Good Mornings and progression

thedreamhazer

I've added Good Mornings into my routine recently, but I'm unsure of how heavy I should be going and whether to progress these. Typically, I add 5 lbs to a lift as soon as I'm able to complete a 3x5 with good form. However, I've read that you should go light with Good Mornings.

I'm currently doing 70 lbs and 3x10 since these are lighter than my other lifts. Should I be progressing this weight like my other lifts, adding more gradually, or not adding at all? Also, for strength building should I do heavy enough for a 3x5 on these or is 3x10 a better choice?

Thanks!

BusyRaeNOTBusty

::butting in:: I switched to straight legged dead-lifts because I felt more comfortable with higher weight on it than with good mornings. And I was getting bruises on my neck bones.

thedreamhazer

I hadn't thought of that, I'll take it into consideration. I'd prefer not to add another type of deadlift because my hands are in rough shape, but if I can't figure out good mornings then that's a great option. Thanks, Rae!

(Also -- I feel it in my hammies more when I do GMs, maybe I'm doing the SLDLs [I actually do RDLs] incorrectly?)

steve_mfp

I'd only suggest Good Mornings after you are able to do 5 sets of 15 of back raises. Once you can easily do that, then i'd graduate to GM's...which you may be ready for.

With Good Mornings it is better to focus on the form and movement with light weights and minimal reps of 10. This is an accessory exercise not a primary. I wouldn't increase the weight till you can easily do 5 sets of 15 reps.

Also if possible when GM's is to use a squat safety bar...it's padded and has better grip extensions...this way you don't bruise your neck meat and allows you to keep better form.

auddii

Bumping for you. I don't have anything to add really. I've only done GM as part of a barbell complex that I do more for cardio. I like having them in there in general because I'm hoping that I can really concentrate on form and help with hip drive for my squats. But, because I'm doing it more for cardio I don't have any set plans for increasing weight (OHP is the weight limiting factor during the complex), so I can't help with a plan for that.

Sarauk2sf

Hi!

Keep GM's light. I would do sets of 8-15 reps - progressing very slowly re adding weight. As steve noted - focus on form. Do them in a very controlled manner.

DopeItUp

::butting in:: I switched to straight legged dead-lifts because I felt more comfortable with higher weight on it than with good mornings. And I was getting bruises on my neck bones.

You may want to consider lowering the bar a bit if you're getting bruises on your neck. The bar shouldn't even be touching your neck in the first place.