08Safety notes
  9. 09Scaling options
Real people training with free weights in a gym
Real people training with free weights in a gym. Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:USMC-110816-F-2786W-005.jpg. USMC-110816-F-2786W-005 by Cpl. Courtney C. White, Public domain. Sourced from Wikimedia Commons.

Goal of the plan

Jim Wendler's 5/3/1 main work + 5×10 Boring But Big accessories on the same lift. Intermediate program with planned deload every 4th week.

Who it is for

The source app labels this plan as Intermediate and places it in Strength.

Training split

4 training days per week: Overhead Press, Deadlift, Bench, Squat.

Exercise focus

  • Overhead Press
  • Chin-Up
  • Deadlift
  • Hanging Leg Raise
  • Bench Press
  • Dumbbell Row
  • Back Squat
  • Lying Leg Curl

Template structure

  • Overhead Press (5/3/1 + BBB): 60 min, 3 exercises
  • Deadlift (5/3/1 + BBB): 60 min, 3 exercises
  • Bench (5/3/1 + BBB): 60 min, 3 exercises
  • Squat (5/3/1 + BBB): 60 min, 3 exercises

Progression guidance

Suggested addition

Progress by improving control first, then reps, then load. Keep technique stable before increasing intensity.

Recovery guidance

Suggested addition

Leave at least one easier day after the hardest lower-body or conditioning session when possible.

Safety notes

Suggested addition

Use loads you can control, warm up the primary movement patterns, and stop a set when form changes meaningfully.

Scaling options

Suggested addition

Beginners can reduce one set per exercise, extend rest periods, or use simpler variations while keeping the weekly rhythm intact.