8 Raw Powerlifting Truths Learned from Westside Barbell
Westside is known as the strongest gym in the world. But walking in raw, you quickly learn what matters—and what doesn’t. Here are the key lessons I took away:
Quads Matter. You can’t build a squat on hamstrings alone. Eventually, you have to train your quads.
Big Lats = Big Bench. The guy with the wider back will out bench you. Train lats twice a week.
Practice the Pause. If you don’t use it, you lose it. Always practice the pause on your bench.
Discipline > Everything. Raw or equipped, you need to practice your discipline, adjust the method, and get proficient through reps.
Speed Isn’t Enough. Speed pulls help, but you also need volume—real reps on the deadlift.
Wide Builds Narrow. A wide stance carries over, but don’t skip narrow stance practice.
Don’t Forget the Pecs. Upper back strength is critical, but without pec training, your bench will stall.
At the end of the day, Westside taught me this: raw strength is built on balance, practice, and patience.
