Workout Summary
- Main GoalBuild Muscle
- Workout TypeSplit
- Training LevelIntermediate
- Program Duration12 weeks
- Days Per Week4
- Time Per Workout60 minutes
- Equipment RequiredBarbell, Cables, Dumbbells, EZ Bar, Machines
- Target Gender Male & Female
- Recommended Supps
- Workout PDF Download Workout
Workout Description
Back in 1986 my mentor, Dr. Mike, taught me to train in multiple rep ranges. I was young, trusting and did what he said. After all, Dr. Mike was a big natural bodybuilder. And he was a professor. It just made sense to do what he said. Over the next 3 years I used his style of training and made amazing progress. I continued to use Dr Mike's training philosophies for nearly a decade, and they never let me down. This style of lifting made me big and strong. What more could you ask for?
This workout is based on the Dr. Mike system. I have tweaked it a bit over the years. I hope that you find some use for it, and if you do end up running it for 10+ years...well, feel free to make changes. No system is perfect unless you adapt it to your individual needs.
Dr. Mike was ahead of his time. He approached training routine design from a scientific standpoint in an era where everything was Weider Principles this and Weider Principles that. Simply stated, muscles tend to respond differently to different rep ranges. Dr. Mike believed that by training in all reasonable rep ranges, you could maximize muscle hypertrophy while boosting strength. This approach worked for me, and I hope it works for you.
For more information on the impact of rep ranges on hypertrophy, please read the article Hypertrophy and Muscle Growth.
For more information on the Power Muscle Burn training approach, please read:
- Power Muscle Burn 5 Day Powerbuilding Split. This 5 day split is for intermediate lifters who are hungry for rapid size and strength gains.
- Power Muscle Burn Bulking Diet And Supplement Plan. Ready to grow? It's time to get your bulk on! Maximize Power Muscle Burn training by following this diet and supplementation plan.
- Power Muscle Burn 3 Day Workout Split. Finally! A three day workout split variation for the wildly popular Power, Muscle, Burn muscle building system.
The Power Muscle Burn System
My Power Muscle Burn training system will help you build muscle and strength by focusing on three different training approaches, all used in the same workout. You will be performing the following types of sets for each muscle group:
- Power. You will perform power sets to lead off the workout. Power sets are performed in the 3 to 5 rep range. Use the same weight for each of the sets. When you can perform 5 reps for all power sets, move up in weight. Major muscle groups will perform 2-4 power sets per workout, and minor muscle groups will perform 2 power sets per workout. Please note that for some minor muscle groups, power sets do not make sense, or they are not realistic. For example, it is difficult to perform extremely heavy resistance abdominal sets.
- Muscle. Muscle sets are performed in the 6 to 12 rep range. Use the same weight for each of the sets. When you hit the upper rep limit of 12 for all muscle sets, move up in weight. Major muscle groups will perform 4-6 total muscle sets in each workout, using 2 different exercises. Minor muscle groups will perform 2-4 total muscle sets in each workout, using 1 to 2 exercises. You can also perform a single exercise for 3 sets.
- Burn. You will perform 1-2 burn sets for each muscle group - generally using isolation movements. Pick a weight that allows you to hit 15 to 20 reps, and then perform 40 total reps. How? Do as many reps as possible, then take a slight rest and perform more reps. Rest only long enough to regain the energy and willpower to perform 1 to 3 more reps. Keep pushing yourself through the pain until you hit 40 total reps. When you can hit 25+ reps from the start without stopping, add weight. Major muscle groups will utilize 2 burn sets, minor muscle groups will use 1-2 burn sets.
Power Muscle Burn Notes
- Failure - I do not recommend training to failure. Try to perform each set until you feel like you may fail on the next rep, then stop. It's ok if you occasionally fail on a set, but do not purposely try to train to failure on every set.
- Progression - You must have the goal of progressing on every set of every workout. Sets performed with a half-hearted effort are wasted. If you lack energy or are pressed for time, it's better to perform fewer quality sets then it is to waste sets.
