When it comes to effective training methods, full-body workouts don't get nearly the credit they deserve. While they're not as popular as the "bro splits" or the classic push/pull/legs splits, they are terrific for placing stress on the entire body while not placing too much strain on any particular area.
Full-body workouts have long been associated with home training, but you can do them in the gym, as well. It doesn't matter what your goal is, if you want to get bigger, stronger, or leaner, give these sessions a shot.
1. Power Training
This is similar to a classic meet except you do more reps. Use your first 2 sets on the Big 3 (squat, bench press, and deadlift) as warm-ups. Then go heavy and rest for 3 minutes between sets. The last three exercises are your assistant work to help you focus on the secondary muscles.
BodyFit
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What comes with BodyFit?
- Instructional Videos
Don't risk doing a workout improperly! Avoid injury and keep your form in check with in-depth instructional videos.
- How-to Images
View our enormous library of workout photos and see exactly how each exercise should be done before you give it a shot.
- Step-by-Step Instructions
Quickly read through our step-by-step directions to ensure you're doing each workout correctly the first time, every time.
2. Smash the Weights with Supersets
Supersets are very effective for anyone looking to add muscle and get great pumps. As long as the two movements you choose can be performed in close proximity to each other, it will save you time in the gym, as well. Rest for 1 minute after you complete each superset.
BodyFit
$6.99/month- 2,500+ expert-created single workouts
- 3,500+ how-to exercise videos
- Detailed workout instruction
- Step-by-step workout tips
- Training at gym or at home
- Access to Workout Plans
- Access to Bodyfit App
- Store Discounts
Already have a Bodybuilding.com account with BodyFit? Sign In
What comes with BodyFit?
- Instructional Videos
Don't risk doing a workout improperly! Avoid injury and keep your form in check with in-depth instructional videos.
- How-to Images
View our enormous library of workout photos and see exactly how each exercise should be done before you give it a shot.
- Step-by-Step Instructions
Quickly read through our step-by-step directions to ensure you're doing each workout correctly the first time, every time.
3. 30 Minutes or Less
Normally, you would need to train for longer than 30 minutes to get an effective workout, but many of us don't have much more than half an hour, and that beats zero. Rest no more than 45 seconds between sets on this program, and you should be out of the gym in time to get on with the rest of your day.
BodyFit
$6.99/month- 2,500+ expert-created single workouts
- 3,500+ how-to exercise videos
- Detailed workout instruction
- Step-by-step workout tips
- Training at gym or at home
- Access to Workout Plans
- Access to Bodyfit App
- Store Discounts
Already have a Bodybuilding.com account with BodyFit? Sign In
What comes with BodyFit?
- Instructional Videos
Don't risk doing a workout improperly! Avoid injury and keep your form in check with in-depth instructional videos.
- How-to Images
View our enormous library of workout photos and see exactly how each exercise should be done before you give it a shot.
- Step-by-Step Instructions
Quickly read through our step-by-step directions to ensure you're doing each workout correctly the first time, every time.
4. Full-Body Dumbbell Circuit
This is for anyone wanting to improve endurance or burn a lot of calories at one time. Circuits are sometimes frowned upon by gym management, but you should need only two pairs of dumbbells and a bench. One pair should be moderate and the other light. Perform all the exercises in a row, take a 3-minute break, and repeat.
BodyFit
$6.99/month- 2,500+ expert-created single workouts
- 3,500+ how-to exercise videos
- Detailed workout instruction
- Step-by-step workout tips
- Training at gym or at home
- Access to Workout Plans
- Access to Bodyfit App
- Store Discounts
Already have a Bodybuilding.com account with BodyFit? Sign In
What comes with BodyFit?
- Instructional Videos
Don't risk doing a workout improperly! Avoid injury and keep your form in check with in-depth instructional videos.
- How-to Images
View our enormous library of workout photos and see exactly how each exercise should be done before you give it a shot.
- Step-by-Step Instructions
Quickly read through our step-by-step directions to ensure you're doing each workout correctly the first time, every time.
5. Machine Master
Machines are effective for isolating muscle groups and maintaining constant tension throughout the range of motion. They also take less of a toll on the joints. Try to keep the rest to 60-90 seconds. Don't be afraid to go a little heavier on the last set of each exercise.
BodyFit
$6.99/month- 2,500+ expert-created single workouts
- 3,500+ how-to exercise videos
- Detailed workout instruction
- Step-by-step workout tips
- Training at gym or at home
- Access to Workout Plans
- Access to Bodyfit App
- Store Discounts
Already have a Bodybuilding.com account with BodyFit? Sign In
What comes with BodyFit?
- Instructional Videos
Don't risk doing a workout improperly! Avoid injury and keep your form in check with in-depth instructional videos.
- How-to Images
View our enormous library of workout photos and see exactly how each exercise should be done before you give it a shot.
- Step-by-Step Instructions
Quickly read through our step-by-step directions to ensure you're doing each workout correctly the first time, every time.