Recently got back into the gym and feel absolutely wiped after about 4 lifts. Lately I’ve been doing an A/B style routine where:
Workout A: Squat, bench, RDL, row.
Workout B: Deadlift, OHP, leg press, lat pulldown
Now I’m not asking for program critique, but I’m wondering if it’s okay to not do more accessories?
Absolutely. 4 movements in a workout is plenty, IMO. Depending on your rep/set scheme, you may be over doing it if you’re coming back from a long layoff.
Start tapering in some accessory work as you acclimate to your routine.
If you’re feeling completely wiped workout after workout, take a closer look at your volume and intensity. Too much of that can be a problem. Head over to Barbell Medicine and see what they have to say about session RPE (sRPE).
Personally I’ve worked out for years doing primarily the big 4, and have gotten good results. Occasionally id do assistance work but not usually. The only thing that’s noticeable are my arms and back are a little lacking in definition imo, but not severely. Id say you should be fine, especially if you plan to pick it up more accessory work later on.
I also lift on the heavier side of my %ORM for strength though.
It’s a fine routine until you notice it isn’t. I did the Stronglifts 5x5 for a long time until I started noticing weakness is certain muscles. Then I started targeting and expanding.