- Splits - You can split this system numerous ways, but remember that training more then 4 days per week is generally not beneficial for natural bodybuilders. What is the best split? The one you will use and stick with.
- Small Tweaks - What if I don't like training in the 6 to 12 rep range, and want to train in the 6 to 10 rep range? Then train in the 6 to 10 rep range. What if I don't like training in the 3 to 5 rep range? Then train in the 4 to 6 rep range. 40 burn reps are too difficult!? Then aim for 30 burn reps. Note: small tweaks are ok, as long as you are using the core mechanisms of this program. Don't obsess about the details - obsess about moving weight and getting bigger!
- Alternating Exercises - It is not a bad idea to alternate exercises every other week. You can't possibly fit every exercise into every workout. For example: for muscle sets you could hit dumbbell bench presses one week and chest dips the next week.
- Total Sets - It is better to start with the minimal amount of sets, and build in to this routine by adding sets if you find you need more work.
- Calves - Please note that there are no power sets for calves. I am not convinced that calves respond effectively to lower rep training.
- Quads - If you love pain, you can do a single 20 rep set of squats for your quad burn work.
4 Day Power Muscle Burn Split
The 4 Day Power Muscle Burn split:
- Day 1 - Chest and Biceps
- Day 2 - OFF
- Day 3 - Quads and Hamstrings
- Day 4 - Shoulders and Triceps
- Day 5 - OFF
- Day 6 - Back, Calves and Abs
- Day 7 - OFF
Note: This is a sample template. Feel free to "swap" in any appropriate (and favorite) exercises.
Day 1 - Chest and Biceps
Exercise | Sets | Reps |
---|---|---|
Bench Press - Power | 4 | 3 to 5 |
Incline Bench Press - Muscle | 2-3 | 6 to 12 |
Dumbbell Bench Press - Muscle | 2-3 | 6 to 12 |
Dumbbell Flys - Burn | 2 | 40 |
Pinwheel Curls - Power | 2 | 3 to 5 |
Standing Barbell Curl - Muscle | 2-3 | 6 to 12 |
Cable Preacher Curl - Burn | 1-2 | 40 |
Day 3 - Quads and Hamstrings
Exercise | Sets | Reps |
---|---|---|
Squat - Power | 4 | 3 to 5 |
Leg Press - Muscle | 2-3 | 6 to 12 |
Front Squat - Muscle | 2-3 | 6 to 12 |
Leg Press - Burn | 2 | 40 |
Romanian Deadlift - Power | 2-4 | 3 to 5 |
Romanian Deadlift or Leg Curl - Muscle | 2-3 | 6 to 12 |
Leg Curl - Burn | 1 | 40 |
Day 4 - Shoulders and Triceps
Exercise | Sets | Reps |
---|---|---|
Seated Barbell Press - Power | 4 | 3 to 5 |
Seated Arnold Press - Muscle | 2-3 | 6 to 12 |
Barbell Front Raise - Muscle | 2-3 | 6 to 12 |
Dumbbell Lateral Raise - Burn | 2 | 40 |
Closegrip Bench Press - Power | 2 | 3 to 5 |
Seated French Press - Muscle | 2 | 6 to 12 |
EZ Bar Skullcrusher - Muscle | 2 | 6 to 12 |
Cable Tricep Extension - Burn | 1 | 40 |
Day 6 - Back, Calves, and Abs
Exercise | Sets | Reps |
---|---|---|
Deadlift - Power | 2-4 | 3 to 5 |
Barbell Rows - Muscle | 2-3 | 6 to 12 |
Lat Pull Down - Muscle | 2-3 | 6 to 12 |
Seated Cable Row - Burn | 2 | 40 |
Seated Calf Raise - Muscle | 2-3 | 10 to 15 |
45 Degree Calf Raise - Burn | 2 | 40 |
**Perform Ab work of choice*** |
3.3K Comments
Hi Steve, thanks for this program. I'm not sure if I have missed it or not, but what is the rest between set on this program. I'm about to start day 1 now, so I won't get your response before I start but I was thinking maybe 120 seconds for power, 90 seconds for muscle and 15 seconds like you hinted for burn? What do you think?
