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1c61b80731eb1184867efb8921465b4f694d41ac
WerkoutAPI/workout_research.md
Trey t 1c61b80731 workout generator audit: rules engine, structure rules, split patterns, injury UX, metadata cleanup 
- Add rules_engine.py with quantitative rules for all 8 workout types
- Add quality gate retry loop in generate_single_workout()
- Expand calibrate_structure_rules to all 120 combinations (8 types × 5 goals × 3 sections)
- Wire WeeklySplitPattern DB records into _pick_weekly_split()
- Enforce movement patterns from WorkoutStructureRule in exercise selection
- Add straight-set strength support (single main lift, 4-6 rounds)
- Add modality consistency check for duration-dominant workout types
- Add InjuryStep component to onboarding and preferences
- Add sibling exercise exclusion in regenerate and preview_day endpoints
- Display generator warnings on dashboard
- Expand fix_rep_durations, fix_exercise_flags, fix_movement_pattern_typo
- Add audit_exercise_data and check_rules_drift management commands
- Add Next.js frontend with dashboard, onboarding, preferences, history pages
- Add generator app with ML-powered workout generation pipeline
- 96 new tests across 7 test modules

Co-Authored-By: Claude Opus 4.6 <noreply@anthropic.com>
2026-02-22 20:07:40 -06:00

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# Workout Research - All 8 Workout Types
Comprehensive evidence-based research for the Werkout workout generator, covering exercise selection, rep ranges, rest periods, structure, intensity, progression, and common mistakes for each workout type.
---
## Table of Contents
1. [Functional Strength Training](#1-functional-strength-training)
2. [Traditional Strength Training](#2-traditional-strength-training)
3. [HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training)](#3-hiit-high-intensity-interval-training)
4. [Cross Training](#4-cross-training)
5. [Core Training](#5-core-training)
6. [Flexibility](#6-flexibility)
7. [Cardio](#7-cardio)
8. [Hypertrophy](#8-hypertrophy)
9. [DB Calibration Summary](#9-db-calibration-summary)
10. [Universal Rules Across All Types](#10-universal-rules-across-all-types)
---
## 1. Functional Strength Training
### Quick Reference
| Parameter | Recommended | Current DB |
|-----------|------------|------------|
| **Reps** | 3-6 heavy, 6-10 accessory | 8-15 |
| **Rounds/Sets** | 3-5 sets | 3-4 |
| **Rest** | 60-180s (varies by intensity) | 60s |
| **Duration Bias** | 0.1-0.2 (mostly rep-based) | 0.3 |
| **Superset Size** | 2-3 | 2-4 |
| **Intensity** | Medium-High | Medium |
### Exercise Selection Principles
**7 Fundamental Movement Patterns (all should be represented):**
1. **Squat** (vertical loading, knee-dominant) - Barbell Back Squat, Goblet Squat, Bulgarian Split Squat
2. **Hinge** (hip-dominant, posterior chain) - Deadlift, Romanian Deadlift, Kettlebell Swing
3. **Horizontal Push** - Bench Press, Push-Ups, Dumbbell Bench Press
4. **Horizontal Pull** - Barbell Row, Dumbbell Row, Inverted Row
5. **Vertical Push** - Overhead Press, Push Press, Pike Push-Ups
6. **Vertical Pull** - Pull-Ups, Chin-Ups, Lat Pulldown
7. **Carry** - Farmer's Carry, Suitcase Carry, Waiter's Walk
**Compound Movement Hierarchy:**
- Lower Body: Barbell Squat, Trap Bar Deadlift, Bulgarian Split Squat, Single-Leg RDL
- Upper Push: Bench Press, Overhead Press, Push-Ups
- Upper Pull: Pull-Ups, Barbell Rows, Dumbbell Rows
- Posterior Chain: Kettlebell Swings, Romanian Deadlifts, Good Mornings
- Anti-Rotation: Pallof Press, Dead Bugs, Bird Dogs
- Carries: Farmer's Carry, Suitcase Carry, Waiter's Walk, Bear Hug Carry
