Bryce KrawczykIdeal for intermediates aiming to boost strength and technique through structured periodization.
The Calgary Barbell Program, designed by Canadian powerlifter and coach Bryce Krawczyk, is a structured plan focused on progressive overload, technical mastery, and recovery management. Built from real competition experience, it balances intensity and fatigue through deload and taper weeks across 8 or 16 weeks. With four weekly sessions, it aims to help intermediate and advanced lifters peak their performance and achieve new 1RM records efficiently.
Program Roadmap
The Calgary Barbell Program is an 8- or 16-week periodized routine for intermediate to advanced lifters. Built around the squat, bench, and deadlift, it uses RPE-based progressive overload with top and backoff sets to build strength and skill. A deload week manages fatigue, while a final taper week prepares for 1RM testing. Accessory work targets weak points, creating a structured, adaptable program for consistent performance gains.
Chest
Legs
AbsChest
BackLegsChestBackLegsChestBackLegs- Log RPE each session to monitor fatigue and progress.
- Rest 3–5 minutes between sets for full recovery.
- Prioritize thorough warm-up and mobility before main lifts.
- Optimize sleep, nutrition, and hydration for recovery.
- Record lifts to check form and address weaknesses regularly.
- If your 1RM is 100kg
- "80%" on a set means you should lift 80kg.
Hello! I'm Bryce Krawczyk, a powerlifter and coach from Canada. I'm the founder and head coach of Calgary Barbell, and I've been competing in drug-free powerlifting for many years across various national and international meets. I have represented Canada at the IPF World Championships in both raw and equipped divisions, and hold some of the top Canadian records in deadlift and overall powerlifting total (squat + bench press + deadlift). The Calgary Barbell programs are designed not just to lift heavy weights, but to help athletes reach their peak performance through structured intensity management and peaking phases. With my experience, I aim to help you achieve your goals more efficiently and safely.
