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Classic 5×5 Full Body

Beginner3 days/weekBarbell

The time-tested strength template: two alternating full-body workouts of five sets of five on the big barbell lifts, three days per week. Minimal moving parts, maximum barbell practice.

Who it's for

Lifters focused on building base strength with barbell fundamentals.

How to run it

Alternate workouts A and B across three weekly sessions (A-B-A, then B-A-B). Add weight every session for as long as your form holds.

Workout A1.5× per week

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ExerciseSetsReps
Barbell Squat55
Barbell Bench Press55
Barbell Row55

Workout B1.5× per week

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ExerciseSetsReps
Barbell Squat55
Overhead Press55
Barbell Deadlift15

Weekly muscle coverage

Weighted sets per muscle group per week, computed with our coverage engine.

Chest
7.5
Shoulders
6.3
Back
5.9
Biceps
3.8
Triceps
7.5
Core
6.4
Quads
15.8
Hams
5.3
Glutes
16.5
Calves
0

True to the originals, this program has no direct calf or arm isolation. Add calf raises or curls at the end of a session if you want them.

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Origin: In the tradition of 5×5 programs dating back to Reg Park in the 1950s.