Hey guys, I’m an intermediate with a 405 squat, 550 deadlift, 155 OHP at 183 bodyweight, age 28 5’11" interested in powerlifting and strengthlifting. Until recently my best squat was a very grindy 402. I took a vacation and didn’t touch a barbell for 11 days. My diet was garbage (maybe maintenance calories but low protein), sleep was questionable, and I went off of creatine. Immediately after I returned, I walked into the gym and noticed the warmups for squats felt light as hell. I worked up to a slow but smooth 405 squat! So it seems that fatigue dissipated during my vacation and I was able to display strength I didn’t know I had. This has made me extremely excited for what a true proper peak could do for me. I know the basics I think: Volume for heavier lifts can be tapered sooner, smaller lifters can have a shorter taper than larger lifters, etc. My question is:
What are some good resources to educate oneself on how to peak? Books, websites, articles? I’m a graduate student and can’t really afford a coach at the moment. I’m always paranoid that when I peak I will detrain and lose strength, but the effects of this 11 day break have really gotten me excited.