### Rep Ranges & Sets
| Phase | Reps | %1RM | Sets | Rest | Application |
|-------|------|------|------|------|-------------|
| Primary Strength | 3-6 | 85-95% | 3-5 | 3-5 min | Main compounds |
| Secondary Strength | 6-8 | 80-90% | 3-4 | 2-3 min | Secondary compounds |
| Strength-Hypertrophy | 8-10 | 75-85% | 3-4 | 90-120s | Accessories, single-limb |
| Endurance-Strength | 12-20 | 50-70% | 2-3 | 45-90s | Carries, circuits |
### Workout Structure (45-60 min)
```
A. General Warm-Up (5-8 min)
- Light cardio, dynamic stretching, mobility
B. Movement Preparation (5-8 min)
- Specific warm-up, ramp sets, CNS activation
C. Primary Compound Work (15-25 min)
- 1-2 main lifts, 3-5 sets x 3-6 reps, 3-5 min rest
D. Secondary Compound / Superset Block (15-20 min)
- 2 compounds, 3-4 sets x 6-8 reps, 2-3 min rest
E. Accessory/Carry Block (5-10 min)
- Carries, anti-rotation, unilateral work, 2-3 sets x 8-12 reps
F. Cool-Down (3-5 min)
```
### Superset Strategies
**Tier 1: Antagonist Pairs (Best)**
- Push/Pull: Bench Press + Bent-Over Row
- Hinge/Squat pattern contrast
- 20-25% faster than straight sets
**Tier 2: Complementary Pairs**
- Upper body push + lower body pull
- 10-15% faster than straight sets
**Tier 3: Circuits (3+ movements)**
- Full-body for time-constrained sessions
- Lighter loads, 3-4 rounds, 45-60s rest between movements
### Weekly Volume Distribution
| Pattern | Sets/Week | % of Volume | Freq/Week |
|---------|-----------|-------------|-----------|
| Squat | 9-15 | 15-20% | 2-3x |
| Hinge | 9-15 | 15-20% | 2-3x |
| Horizontal Push | 8-12 | 10-15% | 2x |
| Horizontal Pull | 8-12 | 10-15% | 2x |
| Vertical Push | 6-10 | 8-12% | 1-2x |
| Vertical Pull | 8-12 | 10-15% | 2x |
| Carry | 6-9 | 8-12% | 2x |
### Intensity & Progression
**RPE Targets:**
- Heavy compounds: RPE 8-9 (1-2 RIR)
- Secondary compounds: RPE 7-8 (2-3 RIR)
- Accessories: RPE 6-7 (3-4 RIR)
**Progression Models:**
- Linear (beginner): +2.5-5 lbs/week for 12-16 weeks
- Wave Loading (intermediate): Vary intensity weekly (RPE 7 -> 8 -> 9, deload)
- Block Periodization (advanced): 4-8 week blocks (hypertrophy -> strength -> power -> deload)
- Exercise Rotation: Every 4-8 weeks (Back Squat -> Trap Bar -> Front Squat)
### Common Mistakes
1. **Neglecting Carries** - Include 2-3 carry variations weekly, 6-9 total sets
2. **Ignoring Push:Pull Balance** - Match or exceed pull volume vs push (1:1 or 1.1:1)
3. **Training to Failure on Accessories** - Leave 2-4 RIR on accessories
4. **Insufficient Rest** - 3-5 min for heavy sets, not 60-90s
5. **Too Many Exercises** - Limit to 4-6 per session
6. **Neglecting Unilateral Work** - Include 15-20% unilateral volume
7. **No Progression Plan** - Run 6-12 week blocks with clear progression
8. **Prioritizing Isolation Over Compound** - 70% compounds, 30% accessories
9. **Skipping Mobility/Warm-Up** - 8-10 min movement prep
### Generator Recommendations
- Default to Full-Body 3x/week for most users
- Mandatory pattern coverage each session (all 7 patterns)
- Carry integration: 2-3 carry variations weekly, 6-9 total sets
- Push:Pull balance enforcement (alert if push exceeds pull by >15%)
- Rest period automation based on reps (not user choice)
- **DB change: Lower duration_bias from 0.3 to 0.15**
---
## 2. Traditional Strength Training
### Quick Reference
| Parameter | Recommended | Current DB |
|-----------|------------|------------|
| **Reps** | 3-6 primary, 6-8 secondary | 4-8 |
| **Rounds/Sets** | 4-6 per exercise | 3-5 |
| **Rest** | 3-5 min compounds, 90s isolation | 90s |
| **Duration Bias** | 0.0-0.1 (all rep-based) | 0.1 |
