526 reviews for 5/3/1 Boring But Big

5/3/1 Boring But Big (BBB) is a popular variation of Jim Wendler's famous 531 method for intermediate lifters to gain size and strength. It focuses on high volume accessories to induce hypertrophy after the main strength sets.

5/3/1 BBB is based on Jim Wendler's original article and is also free on the Reddit r/fitness wiki. Be sure to check out Jim's 5/3/1 Forever book, which collects all of Jim's methods.

5/3/1 BBB is free on Boostcamp App. You can also find other 5/3/1 templates like 5/3/1 for Beginners and 5/3/1 Building the Monolith in app format.

Read the full 5/3/1 program guide below.

4.25 / 5

Aran L.

Man, 21
a day ago

3 weeks complete

1 year of prior experience

As expected strength gains

As expected muscle gains

Marginal modifications

The only good power building routine

David J.

Man, 51
7 days ago

3 weeks complete

8 years of prior experience

Less than expected strength gains

As expected muscle gains

Marginal modifications

Good program. But it's named appropriately

Lynn Mirovsky

Man, 54
8 days ago

3 weeks complete

8 years of prior experience

As expected strength gains

As expected muscle gains

Marginal modifications

X

Joy F.

Woman, 26
12 days ago

3 weeks complete

4 years of prior experience

More than expected strength gains

More than expected muscle gains

Marginal modifications

Fewer sets than I'm used to because it really focuses on compound movements. I was skeptical but I do feel like I pushed hard during each workout. At the end of the program I feel like I've made gains without losing anything or injuring myself.

Matt Cipollone

Man, 43
16 days ago

3 weeks complete

8 years of prior experience

As expected strength gains

As expected muscle gains

Marginal modifications

Stick to the plan - don’t go crazy with accessories.

Alec_Nichols_93

Man, 32
21 days ago

3 weeks complete

8 years of prior experience

As expected strength gains

As expected muscle gains

Marginal modifications

One of the all time greats. 5/3/1 forever.

Anonymous

Man
a month ago

3 weeks complete

8 years of prior experience

As expected strength gains

As expected muscle gains

Marginal modifications

Easy to follow

Adam A.

Man, 25
a month ago

3 weeks complete

2 years of prior experience

As expected strength gains

As expected muscle gains

No modifications

Does exactly what you think it does lol.

Shawn Smith

Man, 51
a month ago

3 weeks complete

3 years of prior experience

As expected strength gains

As expected muscle gains

Marginal modifications

It gives you goals to meet and beat. Doing multiple rounds are really beneficial.

Jabin G.

Man, 39
a month ago

3 weeks complete

8 years of prior experience

As expected strength gains

As expected muscle gains

Marginal modifications

It's a good simple program for those who use a home gym.