Jim Wendler 5/3/1 - Stop Looking For The Perfect Program

Instagram - / jimwendler
Tik Tok - www.tiktok.com...
Your program probably isn't holding you back from success. As long as you are consistent, believe in what you are doing and give great effort (and your program has some common sense!) - stop looking for the perfect program.
Instead, there are many other factors that people overlook. Listen in and find out your TRUE weak points.
Comment below if you have any questions or have any ideas for future videos.
Stay Frosty. Be Awesome.
*** Jim Wendler is the author/creator of the 5/3/1 training program. He played football (and graduated) from the University of Arizona and earned 3 letters. He totaled 2375lbs in the 275lbs class and has squatted 1000lbs in competition. He is currently the Strength and Conditioning coach for London High School football in London, Ohio. Sorry ladies - he is married with 2 kids. One of which did all the editing for this video. So if you don't like it, blame him.
Opening music by Locust Whip (Jim Wendler and Joey Waters)

[@dadbod488]

When I grow up, I want to be just like Jim Wendler. I'm 35 years old.

[@JimWendler]

I still feel like I graduated HS - time is one thing I no longer take for granted.

[@mikemusgrove9654]

Thanks for posting this, Jim. “The world needs more strong, dangerous men with a strong moral code.” -Jim Wendler.

[@JimWendler]

You are welcome!

[@noternX]

The training channel everyone needed. Welcome Jim! Much respect.

[@JimWendler]

Thank you! I hope my son and I can continue to "dazzle" you with common sense.

[@CaffeineHigh14]

Praise Odin! The realest one in the game is finally on KZbin!

[@JimWendler]

Even my breasts are real - I bet you didn't know that!

[@Jerzius]

The impact of your books on my life is way beyond training. You have no idea how much I actually have to thank you for.

[@JimWendler]

You are very, very welcome.

[@BlueCollarCombat94]

This is so long over due. I've been reading Jims content ever since I started training. Like a lot of people 531 was one of the first programs I followed and I still refer back to my 531 books every so often just to glean some knowledge from them and also I just like Jim's no bullshit writing style. Im looking forward to seeing what's in store on this channel. Thanks Jim.

[@JimWendler]

Thank you for the comment! Keep training hard.

[@AlexanderBromley]

Really happy to see this. This space needs the message to tether strength training principles back to life principles.

[@lovesgibson]

Don’t you run a drama gossip clickbait algorithm manipulation youtube channel?

[@AlexanderBromley]

@@lovesgibson Yep. Nice to meet you.

[@JimWendler]

I will do my best to keep things as "normal" and common sense as possible - with a touch of insanity.

[@SFRB1187]

Hell yes, he’s back!

[@helmutkrusemann9194]

Yes!!! Hell yes! He’s the best. Thank you very much Jim, I appreciate you

[@JimWendler]

Thank you, Helmut!

[@DualCitizen85]

Jim, I was fortunate to find 531 over a decade ago and I’ve never looked back. Just yesterday I gave my oldest son the original 531 and wrote his first wave. We’re both excited. I’m fired see your passion, and mindset focused on raising up future generations. Great stuff man!!

[@JimWendler]

This is great to read - changing the world starts with being a good person - and then raising/coaching/teaching kids. Keep it up!

[@robstr12]

The cleaned up version of Jim Wendler is unstoppable. Full speed ahead now!

[@JimWendler]

I do shower 2-3 times/day. You should smell me...

[@SFRB1187]

Absolute GOLD

[@JimWendler]

Thank you!

[@malcolmhales8181]

So true. Here in the UK there's no strength training/ coaching in schools. I was lucky to be a standout sprinter at junior school, and was talent spotted . My parent's were going through a divorce, and my coach became my confident, those morals yiu talked about are so true. Hard work, a good ethic, be polite, be kind, always try your best, its ok to fail occasionally, dont be led by the "norms" . Thanks for posting this.

[@JimWendler]

That's awesome to read - having a coach to train you AND mentor you is huge. It's crazy how little S/C coaching there is in the UK. It's a shame, too. S/C does a great job of getting average kids a chance.

[@eddie4130]

So awesome to have you on here now, keep it up!

[@JimWendler]

Thank you, Eddie!

[@ZEvenEsh]

Jim, I am so pumped up to see you posting a video on KZbin!!! 🔥🔥🔥

[@JimWendler]

Zach - can't wait to see you again. It's a good excuse for me to eat a shitload of food and write it off as "business expense"! You are one of the good ones - thank you for being a great friend.