| **Superset Size** | 1-2 (straight sets preferred) | 1-3 |
| **Intensity** | High | High |
### Key Principles
- **Heavy loads (80-95% 1RM) are the primary driver** - not volume or exhaustion
- Strength is driven by neural adaptations: motor unit recruitment, rate coding, inter-muscular coordination
- 15-25 total working sets per session
- 50-70 min session duration
- Straight sets preferred for main lifts; antagonist supersets OK for accessories only
- **Never train to failure on compounds** - leave 1-2 RIR
### Exercise Selection
**Main Lifts (1 per session, 4-6 sets x 3-6 reps):**
- Barbell Back Squat
- Barbell Deadlift (Conventional or Sumo)
- Barbell Bench Press
- Barbell Overhead Press
**Secondary Lifts (1-2 per session, 3-4 sets x 6-8 reps):**
- Front Squat, Trap Bar Deadlift, Incline Bench, Barbell Row
- Close-Grip Bench, Romanian Deadlift, Pause Squat
**Accessories (2-3 per session, 2-3 sets x 8-12 reps):**
- Pull-Ups, Face Pulls, Dumbbell Rows, Lunges
- Tricep Extensions, Bicep Curls, Lateral Raises
### Workout Structure
```
Warm-Up (8-10 min)
- General movement + specific ramp sets
Main Lift (20-25 min)
- 1 exercise, 4-6 sets x 3-6 reps, 3-5 min rest
Secondary Lifts (15-20 min)
- 1-2 exercises, 3-4 sets x 6-8 reps, 2-3 min rest
Accessories (10-15 min)
- 2-3 exercises, 2-3 sets x 8-12 reps, 60-90s rest
Cool-Down (3-5 min)
```
### Progression
- **Linear** (beginner): Add 5-10 lbs/week
- **Double Progression**: Increase reps first within range, then weight
- **Periodization**: 4-6 week blocks with deloads
- RPE: 7-8 on main lifts, 7-9 on accessories
### Common Mistakes
1. Too many exercises (focus on 4-6 total)
2. Insufficient rest on heavy sets (need 3-5 min, not 60-90s)
3. Training to failure on compounds
4. No deload weeks (every 4-6 weeks)
5. Neglecting posterior chain (pulling should match or exceed pushing)
### Generator Recommendations
- Superset size of 1 (straight sets) is correct for main lifts
- **DB change: Rest could be higher (120s) for heavy compounds**
- Duration bias 0.1 is correct (all rep-based)
---
## 3. HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training)
### Quick Reference
| Parameter | Recommended | Current DB |
|-----------|------------|------------|
| **Reps** | 10-20 per exercise | 10-20 |
| **Rounds** | 3-5 (beginner 6, advanced 8-12) | 3-5 |
| **Rest** | Work:rest varies by level (20:40 to 40:20) | 30s |
| **Duration Bias** | 0.6-0.8 (duration-heavy) | 0.7 |
| **Superset Size** | 4-6 exercises per circuit | 3-6 |
| **Intensity** | High | High |
### Key Principles
- **20-30 minute total duration is optimal** - longer loses the HIIT advantage
- **30:30 work:rest is the "Goldilocks ratio"** - sustainable and highly effective
- Exercise selection matters more than protocol - explosive movements dominate
- Max 2-3 HIIT sessions per week (daily HIIT is counterproductive)
- HR target: 85-95% max HR during work intervals
- Progressive overload: add rounds first, then shorten rest
### Work:Rest Ratios by Fitness Level
| Level | Work:Rest | Max Rounds |
|-------|-----------|------------|
| Beginner | 20:40 or 30:45 | 6 |
| Intermediate | 30:30 or 40:20 | 8-10 |
| Advanced | 40:20 or 45:15 or Tabata (20:10) | 8-12 |
### Common Interval Protocols
| Protocol | Work | Rest | Rounds | Total Hard Work |
|----------|------|------|--------|----------------|
| Tabata | 20s | 10s | 8 | 2:40 per exercise |
| 30:30 | 30s | 30s | 10-12 | 5-6 min |
| 45:15 | 45s | 15s | 8-10 | 6-7.5 min |
| 1:1 | 60s | 60s | 6-8 | 6-8 min |
### Circuit Design
**Exercise Sequence (optimal order):**
1. Large posterior chain (deadlifts, swings)
2. Upper push (push-ups, presses)
