Strict Pull Ups (5 set: 6 reps)
Control should be shown across sets. Athlete should keep core engaged and avoid kipping. Band across rig is encouraged if strict reps are not possible and should be set at a height that allows for desired number of rep but no more. If using a band, make note of the hole that you are placing the back across the rig to keep consistency on resistance assistance across workouts. Rest 90 sec b/w sets.
Reverse Grip Lat Pulldown (4 sets: 10 reps)
*Build to a moderate weight, stay the same or build across sets
Focus: On a seated lat pull machine, position body so knees are locked under the leg pad and arms are extended overhead. With an underhand grip, focus on a strong contraction of the back/pulling back with the elbow not the hands. Bar should come right below the chin to the top of the chest. Slight lean back is acceptable to get shoulders in a down and back position. If you do not have access to a lat pulldown, attach a PVC pipe to a pullup bar via two bands and perform this movement. ALWAYS INSPECT BANDS FOR SIGNS OF POTENTIAL BREAKAGE BEFORE USING.
Bent Over Barbell Row (4 sets: 10 reps)
*Build to a moderate weight, stay the same or build across sets
*Build to a moderate weight, stay the same or build across sets
Focus: With a double overhand grip, deadlift bar to waist and then lower to a hang position (right above the knees) to start each set. Aim to pull with the elbows (rather than the hands) and bringing the bar to the hips (do not pull high towards the upper abdomen). Focus on getting a strong back contraction with each rep. Minimize the amount of kipping used between reps and feel the stretch in the lats/upper back when lowering the bar back to the hang position with each rep.
Supported Single Arm DB Row (4 sets: 10 reps (each side))
Build to a moderate weight, stay the same or build across sets.
Using the freehand to support the body against a bench or other elevated surface, stagger the feet, and lean forward to 45 to 80 degree angle of the torso. Athlete will pull with elbow. Focus on pulling DB to the hip/waist rather than pulling high towards upper abdomen.
Standing Alternating DB Curl + Single DB Double Head Curl (3 sets: 10 alternating (each side) + 10 double hea)
Focus: grasp a moderate weight dumbbell in each hand. Keep dumbbells slightly in front of the body at the bottom position to keep tension on the biceps throughout set. When curling, turn the arm thinking about getting the pinky finger close to the shoulder to maximize contraction with each rep. When finished with alternating reps, immediately grasp ONE dumbbell of a slightly heavier weight by each head and perform the remaining curls with both arms working at the same time.
Standing Alternating DB Hammer Curl (4 sets: 10 reps (each side))
Focus: Stay with a weight that will allow for control and minimal kipping of reps. Keep dumbbells slightly in front of the body at the bottom position to keep tension on the biceps throughout set. When curling, do not turn the arm as the DB is curled. DB can be curled by the side of the body or across the body (athlete’s preference).