Programsblacknoir · GZCL

GZCLP: Blacknoir version

Variation of GZCLP from Reddit user u/blacknoir

Weeks
1
Days / week
4
Exercises / day
3
  • Beginner
  • Strength
  • Repeats weekly
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Copy it to your plans in the free app. TopSet works out each set’s target weight from your training max or 1RM.

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Week structure

Week 1

Day 1

  • Barbell High Bar Squat2 × 5 · 75% TMT1. Start at 85% of your 5RM (about 75% of your 1RM). You can set your 1RM in the weekly confirmation popup when training starts, or in exercise details on the Profile page; if unsure, estimate it with the RPE calculator on the Profile page.1 × 5+ · 75% TM
  • Barbell Bench Press4 × 8 · 55% TMT2. Start at 55% of your 1RM. You can set the 1RM in the weekly confirmation popup at the start of training or in the exercise detail on the Profile tab; if unsure, estimate it with the RPE calculator on the Profile tab
  • Cable Lat Pulldown3 × 12 · 60% TMT31 × 12+ · 60% TM

Day 2

  • Barbell Overhead Press2 × 5 · 75% TMT1. Start at 85% of your 5RM (about 75% of your 1RM). You can set your 1RM in the weekly confirmation popup when training starts, or in exercise details on the Profile page; if unsure, estimate it with the RPE calculator on the Profile page.1 × 5+ · 75% TM
  • Barbell Conventional Deadlift4 × 8 · 55% TMT2. Start at 55% of your 1RM. You can set the 1RM in the weekly confirmation popup at the start of training or in the exercise detail on the Profile tab; if unsure, estimate it with the RPE calculator on the Profile tab
  • Barbell Bent Over Row3 × 12 · 60% TMT31 × 12+ · 60% TM

Day 3

  • Barbell Bench Press2 × 5 · 75% TMT1. Start at 85% of your 5RM (about 75% of your 1RM). You can set your 1RM in the weekly confirmation popup when training starts, or in exercise details on the Profile page; if unsure, estimate it with the RPE calculator on the Profile page.1 × 5+ · 75% TM
  • Barbell High Bar Squat4 × 8 · 55% TMT2. Start at 55% of your 1RM. You can set the 1RM in the weekly confirmation popup at the start of training or in the exercise detail on the Profile tab; if unsure, estimate it with the RPE calculator on the Profile tab
  • Cable Lat Pulldown3 × 12 · 60% TMT31 × 12+ · 60% TM

Day 4

  • Barbell Conventional Deadlift2 × 5 · 75% TMT1. Start at 85% of your 5RM (about 75% of your 1RM). You can set your 1RM in the weekly confirmation popup when training starts, or in exercise details on the Profile page; if unsure, estimate it with the RPE calculator on the Profile page.1 × 5+ · 75% TM
  • Barbell Overhead Press4 × 8 · 55% TMT2. Start at 55% of your 1RM. You can set the 1RM in the weekly confirmation popup at the start of training or in the exercise detail on the Profile tab; if unsure, estimate it with the RPE calculator on the Profile tab
  • Barbell Bent Over Row3 × 12 · 60% TMT31 × 12+ · 60% TM

Program guide

Modification of the GZCLP program, with slightly different set x rep schemes and progressions (maybe for somebody who doesn't like 10x1 sets :)). Based on a popular set of elaborate spreadsheets created by a Reddit user /u/blacknoir.

It contains example exercises from both Default GZCLP, Modified GZCLP and Advanced, making it easy to mix and match various types of T1/T2/T3 exercises and craft a weightlifting program for your needs.

FAQ

How is GZCLP Blacknoir different from regular GZCLP?

The Blacknoir version uses different set and rep schemes and progressions compared to standard GZCLP. The most notable change is avoiding the 10x1 stage that some lifters dislike. It also includes Default, Modified, and Advanced exercise templates you can mix and match.

Is GZCLP Blacknoir good for beginners?

Yes, like standard GZCLP it's designed for beginner to early intermediate lifters. It uses the same GZCL tier system (T1/T2/T3) but with modified progression schemes that some lifters find more enjoyable. You should have a few months of training experience before starting.

How many days a week is GZCLP Blacknoir?

GZCLP Blacknoir is a 3-day program. You rotate through workouts on non-consecutive days, typically Monday/Wednesday/Friday, just like standard GZCLP.

Can I customize exercises in GZCLP Blacknoir?

Yes, the program includes exercise templates from Default, Modified, and Advanced GZCLP configurations. You can swap T2 and T3 exercises to match your equipment and goals while keeping the progression logic intact.

What should I run after GZCLP Blacknoir?

Once you can no longer make linear progress (adding weight each session), move to an intermediate GZCL program like The Rippler for strength or Jacked & Tan 2.0 for hypertrophy. Both use periodized progression instead of linear.

Program by blacknoir. TopSet is not affiliated with or endorsed by the program’s creator. Program names and trademarks belong to their owners. See the guide for original sources.

Make every set count.

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