3. Core/explosive (burpees, mountain climbers)
4. Upper pull (rows, pull-ups)
5. Lower body (squats, lunges)
6. Finisher (jump rope, high knees)
**Rules:**
- 4-6 exercises per round
- Maintain push:pull ratio (1:1 or 2:2)
- Alternate muscle groups between consecutive exercises
- Never place two lower body exercises back-to-back
### Exercise Bank (HR Elevation Rating 1-10)
| Exercise | HR Rating | Equipment | Type |
|----------|-----------|-----------|------|
| Burpees | 9 | None | Full body |
| Jump Squats | 9 | None | Lower/Explosive |
| Kettlebell Swings | 8 | Kettlebell | Posterior chain |
| Mountain Climbers | 8 | None | Core/Cardio |
| Box Jumps | 8 | Box | Lower/Explosive |
| Battle Ropes | 7 | Ropes | Upper body |
| Thrusters | 9 | DB/BB | Full body |
| Push-Ups | 5 | None | Upper push |
| Rowing | 7 | Rower | Full body |
### Progression Algorithm
- Week 1-2: Establish baseline (moderate work:rest)
- Week 3-4: Add 1 round
- Week 5-6: Reduce rest by 5-10s
- Week 7-8: Extend work intervals or increase exercise difficulty
- Week 9: Deload (50% intensity)
### Common Mistakes
1. Sessions too long (>30 min loses HIIT advantage)
2. Doing HIIT daily (max 2-3x/week)
3. Same protocol every session (rotate exercises every 3-4 weeks)
4. Not reaching target HR zones (85-95% max HR)
5. Poor exercise selection (explosive > moderate intensity)
### Generator Recommendations
- DB looks well-calibrated for HIIT
- Tag exercises by HR elevation speed for better circuit design
- Enforce muscle group alternation in circuits
---
## 4. Cross Training
### Quick Reference
| Parameter | Recommended | Current DB |
|-----------|------------|------------|
| **Reps** | 6-15 WOD work, 1-5 strength | 8-15 |
| **Rounds** | 3-5 | 3-5 |
| **Rest** | 45-120s (varies by format) | 45s |
| **Duration Bias** | 0.3-0.5 (mixed modality) | 0.4 |
| **Superset Size** | 3-5 exercises per circuit | 3-5 |
| **Intensity** | High | High |
### Key Principles
- Combines strength, conditioning, and skill work
- Movement complexity decreases as fatigue increases
- Pulling:pressing ratio should be 1.5:1 minimum (injury prevention)
- Scale workouts to maintain time domain (if Rx takes 8 min, scaled should also ~8 min)
- Weekly structure: 2 strength + 3 conditioning sessions
- Deload every 4-6 weeks
### WOD Formats
| Format | Duration | Movements | Use Case |
|--------|----------|-----------|----------|
| AMRAP | 12-20 min | 2-3 | Work capacity |
| EMOM | 12-20 min | 2-3 | Sustainable intensity, pacing |
| For Time | 8-15 min | 2-4 | All-out effort |
| Chipper | 15-25 min | 4-6 | Volume, mental toughness |
| Strength + WOD | 30-45 min | 1 strength + 2-3 WOD | Mixed emphasis |
### Movement Complexity Hierarchy
Place in workout order:
1. **First (complex, CNS-demanding):** Snatches, Clean & Jerks, HSPU, Muscle-Ups, Rope Climbs
2. **Middle (moderate complexity):** Thrusters, Burpees, Kettlebell Swings, Box Jumps
3. **Last (simple/repetitive):** Air Squats, Jumping Jacks, Rowing, Running, Jump Rope
### Weekly Structure Template
```
Day 1: Lower Body Strength (Heavy) + Long WOD
Day 2: Upper Body/Gymnastics Skill + Short Met-Con
Day 3: Pressing/Upper Strength + Medium WOD
Day 4: Deadlift/Posterior Chain + Short-Medium WOD
Day 5: Mixed/Testing or Long Conditioning
Days 6-7: Rest or very light (mobility, practice)
```
### Rep Range Distribution (Per Week)
- 1-5 reps (strength): 1-2 sessions
- 6-15 reps (power/mix): 2-3 sessions
- 15-30 reps (high volume): 1-2 sessions
- 30+ reps (capacity): 0-1 sessions
- Cardio/monostructural: 2-3 sessions
### Scaling Decision Tree
```
Can athlete perform movement safely?
