What is a workout complex?
Simply put, it’s a series of exercises performed using the same resistance, without rest or putting the weight down between exercises. You perform all prescribed reps of one exercise before moving onto the next.
Sounds tough, right?
Well that’s a guarantee, and the reason why this is for advanced folks ONLY.
With proper programming, these brutal circuits have the potential to strip fat off faster than any other protocol.
Why Workout Complexes Rock
Here are the top 3 reasons:
1. You only need one weighted resistance and a small space. The most effective barbell complexes only require an empty bar and small space, but you can use dumbbells or kettlebells too. You can do these circuits in a crowded gym, tiny NYC apartment, your backyard or a hotel gym.
2. You save tons of time compared to boring cardio. It almost sounds like an infomercial ad you see at 3am, “In just 10 minutes, twice a week you can burn fat and get shredded abs! And if you order in the next 2 minutes, you’ll get this amazing set of steak knives – absolutely free!”
But of course, it takes more than 20 minutes a week to build a defined body, and workout complexes don’t store neatly under your bed for three easy payments of $29.95. However, adding complexes to your favorite fat loss program will take your conditioning to the next level, without adding hours onto your session.
3. It sure beats the boredom and repetition of interval training and spinning. There is no overuse injury, no waiting time for equipment at the gym and will train your entire body in one big bang.
How To Build A Workout Complex
Creating an awesome workout complex is just like baking a cake.
The ingredients (exercises) need to be added in correct order for the mixture (entire circuit) to combine correctly; otherwise it will end in disaster.
If you go freestyle and don’t follow instructions, you’ll end up with a big mess and one awful tasting cake.
Here’s a quick advanced guide to building your own workout complexes, without looking like a goofball.
Step One: Pick Your Moves
Choose 3 + compound exercises that are varied and reflect big movement patterns.
– Squat
– Deadlift
– Lunge/Step
– Pull
– Push
– Total body power moves (cleans, snatch)
Isolated exercises, like bicep curls, tricep kickbacks, and wrist curls have no place in a time efficient workout complex. Don’t even think about it…
Step Two: Order of Exercises
Getting this step right is critical. I see all kinds of home-brew complex creations at big box gyms that are scary and ineffective. Remember, it’s not as simple as throwing all the ingredients together and mixing it up. Follow the recipe.
Here’s how you can avoid the common mistakes:
(a) Consider the Exercise Skill Level
You want to do the most difficult exercises first that require the highest skill level. Don’t think including more exercises with a higher skill level will make your complex more effective.
The main thing is your technique is solid for the exercises in the complex; otherwise you won’t get the desired metabolic effect and you’ll run the risk of getting injured. Unless you’ve been personally coached on Olympic lifting technique, skip the high skill moves.
(b) Non-Competing Order
Arrange the exercises in non-competing order, meaning you hit opposing muscle groups. The reason for this is simple: while you’re using one muscle group the other is resting.
Given that workout complexes use compound exercises, don’t waste time getting too picky here. Avoid repeating the same movement pattern for two back-to-back exercises.
(c) Exercise Flow
Another important factor ordering the exercises is making sure the transition and flow is spot on. For example, the transition from deadlift to push press is smooth and simple.
However, you wouldn’t go from back squat to floor press. Not only will you waste time in the transition, but you’ll kill the flow and look silly.
Step Three: Choose the Right Weight
Another super important step, that many folks screw up. This will make or break you. Literally.
Choose a weight that you can press overhead for 10-12 reps, as this movement is usually your weakness.
Remember, it’s not a strength stimulus. The idea is to create a metabolic conditioning effect. So if you go too heavy, it will all end in tears. If you’re unsure how heavy to lift, start lighter.
Step Four: Set the rest period and number of sets
Planning your rest breaks and controlling them with a timing device (GymBoss timer) is the next step.
Start with a 90 second break between sets. As you progress, shave 15 seconds off each rest.
Step Five: Where does a complex fit in your program?
The best choice:
(a) Off day metabolic conditioning: use a complex as your entire workout. All done in no more than 15-20 minutes.
Complexes are the workouts I love to hate. I love the sexy results. I love the feeling of accomplishment I get when you are finished. But they are TOUGH…
Don’t get me wrong. These are doable for ANYONE. I just want you to realize that not everyone appreciates them…
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