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Full Body Workout: Best Exercises for Strength and Growth

Full Body Workout: Best Exercises for Strength and Growth

Posted by Leonard Shemtob on Dec 26, 2024

Introduction

Full body workouts are the ultimate solution for building strength, increasing muscle size, and enhancing overall fitness. By targeting multiple muscle groups in each session, these workouts maximize efficiency and provide well-rounded results. 

This guide will walk you through the best exercises, techniques, and routines to create a powerful and balanced full-body workout plan.


Short Summary:

  • What is a Full Body Workout? Learn the fundamentals and benefits of training your entire body in one session.
  • Best Full Body Exercises: Discover compound movements like squats, deadlifts, and push-ups for optimal results.
  • Training Tips and Techniques: Master strategies like proper form, progressive overload, and workout timing.
  • Sample Routine: Follow a structured full-body workout plan tailored to your goals.
  • Supplements for Performance: Explore natural supplements to boost recovery, strength, and endurance.
  • Maximize Your Results: Power up your Full Body Workouts with the Best Natural Muscle Building Supplement!

What is a Full Body Workout?

A full body workout is a training approach that engages all major muscle groups in a single session. This method integrates compound movements like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses to maximize efficiency, making it ideal for building strength, burning calories, and improving overall fitness. 

Unlike split routines, which focus on specific body parts, full body workouts ensure that every muscle group gets trained regularly. This balance makes them an excellent choice for beginners seeking a strong foundation and advanced lifters aiming to maintain consistency.


Benefits of Full Body Workouts:

  • Efficiency: Work multiple muscle groups in less time, perfect for busy schedules.
  • Balance: Ensures proportional development by training all major muscles equally, reducing the risk of imbalances.
  • Increased Calorie Burn: Engages large muscle groups for higher energy expenditure, making it effective for weight management.
  • Improved Recovery: Allows more rest days between sessions compared to split routines, giving your body ample time to repair and grow.
  • Versatility: Adaptable for a variety of goals, including strength, hypertrophy, endurance, or general fitness.
  • Enhanced Core Stability: Many full body exercises inherently activate the core, improving stability and overall athleticism.
  • Functional Fitness: Builds practical strength that carries over to daily activities and sports performance.

By understanding the principles behind full body workouts, you can tailor your training to meet your specific goals while enjoying the benefits of a well-rounded routine.


Best Full Body Exercises for Strength and Growth

Full body exercises are the cornerstone of efficient and effective training. By incorporating compound movements that target multiple muscle groups, these exercises provide maximum results in minimal time. 

Whether your goal is strength, hypertrophy, or endurance, the following exercises will help you build a balanced, powerful physique while enhancing overall functionality.

1. Squats

  • Muscles Targeted: Quads, glutes, hamstrings, core.
  • Why It’s Effective: Squats are a foundational movement for lower body strength and overall stability.
  • Recommended Sets and Reps:
    • For Strength: 4 sets x 4-6 reps
    • For Hypertrophy: 4 sets x 8-12 reps
    • For Endurance: 3 sets x 12-15 reps

2. Deadlifts

  • Muscles Targeted: Hamstrings, glutes, lower back, traps.
  • Why It’s Effective: Deadlifts are a compound lift that strengthens the posterior chain and improves overall power.
  • Recommended Sets and Reps:
    • For Strength: 4 sets x 3-5 reps
    • For Hypertrophy: 3 sets x 6-8 reps
    • For Endurance: 3 sets x 10-12 reps

3. Bench Press

  • Muscles Targeted: Chest, triceps, deltoids.
  • Why It’s Effective: Builds upper body strength and improves pressing power.
  • Recommended Sets and Reps:
    • For Strength: 4 sets x 4-6 reps
    • For Hypertrophy: 4 sets x 8-12 reps
    • For Endurance: 3 sets x 12-15 reps

4. Pull-Ups

  • Muscles Targeted: Lats, biceps, upper back.
  • Why It’s Effective: Enhances back and arm strength while engaging the core.
  • Recommended Sets and Reps:
    • For Strength: 3 sets x 4-6 reps (add weight if needed)
    • For Hypertrophy: 3 sets x 8-12 reps
    • For Endurance: 3 sets x 12-15 reps (bodyweight)

5. Overhead Press

  • Muscles Targeted: Shoulders, triceps, upper chest.
  • Why It’s Effective: Strengthens shoulder stability and pressing power.
  • Recommended Sets and Reps:
    • For Strength: 4 sets x 4-6 reps
    • For Hypertrophy: 3 sets x 8-12 reps
    • For Endurance: 3 sets x 12-15 reps

6. Push-Ups

  • Muscles Targeted: Chest, triceps, core.
  • Why It’s Effective: A versatile bodyweight exercise that builds strength and endurance.
  • Recommended Sets and Reps:
    • For Strength: 3 sets x 10-15 reps (weighted if possible)
    • For Hypertrophy: 3 sets x 15-20 reps
    • For Endurance: 3 sets x 20-25 reps

Pro Tips for Full Body Training

To get the most out of your full body workouts, it’s essential to focus on both the fundamentals and the finer details of training. Proper planning and execution can significantly enhance your results, ensuring balanced development and continuous progress. 