-> Yes: Scale weight if needed (maintain time domain)
-> No: Scale movement (easier variation)
Is weight at 80%+ of Rx?
-> Yes: Do Rx
-> No: Scale down 15-25%
Does scaled version match Rx time domain?
-> Yes: Good scale
-> No: Adjust reps or weight further
```
### Common Mistakes
1. Form breakdown under fatigue (form > speed always)
2. Complex movements when fatigued (do them first)
3. Insufficient pulling volume (1.5:1 pull:press minimum)
4. No deload weeks
5. Same WOD format every day
### Generator Recommendations
- DB looks well-calibrated for cross training
- Enforce movement complexity ordering
- Track pull:press ratios
---
## 5. Core Training
### Quick Reference
| Parameter | Recommended | Current DB |
|-----------|------------|------------|
| **Reps** | 10-20 (or 30-60s holds) | 10-20 |
| **Rounds** | 2-4 | 2-4 |
| **Rest** | 30-90s | 30s |
| **Duration Bias** | 0.5-0.6 (mix of holds and reps) | 0.5 |
| **Superset Size** | 3-5 | 3-5 |
| **Intensity** | Medium | Medium |
### Key Principles
- Modern core training = **anti-movement**, not crunches
- Every session MUST include: 1 anti-extension + 1 anti-rotation + 1 anti-lateral flexion
- McGill Big 3 (Curl-Up, Side Plank, Bird Dog) are the foundation
- Avoid loaded spinal flexion under fatigue
- Weekly volume: 100-300 total reps
### Exercise Tiers
**Tier 1 (Foundation - every session):**
- Plank (30-60s, 3-4 sets)
- Side Plank (20-45s/side, 3 sets)
- Bird Dog (10/side, 2-3 sets)
- Dead Bug (10/side, 3 sets)
- Pallof Press (10-12/side, 3 sets)
**Tier 2 (Development):**
- Hanging Leg Raise (8-12 reps, 3-4 sets)
- Ab Wheel Rollout (6-10 reps, 3-4 sets)
- Suitcase Carry (40-60m/side, 3-4 sets)
- Cable Woodchop (10-15/side, 3 sets)
- Landmine Rotation (10-15/side, 3 sets)
**Tier 3 (Supplementary):**
- Machine Crunch (12-20 reps, 2-3 sets)
- Russian Twist (15-20 total, 2-3 sets)
- Good Morning (8-12 reps, 3 sets)
- Back Extension (10-15 reps, 3 sets)
- Reverse Hyper (12-15 reps, 3 sets)
**Tier 4 (Advanced):**
- Dragon Flag (3-8 reps, 3 sets)
### Core Training Categories
| Category | Function | Key Exercises |
|----------|----------|---------------|
| Anti-Extension | Resist arching | Plank, Dead Bug, Ab Wheel |
| Anti-Rotation | Resist twisting | Pallof Press, Bird Dog, Cable Chop |
| Anti-Lateral Flexion | Resist side bending | Side Plank, Suitcase Carry |
| Hip Flexion | Controlled flexion | Hanging Leg Raise, Reverse Crunch |
| Rotation | Controlled rotation | Landmine Rotation, Cable Woodchop |
| Extension | Posterior chain | Back Extension, Reverse Hyper |
### Workout Structure (20-30 min)
```
Warm-Up (3-5 min)
- Cat-Cow, hip circles, light movement
Block A: Anti-Movement Foundation (8-10 min)
- 1 anti-extension + 1 anti-rotation (superset)
Block B: Development (8-10 min)
- 1-2 Tier 2 exercises (loaded or dynamic)
Block C: Supplementary (5 min)
- 1-2 lighter exercises or carries
Cool-Down (2-3 min)
```
### Common Mistakes
1. Only doing crunches/sit-ups (need anti-movement training)
2. Ignoring anti-rotation work (most important for injury prevention)
3. Loaded spinal flexion under fatigue (injury risk)
4. No carry work (suitcase carries are incredible for core)
