As you embark on your fitness journey and establish a regular gym routine, it becomes crucial to have a structured workout plan to ensure you’re targeting all your muscle groups and staying on track. In this fitness blog, we’ll guide you through finding the best workout split that suits your goals and fitness level.

Push Pull Legs

One of the most popular workout splits among fitness enthusiasts is the Push Pull Legs (PPL) split. As the name suggests, the split involves dividing your workouts into three main categories: push exercises that work your chest, shoulders, and triceps; pull exercises that target your back and biceps; and leg exercises that focus on your lower body.

The PPL split is a great option for both beginners and experienced lifters because it allows you to target each muscle group with more frequency while also providing ample time for rest and recovery. Additionally, since you’re working multiple muscle groups in each workout, you can save time by hitting all your major muscle groups in just three workouts per week.

One of the biggest advantages of the PPL split is its flexibility. You can adjust the volume and intensity of your workouts to fit your fitness level and goals. For instance, if you’re a beginner, you can start with lighter weights and fewer sets, while more advanced lifters can increase the intensity and volume of their workouts to keep challenging themselves.

push pull legs
arnold split

Arnold Split

Another popular workout split that has stood the test of time is the Arnold split, named after legendary bodybuilder Arnold Schwarzenegger. The Arnold split is a variation of the classic bodybuilding split, which involves training one or two muscle groups per workout.

The Arnold split is typically divided into two main workouts: the first focuses on chest, back, and legs, while the second focuses on shoulders, arms, and abs. This split is often paired with a rest day in between workouts to allow for proper recovery.

The Arnold split is ideal for intermediate to advanced lifters looking to build muscle mass and increase their strength. This split allows for more focused and intense training on each muscle group, as you’re able to target them with more volume and frequency. Additionally, the Arnold split emphasizes compound exercises, such as bench presses, squats, and deadlifts, which are effective for building overall strength and size.

One of the advantages of the Arnold split is that it offers a high degree of customization. You can adjust the number of sets and reps for each exercise, as well as the frequency of each workout, to suit your individual goals and fitness level. Additionally, the split allows you to prioritize your weaker muscle groups, so you can address any imbalances and build a more symmetrical physique.

Bro Split

The bro split, also known as the bodybuilder split, is a classic workout routine that involves training one muscle group per day, typically with a focus on hypertrophy (muscle growth). The bro split typically consists of five workouts per week, with each workout targeting a different muscle group: chest, back, legs, shoulders, and arms.

This workout split is popular among bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts who prioritize muscle growth and aesthetics. The bro split allows for maximum volume and intensity on each muscle group, as you’re able to target them with more exercises and sets than other workout splits. Additionally, the focus on isolation exercises, such as bicep curls and tricep extensions, can help create a more defined and aesthetic physique.

While the bro split can be effective for building muscle mass, it may not be the best option for everyone. For one, it may not provide enough frequency and volume for smaller muscle groups, such as the abs and calves, which may require more frequent training to see significant growth. Additionally, the five-day-per-week schedule may not be feasible for those with limited time or other commitments.

Despite these potential drawbacks, the bro split remains a popular and effective workout routine for those looking to build muscle mass and achieve an aesthetic physique. It’s important to note, however, that the effectiveness of any workout routine ultimately depends on your individual fitness level, goals, and consistency with training and nutrition.

bro split
full body workout

Upper Lower Split

The upper/lower split is a popular workout routine that involves training the upper body and lower body on separate days. This split is popular among both beginners and experienced lifters, as it allows for targeted training of specific muscle groups while also providing enough frequency and volume to see significant gains.

The upper/lower split typically involves four workouts per week, with two dedicated to upper body training and two dedicated to lower body training. Upper body workouts may include exercises such as bench press, shoulder press, rows, and chin-ups, while lower body workouts may include squats, deadlifts, lunges, and calf raises.

One of the key advantages of the upper/lower split is its balance and versatility. By training the upper and lower body on separate days, you can ensure that each muscle group gets adequate attention and recovery time. Additionally, the split allows for customization and variety in your training routine, as you can adjust the number of sets and reps for each exercise, as well as the exercises themselves, to suit your individual goals and preferences.

 

upper lower split

5-day Workout Split

The 5 day workout split is a popular and effective way to structure your workouts throughout the week. This split typically involves targeting specific muscle groups on different days, allowing for optimal recovery time and muscle growth. A typical 5 day split may include a day dedicated to chest and triceps, back and biceps, legs, shoulders, and a day for full body or cardio. This split allows for a balanced approach to strength and muscle development, as well as incorporating cardiovascular exercise for overall health and fitness. However, it’s important to remember that individual goals, fitness level, and preferences should also be taken into account when choosing a workout split. As with any workout routine, consistency and proper form are key to achieving results.

5 day workout split
Best workout split

Final Thoughts: Best Workout Split

In short, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of the best workout split. The optimal workout split depends on individual goals, fitness level, and personal preferences. The push-pull-legs split, Arnold split, bro split, full body workouts, and upper/lower split are all effective workout routines that can help you build strength, improve fitness, and achieve your desired physique.

When choosing a workout split, it’s important to consider factors such as frequency, volume, intensity, and variety. It’s also important to be consistent with your training and nutrition to see results. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced lifter, finding the workout split that works best for you can help you reach your fitness goals and maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.

To learn more, visit Train Fitness.

More Articles

The Best Full Body HIIT Workout You Can Do
The Best Full Body HIIT Workout You Can Do

Workouts involving full-body high-intensity interval training (HIIT) are a quick and easy approach to optimize your fitness progress. These workouts usually consist of a series of heart-pumping, intensive movements that target numerous muscle groups at once,...

The Fierce Flats
The Fierce Flats

With our "Fierce Flat’s" blog, you'll be able to dive into the realm of lifting like never before. Forget about flashy kicks and high-tech soles; there's a new look in town. This blog will break down Converse and Vans' game-changing styles for all of your lifting...