Workout plan: how to make one + a beginner example

A good workout plan is built around strength training 3–5 times a week, focused on compound exercises (squat, deadlift, presses, rows, pull-ups) and on progressive overload — gradually adding weight or reps week over week. Beginners progress best on full-body 3×/week; advanced lifters move to splits (push/pull/legs or upper/lower). Keep 3–4 working sets per exercise in the 6–12 rep range. MicroPlan builds your split from the number of days you train and logs your sets with gentle progression — free.

Build your workout plan

How to make a workout plan in 5 steps

1

Decide how many days per week

Three days is enough for steady progress; 4–5 adds volume. Pick a number you can keep consistently.

2

Choose your split

Beginners: full-body 3×. Advanced: upper/lower (4×) or push/pull/legs (5–6×).

3

Focus on compound lifts

Squat, deadlift, bench press, overhead press, rows and pull-ups train the most muscle per exercise.

4

Set your sets and reps

Three to four working sets per exercise, 6–12 reps for muscle growth; leave 1–2 reps in reserve.

5

Progressive overload + log it

Each week aim for a little more weight or reps. Logging your sets is how you know you're progressing.

Need nutrition alongside training? See how to make a meal plan.

Example workout plan (full-body, 3×/week)

Train e.g. Monday / Wednesday / Friday, with a rest day between. Adjust exercises to your equipment and level.

Day A

  • Squat — 4×6–10
  • Bench press — 4×6–10
  • Row (barbell/cable) — 4×8–12
  • Overhead press — 3×8–12
  • Plank — 3×30–60 s

Day B

  • Romanian deadlift — 4×6–10
  • Pull-ups / lat pulldown — 4×6–12
  • Dumbbell press — 3×8–12
  • Lunges — 3×10–12
  • Abs — 3×12–15

Day C

  • Squat or leg press — 4×8–12
  • Incline press — 4×8–12
  • Row — 4×8–12
  • Biceps curl — 3×10–12
  • Triceps — 3×10–12

Frequently asked questions

How many times a week should I train?

Three strength sessions a week is enough for progress. Four to five adds volume, but consistency and progression matter more than the number of days.

What's the best workout plan for beginners?

Full-body training three times a week with compound lifts — you train each muscle several times and learn technique fastest.

Full-body or a split?

Beginners: full-body. As you progress and add days, move to an upper/lower or push/pull/legs split.

How many sets and reps?

Three to four working sets per exercise, 6–12 reps for hypertrophy, leaving 1–2 reps in reserve (RIR).

What is progressive overload?

Gradually increasing weight, reps or sets over time — the main driver of muscle and strength gains.

Is the workout plan free?

Yes. MicroPlan builds a training plan from your number of days and logs your working sets — free and no account.

Get your workout plan

MicroPlan builds a split from your number of days and logs your sets with gentle progression — free, no account.

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