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Table of Contents
- What does RX mean?
- To scale or not to scale?
- When should you use more weight?
- Conclusion: RX as a goal – but with foresight
What does RX actually mean?
In functional training programs such as Breakout Strength & Performance, RX (short for “as prescribed”) means that a workout is performed exactly as it was originally programmed – without adjustments to weight, number of repetitions or range of motion .
An RX athlete meets all standards with good technique and at high intensity – that’s no small feat. It requires a strong foundation, technical confidence, and physical and mental stability.
The road to achieving this is long – and that’s perfectly fine. Progress requires patience, structure, and discipline.
To scale or not to scale?
Scaling means adapting a workout to the individual—whether through reduced weights, simplified movements, or shortened repetitions. The goal is to maintain the training stimulus without compromising technique or safety.
When does scaling make sense?
- Fitness level: If you’re just starting out or coming back after a break, scaling is key to sustainable growth.
- Movement experience: If you are not yet familiar with certain exercises (e.g. snatches, pull-ups).
- Weight vs. Form: When you can’t lift the given weight with proper technique , especially when fatigued.
- Form before ego: As soon as your technique starts to suffer, scale up—even as an advanced athlete. Injury prevention always comes first.
Scaling isn’t a step backward. It’s a strategic step forward.
Scaling means foresight and intelligence in training – it enables you to develop your skills solidly and make healthy progress in the long term.
When should you use more weight?
Choosing the right load is a balancing act between technique, intensity, and training goal. Here
are a few guidelines:
- 8–10 clean repetitions: Once you can move a weight in this range with technical control, you can begin to gradually increase the weight.
- Do you feel confident? Test your weight before starting—but be aware: everything feels different under stress.
- Think long-term: It’s not about lifting the heaviest weight today, but about getting stronger over weeks and months .
Example:
If you can do 10 power snatches with 30 kg (66 lbs) technically cleanly, try incorporating 35 kg (77 lbs) into your training more often. But keep 30 kg (66 lbs) for workouts where you want to focus on clean reps at high intensity.
Conclusion: RX as a goal – but with brains
Becoming an RX athlete isn’t about muscle mass or ego, but rather about technique, consistency, and maturity in training . It means mastering a full range of motion, prescribed weights, and movement standards under fatigue and time constraints .
But: RX is n’t a must to be strong, fit, and healthy. Many athletes achieve their goals with scaled work—and still develop impressive physical abilities and an athletic lifestyle.
Our tip:
Keep RX as a guide , but don’t measure your progress by whether you achieve it today. Measure it by how consciously and consistently you train – week after week, month after month.
Not sure if you’re ready for RX?
Then talk to your coach. We’ll help you make the right training decision— not based on your ambition, but on your technique, your progress, and your goal.
Break limits. Build strength.
The next step is yours.