5. Training core only in isolation (integrate with compound lifts)
### Generator Recommendations
- DB is well-calibrated for core training
- Enforce anti-movement category coverage (extension + rotation + lateral each session)
- Include carries as core exercises
---
## 6. Flexibility
### Quick Reference
| Parameter | Recommended | Current DB |
|-----------|------------|------------|
| **Reps** | 1-3 per stretch position | 1-5 |
| **Rounds** | 1-2 | 1-2 |
| **Rest** | 10-15s transition | 15s |
| **Duration Bias** | 0.9-1.0 (all duration-based) | 0.9 |
| **Superset Size** | 4-6 stretches in flow | 3-6 |
| **Intensity** | Low (RPE 5-6) | Low |
### Key Principles
- Hold duration sweet spot: **45-60 seconds** static, 30s minimum
- **Frequency beats intensity**: 3-5x/week x 20-30 min >> occasional long sessions
- Always warm up 5-10 min before dedicated stretching
- RPE 5-6 (mild discomfort, never push to pain)
- Hip mobility gets the largest time allocation
- PNF stretching is most effective for ROM gains (2-3x/week)
- Results noticeable at 4-6 weeks, significant at 8-12 weeks
### Stretching Methods
| Method | Hold Time | Effectiveness | Difficulty |
|--------|-----------|---------------|------------|
| Static | 45-60s | Good | Easy |
| PNF (Contract-Relax) | 6s contract + 30s stretch | Best (2x more effective) | Moderate |
| Dynamic | 10-15 reps | Good for warm-up | Easy |
| Loaded Stretching | 30-60s under load | Very Good | Advanced |
| CARs (Controlled Articular Rotations) | 5-10 reps slow | Good for joint health | Easy |
### Priority Muscle Groups
| Area | Time Allocation | Key Stretches |
|------|----------------|---------------|
| Hips/Hip Flexors | 30-40% | 90/90, Pigeon, Couch Stretch, Hip CARs |
| Hamstrings | 15-20% | Standing Forward Fold, Supine Hamstring, RDL Stretch |
| Shoulders/Thoracic | 15-20% | Wall Slides, Thread the Needle, Doorway Stretch |
| Quads/Ankles | 10-15% | Couch Stretch, Standing Quad, Ankle CARs |
| Spine/Back | 10% | Cat-Cow, Child's Pose, Seated Twist |
### Session Types
**Quick Mobility (15 min):**
- CARs for all major joints (5 min)
- 3-4 targeted static stretches (10 min)
- Best for: daily practice, post-workout
**Targeted Session (30 min):**
- Dynamic warm-up (5 min)
- 6-8 static stretches focused on 1-2 areas (20 min)
- Cool-down flow (5 min)
- Best for: addressing specific tightness
**Full-Body Flexibility (45 min):**
- Dynamic warm-up (8 min)
- 10-12 stretches covering all areas (30 min)
- PNF for 2-3 key stretches
- Cool-down (5 min)
- Best for: dedicated flexibility day
**Yoga Flow (30-45 min):**
- Sun salutation warm-up (5 min)
- Flow sequences (20-30 min)
- Savasana (5 min)
- Best for: variety, mind-body connection
### Progression
- Weeks 1-2: Beginner (RPE 4-5, 30s holds)
- Weeks 3-4: Intermediate (RPE 5-6, 45s holds)
- Weeks 5+: Advanced (RPE 6-7, 60s holds or PNF)
- Every 4 weeks: Introduce new stretches or increase hold times by 10-15s
### Common Mistakes
1. Stretching cold muscles (always warm up first)
2. Pushing through pain (RPE 5-6, never pain)
3. Holding breath (breathe deeply into stretch)
4. Only stretching after workouts (dedicated sessions are more effective)
5. Inconsistency (daily 15 min > sporadic 60 min)
