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Berzercher Squat Program (Base Version)
Intermediate–AdvancedFree

Berzercher Squat Program (Base Version)

Strength training program designed to improve your Zercher Squat.

TheZercherLifter
TheZercherLifter· Jul 2024
23athletes running this program
iOS & Android

Overview

Length
3 weeks
Days / week
3 days
Level
Intermediate, Advanced
Goal
Strength, Muscle
Equipment
Garage Gym
Session length
30 min
This is a squat program, designed to bring your Zercher Squat up. You'll be doing the Zercher Anderson Squat variation (Bottom-Up Squat from Pins) as your main movement, because I believe it helps the most with teaching the body to handle big weight in the Zercher position. Make sure that you put the pins at such a height so when you start, you're at the parallel. The main work is done in 3 sets, the first set is an introduction to the weight, the second is an AMRAP set with the same weight, and the final set is an AMRAP dropset, where you'll change the exercise variation to a normal Zercher Squat. The program uses a Training Max, which is approximately 90% of your 1RM. If you don't know what your Zercher Anderson Squat 1RM for that variation is, either test it or add 10-20% to your Zercher Squat 1RM and use that. When prompted to enter your 1RM, use your TM instead . There's autoregulation in the program as well. From the first AMRAP set of the day, you'll take the extra reps you've done and add them like this: 2.5kg + extra reps, to the weight for the next day. Example: The AMRAP set calls for 5+ reps, and you've done 8. You take the 3 extra reps, using the formula mentioned above (2.5kg + 3), you'll have to add 7.5kg to the weight for the next day. On the final day of each week, focus on breaking a rep PR. Then start the next week with the prescribed weight + the extra reps, if you got any. The second AMRAP set of the day is only for volume and technique honing. That's why you'll be doing normal Zercher Squats on that set. The only assistance I prescribed is back extensions, which you'll be doing in a switching manner. One day you'll be doing Bodyweight Back Extensions, on the other you'll be adding weight. Ideally, you'll be adding more weight every time you are told to add weight. There will be notes telling you what to do. On the last day of the 3-week cycle, the extra reps are added to your Training Max. Do a deload if you feel like it, and repeat the cycle. This program is a SQUAT program. If you feel like turning it into a SBD program, you can add bench and deadlift and do maintenance work. I strongly suggest adding additional back work, which will be included in the full program that I'm currently testing, hence why I'd be glad if you leave an honest feedback.

Who it's for

Athletes at the Intermediate–Advanced level
Athletes focused on gaining both size and strength
Athletes who can train 3 days per week
Athletes who train in a garage gym (barbell, rack, and basic free weights)

Muscle engagement

Front
Back
Glutes
37.5%
Quadriceps
20.8%
Upper Back
20.8%
Lower Back
20.8%
Week 1 Workouts
#ExerciseSetsRepsIntensity
1Zercher Anderson Squat15 reps70%
2Zercher Anderson Squat1AMRAP70%
1AMRAP55%
3Back Extension3AMRAP@9.5
#ExerciseSetsRepsIntensity
1Zercher Anderson Squat15 reps70%
2Zercher Anderson Squat1AMRAP70%
1AMRAP55%
3Back Extension3AMRAP@9.5
#ExerciseSetsRepsIntensity
1Zercher Anderson Squat15 reps70%
2Zercher Anderson Squat1AMRAP70%
1AMRAP55%
3Back Extension3AMRAP@9.5

Weeks 2–3 are in the app

Download Boostcamp to follow the full program with auto-progression and built-in coaching notes.

Common questions

Yes, Berzercher Squat Program (Base Version) is completely free to follow on Boostcamp. Download the app on iOS or Android, find the program, and start your first workout immediately. All 3 weeks are fully unlocked.

This program is built around a garage gym. Make sure you have consistent access before starting, since the progression model assumes you can perform the same movements week over week.

Each session typically takes around 30 minutes to complete. That estimate covers your working sets but doesn't account for warm-up or rest between sets, so budget a little extra time when you're first learning the movements.

Berzercher Squat Program (Base Version) is structured around 3 training days per week, with rest days built in to allow for recovery. The Boostcamp app lets you reschedule sessions if your week doesn't go to plan.

The program runs for 3 weeks. The structure is designed so that each week builds on the last, with weights, volume, or intensity progressively increasing as you go.

Berzercher Squat Program (Base Version) is available inside the Boostcamp app, free on iOS and Android. Once you download the app, you can search for the program by name. The app tracks all your sets and weights automatically, so you always know exactly what to do next session.

Get started

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