Upper Body

A comprehensive upper body workout targeting the chest, shoulders, arms, and back using barbell movements.

Instructions

  1. Warm up with light cardio and dynamic stretching.
  2. Begin with a compound pushing movement (e.g., bench press) for 4 sets of 6-8 reps.
  3. Follow with a compound pulling movement (e.g., barbell row) for 4 sets of 6-8 reps.
  4. Perform isolation exercises for shoulders, biceps, and triceps for 3 sets of 8-12 reps each.
  5. Include back or lat-focused exercises for 3 sets of 8-10 reps.
  6. 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