These tips will help you maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of your training routine:

  • Focus on Compound Movements: Prioritize exercises that engage multiple muscle groups for maximum efficiency.
  • Master Proper Form: Avoid injuries by using correct technique for every lift.
  • Progressive Overload: Gradually increase weight, reps, or intensity to continue making progress.
  • Incorporate Rest Days: Allow at least 48 hours between full body sessions for recovery.
  • Balance Intensity and Volume: Adjust your workout based on your fitness level and goals.
  • Warm-Up and Cool-Down: Prepare your muscles with dynamic stretches and cool down with static stretches to enhance recovery.

Essential Full Body Workout Routines

Crafting an effective full body workout plan requires a balance of compound movements and proper programming to target all major muscle groups. 

These routines are designed to meet different fitness goals, whether you’re focusing on strength, hypertrophy, or endurance. Each plan ensures efficient use of time while delivering well-rounded results for your entire body.

Strength-Focused Full Body Routine

  • Squats: 4 sets x 4-6 reps
  • Deadlifts: 4 sets x 4-6 reps
  • Bench Press: 4 sets x 4-6 reps
  • Pull-Ups: 3 sets x 4-6 reps
  • Overhead Press: 3 sets x 4-6 reps

Hypertrophy-Focused Full Body Routine

  • Squats: 4 sets x 8-12 reps
  • Deadlifts: 3 sets x 6-8 reps
  • Incline Bench Press: 4 sets x 8-12 reps
  • Pull-Ups: 3 sets x 8-12 reps
  • Push-Ups: 3 sets x 15-20 reps

Endurance-Focused Full Body Routine

  • Bodyweight Squats: 4 sets x 15-20 reps
  • Romanian Deadlifts (Light Weight): 3 sets x 12-15 reps
  • Push-Ups: 3 sets x 20-25 reps
  • Pull-Ups: 3 sets x 12-15 reps
  • Overhead Dumbbell Press: 3 sets x 12-15 reps

Supplements for Performance and Recovery

Supplements can enhance your performance and recovery, helping you achieve better results from your full body workouts. Consider these options:

AnaFuse by Vital Alchemy

1. Anafuse by Vital Alchemy

Anafuse by Vital Alchemy is a revolutionary muscle-building supplement designed to maximize lean muscle growth, accelerate recovery, and enhance overall strength. With its powerful natural ingredients, Anafuse helps you push through plateaus and achieve your full potential, making it an essential addition to your full body workout regimen.

Key Ingredients:
Key Benefits:
  • Promotes lean muscle growth to support full body training goals
  • Enhances recovery for quicker turnaround between workouts
  • Reduces muscle fatigue during high-volume training
  • Boosts protein synthesis to optimize muscle repair
  • Improves endurance for demanding full body sessions
  • Supports strength gains for compound movements like squats and deadlifts
  • Aids in overcoming plateaus for consistent progress
  • Increases overall workout intensity and effectiveness

Wild Thing by Assault Labs

2. Wild Thing by Assault Labs

Wild Thing by Assault Labs is an explosive pre-workout formula designed to fuel your most intense sessions. Packed with energy-boosting ingredients and endurance-enhancing compounds, it ensures you perform at your peak during every full body workout. Whether you’re lifting heavy or pushing for higher reps, Wild Thing keeps you energized and focused.

Key Ingredients:
  • L-Citrulline Malate
  • Beta-Alanine
  • L-Taurine
  • L-Tyrosine
  • Choline Bitartrate
  • Creatine Anhydrous
  • Alpha-GPC
  • Agmatine Sulfate
  • L-Glutamine
  • L-Theanine
  • L-Norvaline
  • Theobromine
  • Vincamine
  • Huperzine A
  • Caffeine Blend (ZumXR™, Infinergy™, Caffeine Anhydrous)
Key Benefits:
  • Boosts workout energy for challenging full body sessions
  • Enhances endurance to complete high-rep routines
  • Improves focus and mental clarity for better form and performance
  • Supports increased blood flow for enhanced muscle pumps
  • Delays workout fatigue, allowing for longer training periods
  • Optimizes power output during compound lifts like deadlifts and squats
  • Improves nutrient delivery to working muscles
  • Increases training intensity for maximum results

GAT JetMass

3. Jetmass by GAT

Jetmass by GAT is a premium intra-workout / post-workout recovery supplement that combines advanced ingredients to optimize muscle repair and enhance strength. Ideal for replenishing nutrients after a demanding full body workout, it helps you recover faster and come back stronger for your next session.