[@abdeldjalilbelhani6244]

"In fact The world needs more dangerous men , with Strong moral code " Great quote , thx for the video jim

[@JimWendler]

You are very welcome.

[@dinomagical]

If you need video ideas I would appreciate a video series for beginners on how to get kids started exercising. I heard on Dave Tate's table talk that you work with kids and teach them how to train from scratch, so it seems like you be an expert in this field. thx

[@manuelsiegelin3997]

brilliant suggestion

[@JimWendler]

That's a bit of a misnomer - my wife works with the younger kids. By the time they get to me - they already know the basics. But working with kids is more about communication and organization/patience than exercises or programs. People forget that!

[@alvinsphan]

Came here for lifting advice. I am extremely grateful for the life/lifting advice in the middle of it. I am going through a difficult patch in my life and you reminded me that there ARE things I am in control of and I can be better than I was yesterday. Thank you.

[@KaoWins]

Jim is an OG of OGs! You're one of the first guys who got me into strength training over 10 years ago Jim.

[@JimWendler]

Thank you, Kao. Stay consistent, be awesome.

[@andreasbjerrumlarsen6927]

Here to support as much as I can - great to see Jim on YT!

[@JimWendler]

It's better than Only Fans!

[@laceylacroix1861]

I can’t believe I just found this channel. I’m newer to lifting only about a 2 years in, I heard of 531 only about a year ago from a KZbinr. I have a coach and do Olympic weightlifting, but I really like the philosophy of 531 of being in good shape and all around good. I have the forever book and it’s a great resource. I liked the part you talked about farm work as I have been tossing hay and loading feed bags and stuff since I was a young girl. Now I’ve been lifting for about two years and I squatted 250 at 115lbs.

[@arcaneknight9799]

Did you hear about 5/3/1 from Blaha? Jim Wendler roasted him in 2015. Blaha now refuses to answer 5/3/1 questions for some reasons and just says to ask Jim Wendler.

[@JimWendler]

250 at 115lbs is awesome - you got the farm strength!

[@laceylacroix1861]

@@JimWendler thank you! That really means a lot coming from you! But I have to credit my coach.

[@laceylacroix1861]

@@arcaneknight9799 yes, but I don’t know anything about the drama.

[@arcaneknight9799]

@@laceylacroix1861 Coach Blaha had some nerve criticizing Jim Wendler and 5/3/1.

[@wamboschannel]

Hey Jim, so great to have you here! Now please go on and tell us all about Walrus-Training.

[@JimWendler]

I already shot a "weight vest basics" video. WALRUS training will be later - thank you for the suggestion!

[@wamboschannel]

@@JimWendler Sounds great!

[@robertbatista7164]

Your advice has been so influential to my training and how I raised all my sons. One gem from the old days is "don't major in the minors" I tack that on to every single thing in my life.

[@JimWendler]

Robert - hope things are awesome! Great to hear from you. I appreciate the support.

[@robertbatista7164]

@@JimWendler looking forward to the new content here! -Mr Grey Pubes.

[@carlitoapplecool]

I didnt believe my eyes when i saw that this channel has a new video. At first i tought YT was buggy, haha. Anyways, i hope for lots of stuff, will be waiting to watch and re-watch it all. I still watch some of your old 531 top sets on this channel before my training.

[@JimWendler]

Glad I didn't shoot this video with a gas mask/nipple clamps on - then you'd know someone dropped some LSD in your morning coffee.

[@medwsc123]

So glad he's picking up the 531 content 🙌

[@espenstoro]

Oh man that's the truth. I ran my own piece of shit program based on no knowledge or experience for a year, pushed it hard, backed off when my body told me to calm down, and I made good progress. A garbage program done consistently isn't the worst thing in the world. Deadlift twice a week had a pretty short shelf life though, but we learned something. I've since gone 531, and it feels much better to progress without being close to the breaking point every single session.

[@amukherjee424]

Let’s go Jim!

[@jamesward6973]

Great stuff, I've been looking forward to this. Jim's simplified back to basics approach on training, and life i general, reminds me of the the late and great Dr ken leistner RIP,

[@FIGGY65]

Outstanding comment. I miss Dr. Ken, and Bill Starr. RIP to these two amazing mentors of life and strength training.

[@jamesward6973]

@@FIGGY65 Thanks for the kind words . I feel so lucky to have been exposed to Dr kens articles through the hardgainer magazines, and the life in the loft series in Milo. Jim's one of the very few who reminds me of Leistner, Bill Starr etc. Jim Steel would be in there too.

