Block periodization and how to set up training during a bulk

Training Q&A [Moderated]
1

Hi BBM,

I am currently 4-5 months in to a long term lean bulk where I intend to gain around 10-15 kg. Just to give some background - I am 20 years old, my height is 179 cm and I weigh 72.5 kg @ around 14% bf (Started the bulk at 70 kg), and this is my first bulk since my last one a few years ago due to training on and off because of injuries.
My main goals during this bulk are both hypertrophy and gaining strength on all the main powerlifting movements (I’ve seen people refer to this as “powerbuilding”).

I am about to start phase 3 of the beginner template and have started thinking about where I should go after this template, and in general how a bulk should be set up with my goals in mind.
For example, would it be beneficial to set up my training as follows in order to (I assume) gradually up the volume which from what I understand is the main driver of hypertrophy, while also running templates that involve an emphasis on strength:

  • Beginner template
  • Powerbuilding I
  • Powerbuilding II
  • Hypertrophy I
  • Hypertrophy II

Or alternatively, is there a different “block periodization” template (I don’t know if this is the currect term) I should use while bulking with my goals?

P.S - I already purchased the Powerbuilding I and II templates a while ago, and therefore would like to run them at some point during this bulk.

Any help would be much appreciated!

2

Hey Ben,

Thanks for the post. I think any of the templates would be well-suited for your goal. I think PB I would be best to run once or twice (if you got good results the first time) back-to-back after the Beginner Template.

Each template is periodized already and I think the template path you choose will be born out over time based on your results, evolving goals, etc. The path is also independent of energy balance.

-Jordan