Key Ingredients:
Key Benefits:
  • Enhances recovery for faster readiness between full body sessions
  • Supports strength and power gains for compound exercises
  • Fuels muscle repair after high-intensity training
  • Replenishes critical nutrients lost during demanding workouts
  • Improves endurance and hydration for prolonged sessions
  • Aids in reducing muscle soreness post-workout
  • Boosts energy restoration for heavy lifting days
  • Optimizes performance for consistent training progress

Bio-Gro by iSatori

4. Bio-Gro by iSatori

Bio-Gro by iSatori is a cutting-edge muscle-building supplement designed to accelerate recovery and amplify muscle protein synthesis. Its bio-active peptides provide the essential building blocks your body needs to repair and grow muscle after intense full body workouts, making it a valuable addition to any fitness regimen.

Key Ingredients:
  • Bio-Active Peptides from Colostrum
  • Growth Factors
  • Immunoglobulins
  • Lactoferrin
Key Benefits:
  • Speeds up recovery for demanding full body sessions
  • Enhances protein synthesis for optimal muscle repair
  • Reduces muscle soreness post-workout
  • Supports lean muscle growth for a balanced physique
  • Boosts workout endurance and performance
  • Improves nutrient absorption for better recovery
  • Promotes consistent strength gains
  • Provides essential support for muscle rebuilding and growth 

Suggested Use and Stacking Tips

  • Anafuse: Take 2 capsules twice daily to promote consistent muscle growth, reduce fatigue, and enhance overall recovery.
  • Wild Thing: Consume 30 minutes before your workout to maximize energy, focus, and endurance during full body sessions.
  • Jetmass: Take immediately post-workout to replenish nutrients, accelerate muscle repair, and boost recovery for your next session.
  • Bio-Gro: Mix 2 to 3 scoops into your post-workout shake or any soft food or beverage of your choice to enhance protein synthesis and support muscle recovery.

Additional Tips:

  • Stay hydrated throughout your day to enhance nutrient absorption and performance.
  • Combine supplements with a protein-rich diet and balanced macronutrient intake to fuel recovery and growth.
  • Track your workout progress and adjust your supplement usage to align with your specific fitness goals.
  • Stay hydrated throughout your workout.
  • Pair supplements with a balanced diet rich in protein and carbs.
  • Track your progress to ensure continuous improvement.

To Wrap Things Up

Full body workouts are one of the most efficient ways to build strength, improve endurance, and develop a well-balanced physique. With the right combination of exercises, proper techniques, and smart supplementation, you can achieve your fitness goals faster and more effectively. Consistency is key—stick to your plan, push yourself, and embrace the challenge.

Now is the time to take your fitness to the next level!

Fuel your progress with the best supplements to complement your full body workout routines and start transforming your workouts today!


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many times per week should I do a full body workout?
A: 2-3 sessions per week is ideal, with at least 48 hours of rest between sessions.

Q: Are full body workouts better than split routines?
A: Full body workouts are excellent for beginners and those with limited training time, while split routines are better for advanced lifters focusing on specific muscle groups.

Q: Can I build muscle with full body workouts?
A: Yes, full body workouts are highly effective for building muscle when paired with proper nutrition, supplementation, and progressive overload.

Q: What’s the best way to warm up for a full body workout?
A: Perform dynamic stretches and light sets of compound lifts to activate your muscles.

Q: Should I use the same exercises every session?
A: It’s beneficial to rotate exercises periodically to target muscles from different angles and avoid plateaus.


References:

  • Ramos-Campo, D. J., Benito-Peinado, P. J., Andreu-Caravaca, L., Rojo-Tirado, M. A., & Rubio-Arias, J. Á. (2024). Efficacy of Split Versus Full-Body Resistance Training on Strength and Muscle Growth: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis. Journal of strength and conditioning research, 38(7), 1330–1340.
  • Evangelista, A. L., Braz, T. V., La Scala Teixeira, C. V., Rica, R. L., Alonso, A. C., Barbosa, W. A., Reis, V. M., Baker, J. S., Schoenfeld, B. J., Bocalini, D. S., & Greve, J. M. D. (2021). Split or full-body workout routine: which is best to increase muscle strength and hypertrophy?. Einstein (Sao Paulo, Brazil), 19, eAO5781.
  • Pedersen, H., Fimland, M. S., Schoenfeld, B. J., Iversen, V. M., Cumming, K. T., Jensen, S., Saeterbakken, A. H., & Andersen, V. (2022). A randomized trial on the efficacy of split-body versus full-body resistance training in non-resistance trained women. BMC sports science, medicine & rehabilitation, 14(1), 87.
  • Carneiro, M. A. S., Nunes, P. R. P., Souza, M. V. C., Assumpção, C. O., & Orsatti, F. L. (2024). Full-body resistance training promotes greater fat mass loss than a split-body routine in well-trained males: A randomized trial. European journal of sport science, 24(6), 846–854.

Written and Sponsored by Leonard Shemtob

Leonard Shemtob is President of Strong Supplements and a published author. Leonard has been in the supplement space for over 20 years, specializing in fitness supplements and nutrition. Leonard appears on many podcasts, written over 100 articles about supplements and has studied nutrition, supplementation and bodybuilding. 

Leonard's articles have been published in many top publications around the web. Leonard enjoys weight training, playing basketball and yoga, and also enjoys hiking. In his free time he studies and works on improving himself. For more detailed information, visit his official blog.