---
title: "Deload First Cycle or Last Cycle"
description: "Schedule lighter training cycles to manage fatigue and recovery."
url: https://help.macrofactorapp.com/en/articles/297-deload-first-cycle-or-last-cycle
collection: "Programs"
updated: 2026-10-29
language: en
---

# Deload First Cycle or Last Cycle

Schedule lighter training cycles to manage fatigue and recovery.

Deloads reduce training stress by temporarily lowering intensity or volume. Some people use a deload at the start of a training block to ease into new workloads and limit soreness. Others prefer a deload at the end of a block to promote recovery and feel fresher going into the next phase.

1.  Go to the **Workout** tab.
    
2.  Tap your active program.
    
3.  Tap the **program settings icon** in the top-right corner.
    
4.  Scroll down to **Deload** and tap **Edit**.
    
5.  Select one of the following options:
    

**None:** Train continuously without scheduled reductions in intensity or volume.

**First Cycle:** Start each training block with a lower-intensity cycle to ease into new workloads and reduce soreness.

**Last Cycle**: Finish each training block with a lighter cycle to promote recovery and readiness for the next phase.

6.  Tap the **X** to return to your workout program and save your selection.
    

## Read next:

Now that you’ve learned about deloading your first cycle or last cycle, you might enjoy one of these articles next:

[Change Number of Cycles in a Program](https://help.macrofactorapp.com/en/articles/302-change-number-of-cycles-in-a-program.md)  
[Understanding Smart Progressions](https://help.macrofactorapp.com/en/articles/305-understanding-and-using-smart-progressions.md)  
[Viewing Exercise Performance Over Time](https://help.macrofactorapp.com/en/articles/344-viewing-exercise-performance-over-time.md)