What's good, Gator? Steve didn't assign rest periods, but I like your suggestions and would suggest you go with them.
How can i incorporate T bar Row on back day since i wasnt to grow the thickness in the back & also how can i incorporate leg Extensions on my leg days
Replace seated burn with T-Bar and leg press BURN with leg extension. Hope this helps!
When I first started looking for a workout a few years back I chose this one because it made sense to me and I've just stuck with it. I'm not shredded or anything, but I've become much stronger and feel good. I noticed that this along with a lot of other workouts have time frames attached to them, ex this one is a 12-week program. I've been doing it for about 4 years (minus my periods of absence at the gym). Is there a benefit to switching routines frequently for a regular guy not trying to sculpt himself competitively? Or is that more for optimization between cutting and bulking, which I'm not really concerned with.
Hi Dale, different programs challenge you in different ways so you can improve your overall fitness, regardless of what your priorities are. I would suggest changing to something else for a while before going back to this. We have plenty of programs to choose from here.
https://www.muscleandstrength.com/articles/how-to-choose-your-next-train...
Can I do this Mon,Tue,Thu,Fri? This is the only way I can consistently get the works in.
Also I have always been told that we should train a muscle twice a week to grow. I've never tried once a week before.
Hi Andrew, your schedule suggestion would be fine.
I think you'll find that training once a week would be effective because of the extra recovery time and intensity of the work you are doing while training. Let us know how it works for you. Thanks for reading M&S!
For the leg workout there's two RDL's or leg curls. What exercises can i replace with either the second RDl or leg curl?
Do RDL for one, then leg curl for the other. If you can't do either option, let me know why and what equipment you have and I can offer replacement suggestions.
Power set RDls and muscles sets. Can i replace the muscle set with smith machine lunges or dumbell RDLs
Yes, you can make those changes.
Love this workout. Do it all the time. However, I’d like to mix it up. Is there anyway to do this as and upper/lower split, and if so, how would you propose the best way to go about that?
Hi, Cole. If it was me, I would mix up the exercises so you have upper and lower days. Compound movements are for power and muscle while isolation exercises would be for burn.
Is it possible to add cardio days without messing up my progression through this program? Maybe I’m over thinking it. Help please
You can add cardio, DeAndre. What do you usually do for cardio?
Interesting work out however I want to keep something between Monday-Friday. Is this possible?
Train on Monday and Tuesday, take Wednesday off, then train again Thursday and Friday. Weekends off. Hope this helps, Ed. Thanks for reading M&S!
Would this routine work well for someone in their early 50's who's in good shape with no joint pain?
Absolutely, JC! If you do it, let us know how it goes for you. Thanks for reading M&S!
I’m getting ready to start this program, really excited to get started with it. Just wondering if you have a substitute lift for deadlifts.
Why can't you do deadlifts, Andy? I want to make the best suggestion possible.
This is a wonderful program. My default go to. I love the combination of heavy sets and burn sets. I feel amazing after every workout.
For me results are measured by how consistently I can go to the gym for the year. So I might as well do something I love! And I love this program!!
Hello, I've been running this program for almost 3 and a half months now and I think progress is non existent at the moment.
Is it time to move on ? I do eat enough, sleep is good too.
It is time to move on, Alex, and this may help you choose that next step to take.
https://www.muscleandstrength.com/articles/how-to-choose-your-next-train...
Thanks a lot!!!
I put in a lot of hours at work during the week so I don't have much time to work out except for weekends. Can I move the workouts to something like:
Chest and Biceps on Saturday
Shoulders and Triceps on Sunday
Back, Calves and Abs on Tuesday
Quads and Hamstrings on Thursday or Friday?
