Upper Body
A comprehensive upper body workout targeting the chest, shoulders, arms, and back using barbell movements.
Instructions
- Warm up with light cardio and dynamic stretching.
- Begin with a compound pushing movement (e.g., bench press) for 4 sets of 6-8 reps.
- Follow with a compound pulling movement (e.g., barbell row) for 4 sets of 6-8 reps.
- Perform isolation exercises for shoulders, biceps, and triceps for 3 sets of 8-12 reps each.
- Include back or lat-focused exercises for 3 sets of 8-10 reps.
- Finish with 2-3 sets of 12-15 rep isolation work for smaller muscle groups.
Tips
- Rest 2-3 minutes between heavy compound sets.
- Use controlled tempos with 2-second pauses at peak contraction for isolation exercises.
- Maintain proper form over heavy weight to maximize gains and minimize injury risk.
- Include adequate warm-up sets before working weight.
- Prioritize compound movements early in your session when strength is highest.
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Reps | Weight | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Male | Female | |||
| Gain strength | 3 | 15 reps | 22.5 kg | 12.5 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 18 reps | 20 kg | 10 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 25 reps | 15 kg | 7.5 kg |