The Hybrid Lab with Dr. Alyssa Olenick

EP 97: Stuck Between Weights in the Gym? Here’s How to Progress

The Hybrid Lab with Dr. Alyssa Olenick

Show Notes

📲 Get my free lifting calculator & RPE guide to start actually training hard enough in the gym: https://bit.ly/4mtleF5

→ This video is a podcast version of a full YouTube video! Watch it here on Spotify (video edition) or YouTube: https://youtu.be/BbT4XGUwGXs

Get $20 off your first month with code PODCAST: → https://www.thelyssmethod.com/

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.

🤘🏻 TRAIN WITH ME HERE → https://www.thelyssmethod.com/programs 🤘🏻 FOLLOW LYSS ON IG → https://www.instagram.com/doclyssfitness/ 🤘🏻 LEARN MORE + FREE RESOURCES → https://doclyssfitness.com/

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

More from The Hybrid Lab with Dr. Alyssa Olenick

Oct 16, 2026

What if you could run faster, feel more resilient, and build stronger bones without adding a single mile?

Oct 1, 2026

Take the Quiz to Find Your Perfect Training Program! https://www.thelyssmethod.com/#quiz

Sep 17, 2026

🔥 Get my free MACRO CALCULATOR here to help figure out how much to start eating to support your training. → https://bit.ly/4d8ZTMJ

Sep 11, 2026

Ready to start running but not sure where to begin? In this video, Alyssa shares essential beginner running tips to help you ease into running safely and sustainably. Whether you’re new to fitness or just getting back into it, these tips will set you up for success.

Sep 4, 2026

Should you train for trail and ultra races by time on feet or by mileage? If you come from road running, this might change how you train completely.

See all episodes →