You are a former professional athlete so I assume you would know better than me, an amateur with only a few months in the gym. However > A simple rule of thumb

You are a former professional athlete so I assume you would know better than me, an amateur with only a few months in the gym. However > A simple rule of thumb.... if you're not talking about periodization, you're working with the wrong person (and doing it wrong). From everything I have understood so far, a novice is better served with a linear progression program for as long as they can steadily increase the weights. Why would they think of periodization? I thought before you moved to periodic programs you needed to have built a strength base of 1x bench press, 1.5x squat and 2x deadlift. Is my understanding incorrect? Or are you targeting experienced lifters with your advice?