### Generator Recommendations
- DB is well-calibrated for flexibility
- Prioritize hip mobility (largest time allocation)
- Include both static holds and dynamic/flow elements
---
## 7. Cardio
### Quick Reference
| Parameter | Recommended | Current DB |
|-----------|------------|------------|
| **Reps** | N/A (duration-based) | 1-1 |
| **Rounds** | 1-3 | 1-3 |
| **Rest** | 30-120s between intervals | 30s |
| **Duration Bias** | 1.0 (all duration) | 1.0 |
| **Superset Size** | 1-3 | 1-3 |
| **Intensity** | Zone-dependent (2-5) | Medium |
### Key Principles
- **Polarized training**: 70-80% Zone 2 (easy), 20-30% Zone 4-5 (hard)
- **Avoid Zone 3** (gray zone) - provides neither base-building nor performance benefits
- Zone 2 training increases mitochondrial capacity 50% in 8 weeks
- Max 2-3 hard cardio sessions per week
- Every 4th week: deload 20-30%
### Heart Rate Zones
| Zone | %Max HR | Description | Duration | Use |
|------|---------|-------------|----------|-----|
| 1 | 50-60% | Active Recovery | 30-60 min | Recovery days, warm-up |
| 2 | 60-75% | Aerobic Base | 30-90 min | Base building, fat loss |
| 3 | 75-85% | Gray Zone (AVOID) | - | Rarely prescribe |
| 4 | 85-95% | Threshold/VO2max | 3-8 min intervals | Performance, VO2max |
| 5 | 95-100% | Maximum Effort | 15-30s intervals | Power, sprint work |
### Cardio Session Types
| Type | Duration | Intensity | Work:Rest | Best For |
|------|----------|-----------|-----------|----------|
| LISS | 30-90 min | Zone 1-2 | Steady | Base building, fat loss |
| Tempo | 20-40 min | Zone 3-4 | Steady or 3:1 | Threshold development |
| HIIT Intervals | 20-30 min | Zone 4-5 | 1:1 to 2:1 | VO2max, time efficiency |
| Fartlek | 30-45 min | Variable | Unstructured | Speed variation, engagement |
| Sprint | 10-20 min | Zone 5 | 1:3 to 1:4 | Power, fast-twitch fibers |
### VO2max Interval Protocols
**Best protocol: 5-6 x 3 min at 90-95% max HR, 2-3 min recovery**
Why 3 min?
- 30s: Phosphocreatine dominant, not VO2max
- 60s: Still primarily anaerobic
- 3-8 min: Peak VO2max demands (optimal)
- 10+ min: Becomes threshold, less VO2max stress
Expected: 8-15% VO2max improvement over 12 weeks
### Programming by Goal
**Fat Loss (3-5 days/week):**
- 70-80% Zone 2 LISS (30-60 min)
- 1-2 HIIT sessions (20-30 min)
- Total: 3-5 hours/week
**Endurance (5-6 days/week):**
- 80% Zone 1-2 (base building)
- 15% Zone 3-4 (tempo/threshold)
- 5% Zone 5 (optional speed)
- One long session weekly (90-120 min)
- Total: 5-8 hours/week
**Performance / Polarized (4-5 days/week):**
- 80% easy, 20% hard
- 2-3 hard sessions: VO2max, threshold, sprints
- 2-3 easy sessions: Zone 2
- Total: 4-7 hours/week
**General Fitness (3-4 days/week):**
- Mix of modalities
- 70% easy, 30% moderate
- Total: 2-3 hours/week
### Frequency by Experience
| Level | Frequency | Duration | Hard Sessions |
|-------|-----------|----------|---------------|
| Beginner (0-6 mo) | 3 days/week | 20-30 min | 0 (all Zone 1-2) |
| Intermediate (6-18 mo) | 4-5 days/week | 30-45 min | 1-2 |
| Advanced (18+ mo) | 5-6 days/week | 30-60 min | 2-3 |
### Concurrent Training (Cardio + Strength)
- High-volume cardio (>5 hrs/week) = 50% reduction in muscle growth
