MASSIVThe Massiv Blog
Real programs, explained properly.
Straight-talking guides to the programs lifters actually run — the rules, the progression, and the mistakes to avoid. Written by the team building Massiv.
The Best Workout Tracker App in 2026
Hevy, Strong, Fitbod, Jefit and more — an honest comparison, sorted by whether you want a logger, a generator, or an app that runs your program.
Program guidePush/Pull/Legs (PPL) Split: A Complete Guide
The full PPL guide — 6-day and 3-day schedules, sample sessions, and exactly how to progress it.
Program guideStrongLifts 5×5: The Complete Guide
The two workouts, the exact progression and deload rules, and why 5×5 stalls — plus what to run next.
FundamentalsProgressive Overload Explained
The one principle behind every program — what it means, the five ways to apply it, and how fast to push.
ToolsHevy Alternative: When to Switch and What to Pick
Hevy is a great free logger — but if you want the app to run your program's progression, here's where to go.
ToolsStrong App Alternative: For Lifters Who Follow a Plan
Strong logs cleanly but won't run a program. The best alternatives — and how to bring your CSV history along.
Program guide5/3/1 Explained: A Complete Guide for Intermediate Lifters
Wendler's 4-week wave, AMRAP sets, and how to set your training max — the whole system, plainly.
ComparisonPHUL vs PPL: Which Should You Run?
Upper/lower power-hypertrophy or push/pull/legs? How to pick based on your schedule and goals.
Program guideGZCLP Progression Rules, Step by Step
T1/T2/T3 tiers, the exact failure rules, and how the linear progression actually advances.
Program guideThe Best Dumbbell-Only Workout Program (4 Days)
A full 4-day split you can run with nothing but a pair of adjustable dumbbells.
ToolsThe Best App for 5/3/1 in 2026
An honest comparison of what actually runs the wave math for you — and what just stores numbers.
ToolsFree StrongLifts Alternative (That Doesn't Suck)
What to use instead of decade-old shovelware for 5×5 and everything after it.
Program guideGlute Hypertrophy Program: 4 Days, Full Gym
A 4-day glute-focused hypertrophy block with progression targets and weak-point work.
ToolsThe Best Apple Watch Lifting App in 2026
Standalone set logging, wrist rest timers, and rotary-crown input — what to look for and what to skip.
ToolsFree Fitbod Alternative: Real Programs Without the Subscription
A structured program with automatic progression — without the monthly fee — and bring your Fitbod history with you.
Program guidePHUL Program: Full 4-Week Schedule + Progression Rules
Every session, every exercise, and exactly how to progress both the power and hypertrophy days of the PHUL split.