Pushing Strength from level 60 all the way to 99 in Old School RuneScape can feel like a long grind if you rely only on static training spots such as the Nightmare Zone. One of the most engaging-and profitable-alternatives is to train Strength through Slayer. Slayer tasks naturally funnel players toward monsters with high hitpoints, frequent combat, and rewarding loot tables, making them ideal targets for sustained melee experience.

In this guide, we'll break down some of the most effective Slayer creatures for Strength training, discuss why Slayer is such a powerful complementary skill for melee progression, and offer tips on getting the most out of your training hours.

Slayer gives structure and purpose to your combat grind. Instead of hitting the same monster for hours, you rotate through new enemies, unlock unique drops, and progress toward valuable Slayer rewards. While doing so, every kill feeds Strength experience at a steady rate.

Choosing Slayer-based Strength training also means:

High-hitpoint monsters → more XP per kill

Consistent loot → replenishes supplies and builds your bank

Combat variety → avoids the burnout of static training spots

Access to late-game monsters → stronger XP rates as your Slayer level rises

From 60 to 99 Strength, Slayer turns the grind into an adventure instead of a chore.

Top Slayer Tasks for Strength Training

Below are some of the best monsters to prioritize-either by blocking undesired tasks so these appear more often or by actively requesting them with Slayer points.

1.Aberrant Spectres

Aberrant Spectres are a fan favorite for mid-level melee training because:

Their high hitpoints provide solid Strength XP

Their accuracy is manageable when protected properly

They drop valuable herbs and unique items like Spectre essences

They die quickly with strong melee weapons

Bring a nose peg or Slayer helmet and consider using a whip or a powerful 2H melee weapon to speed up kills. These tasks blend XP and OSRS gold profit well for players transitioning into late-game Slayer.

2. TzHaar Creatures (Fight Cave Alternative)

While not a Slayer task in the strict sense, training on TzHaar mobs-especially while doing attempts at the Fight Cave-can offer both entertainment and good XP.

The benefits include:

Continuous waves of enemies

Decent drops, including Tokkul for purchasing obsidian gear

A chance at the iconic Fire Cape

This option is ideal for players who want a challenge mixed into their Strength grind.

3. Nechryael

Once you reach them, Nechryael offer some of the best melee XP in the Slayer pool:

Massive hitpoint pools

Frequent drops of alchable rune items

Ability to barrage summoned death spawns (if hybrid training)

With strong gear, they melt quickly, making them excellent for late-game Strength gains.

4. Gargoyles

Gargoyles (Slayer 75) are another high-tier option. They're notable for:

Impressive drop tables (including Granite Maul)

Fast kill speeds with maxed or near-maxed melee setups

Great XP due to their durability and high HP

Don't forget your rock hammer or you won't be able to finish them off.

5. Black Demons

Black Demons provide some of the highest XP per hour in Slayer due to their extremely high hitpoints. They're worth doing whether you train traditionally or with cannon support.

Non-Slayer Strength Options

If you want a break from Slayer, you can experiment with other melee-focused activities. Some niche quest lines, such as various Butcher-style challenges, provide bursts of combat XP-though not every quest accommodates pure melee, and suitable options become more limited over time.

Slayer remains the most consistent alternative, but the variety is always there for adventurous players.

Optimize Your Gear and Supplies

Maximizing XP per hour hinges on your setup. Aim for gear that increases Strength bonuses and improves kill times.

Recommended items include:

Abyssal Whip-unmatched speed and reliability

Bandos Armor-strong defensive and Strength bonuses

Dragon Defender-one of the strongest off-hand buy OSRS gold in the game

Fury / Torture amulet-depending on your budget

Tips to Boost XP Gains

1.Use Combat Prayers

Prayers like Piety, Incredible Reflexes, and Ultimate Strength dramatically improve kill speed and survivability.

2. Pick Tasks You Enjoy

Grinding is easier when you fight monsters you don't hate. Enjoyment keeps you consistent.

Reaching 99 Strength from level 60 is a long-term journey, but training through Slayer makes every hour more rewarding. Tasks like Gargoyles, Nechryaels, Aberrant Spectres, and Black Demons deliver a balanced mix of experience, profit, and combat variety.

Whether you stick strictly to Slayer or weave in alternative methods, your progress depends on strong gear, consistent effort, and smart task management. Master those, and 99 Strength becomes not just achievable-but genuinely enjoyable.