Super Squats

Program Description

The Super Squats program, forged in the 1930s by Joseph Curtis Hise and popularized by Peary Rader’s Iron Man magazine, defies modern fitness complexity with a singular promise: 30 pounds of muscle in 6 weeks. Built on three pillars—squats, milk, and rest—it transforms even “hard gainers” through relentless effort and old-school discipline. One gut-wrenching set with a weight meant for 10 reps. Lifters take deep breaths between reps to stretch the rib cage and flood muscles with oxygen. Add 5–10 lbs weekly, pushing limits despite trembling legs and nausea. 4,000–5,000 calories/day, emphasizing whole milk (2+ quarts), meat, eggs, and calorie-dense meals. 8+ hours of sleep and minimal activity between workouts (2–3x/week). Why It Works: 20-rep squats shock the entire body, spiking hormones like testosterone and growth hormone. Forced breathing widens the torso, creating a larger foundation for muscle growth. The extreme stress triggers nutrient partitioning toward muscle repair. In an era of gadget-driven workouts, Super Squats is a rallying cry for simplicity. No machines, supplements, or gimmicks—just barbells, milk, and grit. As Peary Rader declared, “The squat is the greatest single exercise known to man.” For lifters seeking rapid gains and timeless lessons in perseverance, this program remains the ironclad standard.

Program Overview