[@JimWendler]

Dr. Ken is one of the GREATS. Plus, every conversation I had with Dr. Ken was beyond funny. He was a good person and I cherish every single time I got to talk to him.

[@SubSonicDistortion]

I train using the chaos method, fully ripped and never looking back. Trained under master Lim Su Ti in Japan. Once you learn to walk on glass walking for life is easy.

[@GetJackedOrStayFat]

Just got back into lifting a couple months ago after about at 12 year hiatus. Wish i never stopped. Im pumped to start boring but big soon! Hopefully itll get me back to where i used to be and then BUST through my old numbers! 💪

[@jasonsmithers8080]

The world needs more men like JW. much love from Australia

[@erasmofloresnutriologo]

Hello Jim, I hope you are well brother, I just want to thank you for your work, your dedication, for how real you are. This world is getting stranger every time and I feel stranger not understanding many of the trends that emerge day by day. I have been training with your 5/3/1 method for almost 12 years, I have made a mistake and I have fallen into the clutches of CrossFit (where I have been injured) but here I am at 40 years old training and loving every day that I go to train. I hope one day to be able to meet you in person, I know many have told you this but thanks to you and your work I was able to overcome my addictions. I send you a hug and wish you the best in the world brother. Greetings from Mexico (I used Google Translator that's why it reads a bit weird haha)

[@Gotowarwithyourself]

Jim: thank you for all you have contributed to helping others develop the mental, emotional and physical skills to dominate. And for waving the flag for metal 🤘

[@JimWendler]

You are welcome - and the metal world needs a giant kick in the nuts.

[@mikeverwys5343]

Oh hell yes!!

[@JimWendler]

Damn right!

[@nicoe.5420]

Even though i changed programs within the last decade, ever since i read 531 (at the age of 16) your philosophy has shaped my approach towards my Lifting and any other physical activities - wich in return shaped my Character. Thank you for that and greets from Germany!

[@JimWendler]

Hello, from kind-of-middle America (Ohio)! I appreciate the support.

[@the-half-way-point]

Great to see you on here. Excellent content as I expected. Fading between scenes takes away from the experience . Looking forward to your upcoming content.

[@JimWendler]

Thank you! I appreciate you watching!

[@Kwristy]

Thanks for this! Been following 5/3/1 consistently for over a year, it's great for me.

[@JimWendler]

Consistency is one of the "secrets"!

[@jebadiah4]

Jim has posted something! 😱😱😱😱😱 YAS!

[@johnandcathylynch7597]

Jim, thanks, I know some coaches and parents that need to hear this. You can improve what you have and amaze people with hard work

[@JimWendler]

Just make sure YOU hear it, your players/children hear it!

[@kweebtech7614]

I recently started 5/3/1 BBB I bought the 2.0 book recently and I’m really enjoying it.

[@JimWendler]

Best advice - keep the TM LIGHT, keep the bar speed AWESOME - and be consistent and persistent.

[@12mrajay]

Liked. Commented. Subscribed.

[@JimWendler]

Thank you - much appreciated.

[@stark_outdoors]

THANK YOU FOR POSTING ON HERE AGAIN!

[@JimWendler]

You are welcome!

[@chrischand5082]

Great video Jim, followed you for a long time and simplicity has always been your thing, sometimes we all need reminding to just keep it simple, look forward to more content. 👍

[@JimWendler]

Remember that "simple" means a bit more than just the basics - you have to do the basics 100% correct, with focus and a touch of insanity.

[@TheDaviddisney]

Love the fact you are back on here- little videos are a great way to reach people and explain things!!! Love your programs man. Been following you since the old days of Elite Q&A

[@Fitnessheretic]

Criminal upload schedule

[@JimWendler]

This comment made both my day - and my oldest son's day. Too funny!

[@markusmayer1]

A legends upload schedule

[@brianmcg321]

Lol

[@skylermiller6921]

Brilliant! Please continue to do these videos!

[@JimWendler]

Thank you - I assume your name is Skyler - so thank you, Skyler!

[@deranged-4118]

I just picked up your program and read the book tonight. I'm starting in the gym tomorrow coming off a shoulder surgery. My current goal is 3 months of kicking my own ass and back to active duty again. I plan to continue this program for atleast a year as I'm very new to weight lifting.

[@johnhill861]

Awesome to see you on YT. 5/3/1 is my go to recommendation when I get asked about training plans.

[@JimWendler]

Thank you, John! Spread the word of consistency, belief and awesomeness - regardless of programs.

