You’ve built stability, developed endurance, and grown muscle, now it’s time to maximize it all. Phase 4 of NASM’s Optimum Performance Training (OPT™) Model is focused on building maximal strength: pure, foundational force that fuels athletic performance, injury prevention, and everyday power. This phase is key for clients ready to push their physical limits and develop strength that sticks. In this blog, we’ll explore how Phase 4 works, who it’s for, and how to use it with real clients.
What Is the NASM OPT™ Model?
The NASM OPT™ Model is a science-based training system built around five phases: Stabilization Endurance, Strength Endurance, Hypertrophy, Maximal Strength, and Power. Each phase serves a different purpose, helping clients progress safely and effectively. Phase 4—Maximal Strength—is designed to improve the body's ability to exert force, which supports every other phase of training.
Why the Max Strength Phase Matters?
This phase helps clients generate more force, improve lifting capacity, and support better neuromuscular control. It's not just for powerlifters or athletes, it benefits anyone who wants to feel more powerful and confident in their movement.
Benefits include:
- Better muscle recruitment and activation
- Increased bone density
- Stronger joints and connective tissues
- Enhanced athletic performance
Phase 4 Explained: Maximal Strength Training Max strength training uses heavy weights, low reps, and longer rest periods to stimulate the nervous system and develop total-body strength. Workouts often involve compound lifts like squats, deadlifts, and presses.
Goals of this phase:
- Maximize force production
- Improve neural efficiency
- Strengthen prime movers under heavy load
- Prepare for explosive movements in Phase 5
How Phase 4 Elevates Client Results?
Whether it’s helping a parent carry their toddler with ease or training a client to deadlift their body weight, this phase delivers practical strength. It builds confidence, improves technique, and creates the resilience needed for long-term progress.
Clients love this phase because:
- They feel stronger and more empowered
- Lifts become more efficient and powerful
- It’s a clear benchmark of progress
Common Exercises in Max Strength Programs Workouts include heavy compound lifts with controlled tempo and lots of rest:
- Barbell back squat
- Deadlift (conventional or trap bar)
- Barbell bench press
- Overhead barbell press
- Pull-up with weighted vest
Training Variables for Phase 4: How It Works
- Reps: 1–5Sets: 4–6 per exercise
- Tempo: Explosive concentric, controlled eccentric
- Rest: 2–5 minutes
- Frequency: 2–4x per week depending on recovery
Why Canadian Trainers Should Use the OPT™ Model?
In Canada’s diverse fitness landscape, the OPT™ Model helps you deliver thoughtful, progressive programming to every client. Phase 4 builds trust by showing measurable strength improvements. Plus, it preps clients for the high-level power work coming next in Phase 5.
NASM + NPTA: Science-Backed Strength At NPTA, we help you bring NASM’s trusted training model to life. Through our Certified Personal Trainer program, you’ll master all five phases of the OPT™ Model, including Phase 4. You’ll also get real-world coaching tools to deliver results safely and confidently.
Want to go deeper? Level up with Performance Enhancement Specialization to design advanced programs for strength and speed.
Build Your Career with the NASM CPT Certification NPTA’s NASM CPT helps you go beyond the basics. Learn how to assess, program, and progress your clients using proven methods backed by research. With flexible online learning and Canadian-focused support, your success starts here.
Ready to Coach Smarter? Get Certified with NPTA Start strong with NPTA and join a growing network of confident, qualified coaches. Whether you're new or experienced, we help you deliver powerful, personalized training that transforms lives. Explore our certifications and take the first step today.
READ MORE BLOGS:
- Phase 1: Stabilization Endurance
- Phase 2: Strength Endurance
- Phase 3: Hypertrophy Training
- How to Become a Certified Personal Trainer
- Everything You Need to Know Before Choosing the Best Personal Training Certification in Canada
