Breaking Down the Programming: Hercules Edition

In this episode of Strength 101, Nick breaks down one of the most anticipated gym programs of the year — The Hercules Program. This 4-week strength cycle is designed to push athletes past plateaus, build serious muscle, and maximize raw power through low-rep, heavy-weight training.

Nick walks listeners through the structure of the program — from the 5x5 and 8x3 progressions to the A/B upper-body format pairing strict presses and pull-ups. He explains how the design draws inspiration from legendary strength coach Louie Simmons of Westside Barbell, using intelligent variation and “max effort” methods to build strength without overuse injuries.

Listeners will also learn why the Hercules cycle incorporates sumo deadlifts, front rack squats, and double kettlebell power cleans, and how accessories like Copenhagen planks, ATG split squats, a ...