[@letfeardriveu2succeed951]

Wendler on KZbin? Damn highlight of the year lol

[@JimWendler]

I hope your year gets WAY better. Thank you for watching. Be awesome.

[@altruisticscoundrel]

Yes! More videos and content, especially little livestreams here and there?

[@JimWendler]

One thing at a time - I wouldn't even know what to livestream.

[@altruisticscoundrel]

@@JimWendler start with a 20 minute BS with subscribers, avoid politics and religion.

[@JimWendler]

@@altruisticscoundrel Got it - thank you!

[@hitleractually8180]

You give incredible advice. No BS, just straight to the point, easy to understand and incorporate.

[@JimWendler]

Thank you!

[@Z_Santan]

My mom didn't appreciate my tirade about my genetics. Probably because I'm almost 40. 😅 Great vid!

[@JimWendler]

The truth hurts! Thank you watching/commenting.

[@xXkillmusicXx]

Hopefully you came to stay, give us more of it!

[@JimWendler]

I'm no 1 pump-chump! More like 2 to 3....

[@jamesgearyjames]

Inspirational words. Thanks Jim. I rate the 531 programme and its adaptability. Some of us want to get strong but it's not the only goal. Following something like the triumvirate 2x a week is a nice way to make predictable gains and still be able to dedicate time to running, climbing, mma, etc. 👊

[@codywallison]

Read/watched your content for years, because it’s always been true and accurate. The fitness industry needs more common sense and honesty. Always good to see more. Thanks

[@JimWendler]

Thank you, Cody!

[@mikefran3599]

The man has returned

[@JimWendler]

I never left - just was gathering knowledge via coaching, training, reading, coaching, more training and slowly losing my mind due to having kids. Thank you!

[@runesandreps]

A lot of people were waiting for that moment, Sir.

[@JimWendler]

Love your user name! T-Nation always did right by me and I will always be thankful for the opportunities they gave me.

[@denoffitness3379]

Your way of no BS writing is amazing. Please continue your videos and blogs. ❤

[@JimWendler]

Thank you!

[@MONSTROBK13]

Hell yes. Discipline/Motivation

[@JimWendler]

Amen!

[@bigengine74]

I'm an Olympic weightlifter and decided to try something different.... starting 531 today. I love the simplicity of the program. Looking forward to it

[@chrissutter5798]

Loved this!

[@prashobh8905]

Starting Strength (beginner) and 531 (Late beginner to advanced) is the best sucessful strength training system in the world

[@Simon53188]

Hero!!! More uploads please 🙏 Looks like a Mayhem shirt but not.

[@JimWendler]

Ha! I'm glad you noticed.

[@Vladtje]

Thanks Jim, awesome new project to pick up with your son! Curious about next episode already!

[@JimWendler]

Any excuse to bullshit with my son = good times!

[@juanzumbado71]

Jim has his own slot on KZbin. Love it!!!!

[@JimWendler]

Thank you, Juan!

[@jkeips78]

Late to the game here comment wise Jim but this is golden stuff. Totally reminds me of the preachings of Dan John. Very common sense advice. Well said sir.

[@JimWendler]

Thank you for the comment - Dan John is a stud!

[@wwechampion]

The legend himself, Jim Wendler!!

[@maskedgk]

Expand these ideas into a book and I'll make it mandatory reading for all the fathers I know. Also when is too early to weight train? My 3.5 year old is a savage and I want to get him slowly and steadily in love with the iron.

[@JimWendler]

It's never too early to train - just has to be scaled down for age, attention span AND YOUR coaching abilities. #1 rule of coaching - don't coach what you don't know.

[@denoffitness3379]

Your book 5/3/1 is amazing jim, boring but big, your blogs and tips are life changing.

[@danwrate3147]

Fuck me has Jim actually uploaded a video

[@JimWendler]

I will not do so!

[@keithbobrosky6334]

Welcome back Jim, thanks for the insight...past, present and hopefully future.

[@JimWendler]

Thank you, Keith.

[@amandeepsingh-mk3hy]

Was born with Elhers Danlos and should finally be able to lift like a normal healthy person next year at age 30 haha. Can't wait to start 5/3/1 then!! In the meantime, I bought the Forever Book and am aiming towards your minimum standards for bodyweight assistance (since I can at least do those exercises without pain). Thanks for everything!

[@JimWendler]

Always make sure you have a high level of "fitness" - that will be mean different things, to different people. So keep plugging away and you'll be able to find your "standard". Strength is awesome and something I love, but the higher your readiness/fitness levels - the more potential you will have.

