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 free from Google PlayLiftLab is an Android app. Download it from Google Play — 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 Android app. Install it from Google Play 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.