
EP 97: Stuck Between Weights in the Gym? Here’s How to Progress
The Hybrid Lab with Dr. Alyssa OlenickShow Notes
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Do you struggle when the next dumbbell or barbell jump feels way too heavy? You’re not alone — this is one of the most common lifting frustrations, especially in commercial gyms where weights only increase in 5–10 lb jumps.
In this video, I’ll walk you through exactly what to do when you’re stuck between weights so you can still progress, get stronger, and apply progressive overload without stalling.
What you’ll learn: - How to progress if the next dumbbell jump is too heavy - Smart ways to increase reps instead of weights - How to use cluster sets and partial sets to bridge the gap - Why change plates (even fractional plates) are a game-changer - How to use top sets and back-off sets for continued progress
These strategies work whether you’re training with dumbbells, barbells, or machines — and are especially useful for women, beginners, and anyone lifting in a gym without smaller increments.
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Time Stamps: 0:00 - Introduction 0:30 - What to do with dumbbells 1:00 - Increasing reps/matching RPE 2:00 - 1/2 heavier sets 2:30 - Break up your sets 4:00 - Increasing barbell movements 4:25 - Change plates 5:20 - Backoff sets
#StrengthTraining #ProgressiveOverload #WeightLiftingTips #GymProgress #DumbbellWorkout #LiftingTips #GetStronger #BarbellTraining #BeginnerLifting #HybridTraining
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