[@paulleclaire8252]

Make more of these Jim! This ruled!

[@JimWendler]

At some point, I'm going to be more comfortable talking to a camera...thank you for watching/commenting!

[@bradleyduggan86]

Thanks Jim, followed your advice for years, your book has been a great friend to me over the years. Keep your you tube channel going, people will listen to what you have to say. Looking forward to a walrus training book.

[@JimWendler]

I appreciate the comment, Bradley.

[@powderedtoastman6265]

I would add: BREATHE THROUGH YOUR NOSE!!! Changed my life.

[@bold2013]

Basically be a zealot. Grounded in truth and disciple.

[@CrashMetaReligion1996]

Excited to see content from you! Great video

[@TaskForceCP]

I absolutely freaking love this Jim

[@JimWendler]

Thank you Mr Task Force!

[@victorgomez6330]

Thanks Jim. Really needed to hear this

[@josephz82]

Great video, not even a word more is needed. Welcome back Jim.

[@JimWendler]

Thank you, Joe!

[@user-kp2yq6ft6y]

Great info. Thanks for always putting out great/real content.

[@JimWendler]

If I could be more entertaining/bombastic - it'd be fake...Thank you!

[@iDj1337]

I think the most critical component of 531 is the technique you have in the big lifts...if the movements are off and your joints are not working in neutral positions you cant improve in the long run. You can find so many different types of "cues" and "technique guidelines" on the Internet but not many are golden or will work for you. Practice makes perfect but thats simply not correct. Most often People compensate by adding more Volume which works, because the body can get away with it. But for me Technique will always be the most important stuff before adding Volume to compensate for bad technique.

[@demetriuscooksey7147]

Thank you my good man. It sounds like you're in a position and have the capacity to make a real difference in some kid's lives. Keep it up, you are doing the Lord's work.

[@JimWendler]

It is a study patience - although I can say that if you aren't coaching, you aren't evolving. Crazy how much you learn when you work with a ton of people.

[@demetriuscooksey7147]

@JimWendler agree 100% I coached optimist football for a few years and worked in cub scouts and boy scouts for several years. If it weren't for my 3 kids I'm currently raising, there would be a pretty big hole in my life.

[@UseDeathMachine]

Great video Jim, love the content and am excited to see more!

[@stopimalreadydead]

Thank you so much for providing these videos Jim!

[@JimWendler]

You are very welcome, Sean.

[@danoontjeh123]

This is amazing advice, thanks Jim!

[@JimWendler]

You are welcome...possibly Dan? Whatever thy name be-ith - I thank ye.

[@glenncarey7205]

Great stuff! Keep em coming 💪

[@JimWendler]

Thank you, Glenn!

[@BJJMadeEasy]

Jim - welcome back to KZbin!

[@user-cf2oe4zw4c]

Ton of great advice in here!

[@JimWendler]

Thank you! I appreciate you watching.

[@jeffreybabino8161]

Hay Jim great job on the video I've been working out for years and I've never heard of this program thanks🏋️

[@razman95x]

Appreciate you, dawg

[@JimWendler]

And I appreciate you!

[@wmunny2152]

Great info! Love the Melvins poster in the background!

[@JimWendler]

Im jealous of Buzz's hair.

[@sloshy_]

Great video Jim. Looking forward to to seeing more of your content on here.

[@JimWendler]

Thank you!

[@IronSwan-ll5ju]

Nice, I definitely need more of this. I don't sub to notifications, but I would here.

[@JimWendler]

Thank you, Mr IronSwan! Much appreciated.

[@chadnelson1150]

Listen up. Knowlege incoming. Jim is the man.

[@JimWendler]

Did you just assume my gender!??!! Thank you, Chad!

[@chadnelson1150]

@@JimWendler haha. I've followed your work years. Excellent work. Hope all is well.

[@Ricky-Noll]

Great. Thank you for the level headed message.

[@JimWendler]

You are welcome!

[@johndonovan5521]

Great vid no matter your age!

[@JimWendler]

Thank you, John!

[@matwoods3505]

Great message Jim! Looking forward to more videos from you on here.

[@JimWendler]

Thank you - I assume your name is Matt - so thank you, Matt!

[@robertogirolamo5475]

Mad respect Jim , your book changed my training life

[@JimWendler]

Thank you! Training changed my life, too. And I had plenty of help when I was growing up. Just passing it on. Stay awesome.

[@jeanilee]

“Stay off your phone”… as I’m on my phone watching this video 😂