8 Basic Exercises For Beginner Bodybuilders

Want to bulk up but not sure where to start? If you’re new to the gym and want a proven routine to build muscle, burn fat and fix some common muscular imbalances, then we’ve got a great workout to get you started. It can be a little daunting when you turn up to the gym and everyone around you seems to know exactly what they’re doing. You may still be deciphering the difference between a pec deck machine and a bench press, or a kettlebell from a dumbbell – while all the gym enthusiasts around you are setting their weights and doing their exercises with absolute confidence.

The first thing to remember is that everyone started out where you are now. They’ve all been on the journey you’re embarking on, and most are more than willing to help you out if you’re ever unsure about something. Next thing to remember is that persistence pays. Don’t expect to grow muscles overnight – to build muscle mass safely, you need to take your time and be consistent with your training. That’s where this workout works well. It’s very effective in setting you on the path to real-world results, without overdoing it.

Our Beginner Bodybuilder Routine

This routine pairs two exercises at a time, working through the major muscle groups. You might want to mix it up with some cardio or other conditioning sessions, too. After this time, your muscles and your mind will be ready for something new. You want to ensure that you are selecting a weight that allows you to control the movement keeping perfect form, and feels like an 8-9 out of ten in terms of difficulty (with 10 being the hardest).

Pay particular attention to the tempo for each exercise, indicated by the four numerals listed next to the sets and reps. The first number is the eccentric (lowering) portion of the lift, the second is the time at the bottom of the movement. For example, a 32X0 would mean lowering slowly for three seconds, pause for two seconds, then explode up (represented by the X) with no rest at the top before repeating the movement.

It may take a few workouts to figure out the right weight for you. Most importantly, it's about ensuring you complete the reps within the set. It's best to start relatively light. If you find that you did the 12-15 reps a little too easy, up the weight a bit or take a mental note for next time and remember to start higher.

And remember, if you’re still working out what’s what in the gym, find a friendly instructor to show you how to use each machine safely.

Pair #1

Incline Machine Leg Press (Duck Foot Stance)

Reps: 3 x 12-15, 40X0, 30-60 secs rest

Top tip: Keep your heels in and toes turned out. Drive through your heels and make sure you don’t lock your knees at the top of the movement.

Pair #2

Incline Paused Dumbbell Bench Press (Neutral Grip)

Reps: 3 x 10-12, 31X0, 30-60 secs rest

Top tip: Keep your shoulder blades squeezed together and tucked into your back pocket at the bottom of the movement. There, pause to give your pecs a loaded stretch to improve your posture.

Lean Away Lat Pulldown (Close Neutral Grip)

Reps: 3 x 12-15, 31X0, 60-90 secs rest

Top tip: Pull away and back towards your torso, lifting your sternum to the ceiling.

Remember to pause at the bottom of each rep. This increases innervation, or the mind-muscle connection in the muscle being trained.

PAIR #3

STANDING DUMBBELL SHOULDER PRESS (NEUTRAL GRIP)

Reps: 3 x 10-12, 40X0, 30-60 secs rest

Top tip: Breathe out through your abs and squeeze your glutes to engage your core. Remember, when training the shoulders, keep your neck relaxed and your shoulder blades ‘in your back pocket’.

Seated Cable Rowing To Neck ( Pronated Grip)

Reps: 3 x 12-15, 30X1, 60-90 secs rest

Top tip: Lean back slightly (we call this outward intention) and focus on the squeeze between your shoulder blades. Relax your neck.