We return to the foundations of programming before we jump off into more advanced programming discussions in upcoming podcasts. Why are simple, hard programs the most effective? How do we decide what to do out of the countless options. The concept of MED evolved out of the idea that what coaches were doing, as opposed to simply jumping from one program (novice linear progression) to another program (some HLM or Texas Method variant), was making small changes to modify LP that led to the intermediate program.   GET STARTED with one-on-one online coaching FOR FREE! Get your FIRST MONTH FREE on all strength and nutrition coaching plans.  No discount code needed and includes a 10-day, no obligation trial.  https://bit.ly/2MKeOoh Special offers from BLOC and our partners:  https://barbell-logic.com/offers/ Connect with the hosts Matt on Instagram Niki on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com Coaches compared notes and realized this is what others were doing, and Matt & Scott explored this on earlier podcasts.  And, when you think about it, this makes a lot of sense. Changing 1 or 2 variables allows you to tinker and better evaluate which changes work in general and which changes a specific lifter responds well to.  With enough consistency over a long enough time, lifters' programming will get complicated. But we don't need to unnecessarily complicate things, and we don't want to throw huge amounts of volume at a lifter because then it's difficult to have anywhere to go from there. This applies to LP with the intensity as well. While you may be able to do 30 more pounds on your squat day 1, if you start with your absolutely 5RM, you really don't have anywhere to go from there.  So, we program simple, hard programming (sorry, but simple & easy doesn't work). We keep things as simple as they can be. We change programming based on the lifter's other life stresses (expected & unexpected). And we build habits & consistency to lead to the changes we want to see.