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Forty-Two Training Overview

Jun 24, 2025

Overview

The session features a demonstration of "Forty-Two" (42) training, specifically focusing on shoulder and triceps workouts, with explanations on exercise execution, weight selection, and progression within a varied bodybuilding program.

Introduction to 42 Training Method

  • Forty-Two (42) training consists of six sets of four reps each, with short rest intervals between sets.
  • Choose a weight that would allow approximately 15 continuous reps if done as a straight set.
  • The goal is to reach failure at or after the fourth set, avoiding early failure to minimize nervous system stress.
  • If more than four reps are achieved during the final set, increase the weight next session.

Shoulder (Delt) Muscle Rounds Demonstration

  • Three muscle rounds were performed: targeting middle, anterior, and posterior deltoid heads.
  • If failure occurs before the planned set, reduce weight using a "drop set" to maintain training volume and rep quality.
  • Proper form is prioritized over achieving more reps to prevent sloppy execution.
  • Dropping 15-30% weight is suggested depending on the point of failure during the set.
  • The muscle round method ensures consistent volume and varied stimuli for hypertrophy by altering set types, rep ranges, and loading.

Integration into Weekly Training

  • The demonstrated workout represents a high-volume shoulder session and is only a portion of a complete upper body training day.
  • Typically, delts are trained after back and chest, and triceps are included in the same session; abs and biceps are addressed on lower body days.

Guidance and Resources

  • The program is detailed extensively in the "Forty-Two Training" book, which includes overview sheets and a discussion board for support.
  • Overview sheets and lost book copies can be downloaded for free.
  • Once the system is understood, workout structure and progression become straightforward.

Triceps Muscle Round Example

  • Demonstration includes using proper equipment setup to maximize training effectiveness and minimize unnecessary effort.
  • Four clean reps per set with good form is the goal; weight should be selected to ensure all reps are completed without failure.
  • Adjust technique and weight as necessary to balance form and effort.

Decisions

  • Increase weight for future sessions if more than four reps are completed on the sixth set.

Action Items

  • TBD – Participants: Adjust weights in subsequent sessions based on number of reps achieved in the final set.
  • TBD – Interested learners: Download overview sheets and resources to better understand program integration and progression.