This program is built for lifters who want to maximize both muscle size and raw strength — without sacrificing conditioning. Whether you're chasing a bigger bench, thicker legs, or a more powerful physique overall, this split delivers results through strategic progression and time-tested training principles.
🧠 Program Philosophy
The “Size & Strength Bodybuilding Split” is designed to bridge the gap between hypertrophy and strength. You’ll cycle through two distinct phases:
Weeks 1–4: Hypertrophy Focus
Core lifts (bench press, squat, shoulder press, incline bench, deadlift) performed in the 6–8 rep range
Accessory lifts target lagging muscle groups and symmetry
Emphasis on volume and muscle fatigue to stimulate growth
Weeks 5–8: Strength Focus
Core lifts transition to a 5x5 scheme to build maximal strength
Accessory lifts remain in the 6–8 rep range to maintain hypertrophy stimulus
Lower overall volume, higher intensity, and progressive overload
📅 Weekly Layout
Day 1: Upper Body Push (Chest, Shoulders, Triceps) + 30 min LISS Cardio
Day 2: Lower Body (Quads, Hamstrings, Glutes) + 30 min LISS Cardio
Day 3: Active Recovery / Cardio Focus (Low-Impact Conditioning)
Day 4: Upper Body Pull (Back, Biceps) + 30 min LISS Cardio
Day 5: Full Body Strength (Heavy Compound Work) + 30 min LISS Cardio
Days 6–7: Rest or Optional Mobility/Stretching
🏃♂️ Conditioning Strategy
Each lift day includes 30 minutes of low-intensity steady-state (LISS) cardio, carefully programmed to support cardiovascular health and recovery without interfering with muscle growth or strength gains. The mid-week cardio day allows for active recovery and keeps your metabolism primed.
🔩 Equipment & Requirements
Barbell, dumbbells, squat rack, bench, cable machine, and basic gym access
Ideal for intermediate to advanced lifters who understand proper form and recovery
TrainHeroic app access for tracking progress, logging workouts, and staying accountable
🚀 What You’ll Gain
Noticeable increases in muscle mass and definition
Improved strength across all major lifts
Enhanced work capacity and recovery
A deeper understanding of how to train with purpose and intensity
A
Bench Press
4 x 6
B
Machine Chest Fly
4 x 8
C
Barbell Shoulder Press
4 x 6
D
Single Dumbbell High Pull
3 x 8
E1
Cable Lateral Raise
3 x 10
E2
EZ Bar Skull Crusher
3 x 8
F1
Machine Dip
4 x 8
F2
DB Shrug
4 x 8
G1
Reverse Crunch
4 x 15
G2
Hyperextension
4 x 15
H
Standing Palms Up Barbell Behind the Back Wrist Curl
4 x 15
I
Treadmill Work
1 x 30:00
A
Machine Lat Pulldown
4 x 6
B
Straight Arm Pulldown
3 x 8
C
1-Arm DB Row
4 x 6
D1
Preacher Curl
3 x 8
D2
Romanian Deadlift with DB
E1
Seated Incline DB Curls
3 x 8
E2
Goblet Squats
3 x 15
F1
Barbell Reverse Grip Curl
3 x 10
F2
DB Lunge
3 x 8
G1
Seated Leg Curl
3 x 8
G2
Leg Extension
3 x 8
H
Oblique Crunch
I
Treadmill Work
1 x 30:00
A
Treadmill Work
1 x 60:00
A
Bench Press
4 x 6
B
Machine Chest Fly
4 x 8
C
Barbell Shoulder Press
4 x 6
D
Single Dumbbell High Pull
3 x 8
E1
Cable Lateral Raise
3 x 10
E2
EZ Bar Skull Crusher
3 x 8
F1
Machine Dip
4 x 8
F2
DB Shrug
4 x 8
G1
Reverse Crunch
4 x 15
G2
Hyperextension
4 x 15
H
Standing Palms Up Barbell Behind the Back Wrist Curl
4 x 15
I
Treadmill Work
1 x 30:00
A
Machine Lat Pulldown
4 x 6
B
Straight Arm Pulldown
3 x 8
C
1-Arm DB Row
4 x 6
D1
Preacher Curl
3 x 8
D2
Romanian Deadlift with DB
E1
Seated Incline DB Curls
3 x 8
E2
Goblet Squats
3 x 15
F1
Barbell Reverse Grip Curl
3 x 10
F2
DB Lunge
3 x 8
G1
Seated Leg Curl
3 x 8
G2
Leg Extension
3 x 8
H
Oblique Crunch
I
Treadmill Work
1 x 30:00