Go to the Progression Table once more. Take a look at the top row—the one where it lists the number of the workout with the letters A, B, and C underneath. Note that there’s an "F" under the letter C of Workouts #5, 7, 9, and 11. That "F" stands for failure, and during the third set of the workouts listed, you’ll need to do a Failure Test to determine your progress up to that point. If you "pass" the test, you’ll need to move up one 5-pound increment on the Progression Table. If you "fail" the test, you’ll need to move back one 5-pound increment. If you just get an average "grade," you stay on course because you’re right on track.

Let me give you an example using our 280-lb 1RM scenario again. Let’s say it’s Workout #5, and you’re about to do your failure set. The Progression Table says you’re supposed to load 255 lbs on the bar. Now, do as many reps as you can, with good form, of course. If you did only one rep (or couldn’t lift it at all), you’ll need to drop one 5-pound increment on the Progression Table. In other words, on your next chest workout, you’ll simply use 275 lbs as your 1RM instead of 280 on Workout #6.

If you do between 2 and 4 reps with 255 lbs, you’ll continue using the increments and poundages listed for a 280-lb 1RM.

And, finally, if you do 5 or more reps with 255 lbs, you’re moving too fast, and you’ll need to start using the increments and poundages listed for a 285-lb 1RM when you get to Workout #6.

You’ll be required to do these tests several times during the remainder of the program. This important feature allows you to progress at your own pace!

Here’s a point-by-point rehash of what I just explained regarding the Failure Test:

1. During the third set of Workouts #5, 7, 9, and 11, you’ll be required to do a Failure Test to evaluate your progress.
2. Set up the bench-press bar with the weight listed on the Progression Table for your Failure Test.
3. Using good form, do as many reps as you can.
4. If you do one rep or can’t lift the bar at all, you’ll need to go back one 5-pound increment on the Progression Table. The new 1RM will be used to calculate subsequent workouts, until, of course, you get to the next Failure Test when you’ll check your progress again.
5. If you do between two and four reps, continue using the same 1RM you’ve been using to calculate the poundages you use for subsequent workouts, until, of course, you get to the next Failure Test when you’ll check your progress again.
6. If you do five or more reps, you’ll need to go up one 5-pound increment on the Progression Table. The new 1RM will be used to calculate subsequent workouts, until, of course, you get to the next Failure Test when you’ll check your progress again.