It beats not doing anything at all, Jeff. Props for finding a way. Let us know how it goes for you.
Greetings Steve !, Could you please tell me how to warmup for power sets ? I am a bit of a beginner,do i need to work up to the desired weight ?
Hi, Bassem. Perform multiple light sets to focus on form and muscle activation. Also, keep moving in between sets so blood is flowing. After a few light sets, you should be ready to go. Hope this helps!
What kind of warmup should I do for power sets? I’ve been doing endless cycles of 5/3/1, and I’m thinking of changing it up. If all power sets are the same weight, how do you work up to that weight? My current TM’s are 160/205/350/390. What would would be a good starting point to transition, like 80-85%?
Hey Andrew, 80% would be what I choose to go with. Hope this helps.
Hey Steve!
I was wondering If we could add another day maybe? 3 days rest is too much for me.
We're always going to advocate for more rest, Alex. If you wanted to do cardio, that would be ok, but the rest is in there for a reason.
I kept reading and found the exact same title but under a five day routine .if that helps more .
This is an awesome workout. My first 8 months or so of lifting I was following a standard full body progression to get to a base level of strength. Afterwards I used this program and its been awesome. Great gains and I love that I can focus on each muscle group fully once per week. I feel like every body part is getting the attention it needs. Shout out to Steve - he has great YouTube content as well
I did this routine last year and it helped more than any other. After a couple other programs (and a couple injuries) I'm back to my favourite. I practice Brazilian Jiujitsu 2-4 times per week and like to run 1-2 times per week too. Should I adjust this program to compliment BJJ? If so what should I change?
You might want to stick to the minimum sets when you have ranges. For example, if it says 2-3 sets, do two. Other than that, go by how you feel and monitor those previous injuries. If you notice anything you don't like, stop and talk to a doctor.
Thanks for this Roger. I’m coming to the end of my 12 week stint - would it be wise to find another program? I’m really happy with the results I have and I want to gain even more strength and more muscle. I do love this program and wondering how important it is to switch things up. If you could help I’d massively appreciate it.
If it's working, keep on going, Lewis! Once you notice any stagnation, then come on back, and we'll try to find another one for ya.
Thanks for reading M&S!
I've been working this routine for a while and it's been by far my favorite. Only problem is that I've started to plateau and plateau hard. My heavy sets have completely stalled and a couple started to get worse. Any suggestions for the logical next step from this routine?
What are your goals now, Jack? Let me know, and I'll find a new routine here on M&S for you to run with.
Ready to move on from this workout. It was a blast. dropped about 30lbs and packed on some muscle. got the bench up to 225lb(questionably), Squat as high as 285lb, and 315lb for deadlifts. Power sets are not going as well anymore so I want to try a plan geared towards building muscle. Would this be a good one or is it too similar to what I'm already doing with PMB?
https://www.muscleandstrength.com/workouts/8-week-hypertrophy-workout
Cheers!
Hi, Walter. The program you chose is a great one. I say go for it!
I’ve been doing cardio on the rest days, but want to add a core routine to rest days as well. Is that okay?
Hi, Mike. Sure, you can do that as long as it isn't too intense. Got a program in mind or do you want a suggestion?
Here is a good ab workout for you, Mike.
https://www.muscleandstrength.com/workouts/core-destroyer-8-week-home-ab...
Cardio - 20-30 minutes 3-4 days a week would work. Do it in the morning or after the weights.
Would love some suggestions. Thanks. Also, how long should I do cardio for?
Hello
I want to work out 4 days a week and hit all the muscle groups at the end of the week. I fell over this program but the mixed up numbers 1,3,4,6 got me wondering if I have to do it 1(Monday) 3(wednesday) 4(thursday) 6(saturday) or can I just do it Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday?
Regards,
Christian
Hi, Christian! I don't suggest training all four days in a row. You can do it the first way you suggested, or you can do two in a row, take a day off, and then do the other two.