What is Madcow 5×5?
Madcow 5×5 is the intermediate successor to beginner 5×5 programs. Instead of adding weight every session, you ramp across five sets to a top set and progress on a weekly basis, which keeps gains coming once daily increases stop working.
LiftLab calculates the ramp sets from your top-set target, rounds everything to your plates, and advances the load each week so the structure runs itself.
How LiftLab runs Madcow 5×5
- Weekly ramping sets calculated from your top set
- Weekly (not per-session) progression handled for you
- Plate-rounded across every ramp set
- Built-in rest timer
- Volume and PR tracking week to week
Who it's for
Intermediate lifters stalling on session-to-session linear progression who want a structured weekly ramp.
How to get Madcow 5×5 in LiftLab
- Install LiftLab freeLiftLab is an app for Android and iPhone. Download it from Google Play or the App Store — no account or sign-up needed.
- Open the Programs tab and browse the catalogThe online program library lives inside the app.
- Download the Madcow 5×5 planIt's added to your app as a fully editable copy.
- Enter your maxes or starting weightsSet the rounding increment per exercise so weights land on real plates.
- TrainLog sets with the rest timer running; your progression, history, and PRs update automatically.
Madcow 5×5 FAQ
Do I need the LiftLab app to run Madcow 5×5?
Yes. LiftLab is a free app for Android and iPhone. Install it from Google Play or the App Store and download the Madcow 5×5 plan from the in-app catalog.
Does it calculate the ramp sets?
Yes. LiftLab builds the full ramp from your top-set target and rounds each set to the plates you own.
Is it free?
Yes — free app, free plan, no account required.
Core tracking and program building are free without an account. Optional Premium adds cloud sync, progress photos, reports and longer progress views. Compare free and Premium.