- Moderate cardio (2-3 hrs/week) = minimal interference
- Separate cardio and strength sessions by 6+ hours
- Strength first if strength is the priority (while CNS is fresh)
### Progression
- Duration: Increase long session by 5-10% weekly
- Intensity: Add repeats, extend intervals, or decrease recovery
- Frequency: Add easy sessions before hard sessions
- Every 4th week: Deload 20-30%
- 8-12 week training blocks
### Common Mistakes
1. **Too much high intensity** - should be 70-80% easy, 20-30% hard (most people do the inverse)
2. Neglecting Zone 2 base building
3. Skipping warmup/cooldown (min 5 min each)
4. Same pace every session (vary intensity deliberately)
5. Not tracking heart rate
6. Ignoring recovery days (at least 1-2 per week)
7. Inadequate progressive overload
### Generator Recommendations
- DB is well-calibrated for cardio
- Reps=1-1 makes sense (single duration bout)
- Model training zones in exercise selection
- Enforce polarized distribution (mostly easy, some hard)
---
## 8. Hypertrophy
### Quick Reference
| Parameter | Recommended | Current DB |
|-----------|------------|------------|
| **Reps** | 6-15 (emphasis on 8-12) | 8-15 |
| **Rounds/Sets** | 3-4 per exercise | 3-4 |
| **Rest** | 2-3 min compounds, 60-90s isolation | 60s |
| **Duration Bias** | 0.1-0.2 (mostly rep-based) | 0.2 |
| **Superset Size** | 2-4 | 2-4 |
| **Intensity** | Medium-High (RPE 7-9) | Medium |
### Key Principles
- **Mechanical tension is the primary driver** of muscle growth
- **Volume landmarks** (per muscle group per week):
- MEV (Minimum Effective Volume): ~6 sets
- MAV (Maximum Adaptive Volume): 12-20 sets
- MRV (Maximum Recoverable Volume): 20-25+ sets
- **Lengthened-position exercises are ~2x more effective** than shortened (e.g., incline curls > preacher curls)
- **2x/week frequency per muscle group** is optimal
- Progressive overload via "double progression": increase reps first, then weight
- Deload every 4-6 weeks at 50% volume
### Per-Session Exercise Template
Per muscle per session:
1. **Heavy compound** (6-10 reps, 4 sets) - mechanical tension
2. **Secondary compound** (8-12 reps, 3 sets) - moderate load
3. **Lengthened-position isolation** (10-15 reps, 3 sets) - stretch emphasis
4. **Shortened/mid-range isolation** (12-15 reps, 2-3 sets) - metabolic stress
Total: 4 exercises, 12-15 sets per muscle group
### Rep Range Prescription
| Exercise Type | Reps | Purpose |
|---------------|------|---------|
| Heavy compounds | 6-8 | Mechanical tension |
| Secondary compounds | 8-10 | Volume accumulation |
| Isolations | 10-15 | Mind-muscle, metabolic stress |
| Final sets | 12-15 | Time-efficient finish |
### Volume Landmarks by Muscle Group
| Muscle | MEV (sets/week) | MAV (sets/week) | MRV (sets/week) |
|--------|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|
| Chest | 8 | 12-16 | 20-22 |
| Back (width) | 8 | 14-18 | 22-25 |
| Back (thickness) | 6 | 10-14 | 18-20 |
| Shoulders (side/rear) | 8 | 16-22 | 25+ |
| Quads | 8 | 12-18 | 20-24 |
| Hamstrings | 6 | 10-14 | 16-20 |
| Biceps | 6 | 10-14 | 18-20 |
| Triceps | 6 | 8-12 | 16-18 |
| Glutes | 4 | 8-12 | 16-20 |
### Training Splits
| Split | Frequency | Best For |
|-------|-----------|----------|
| Full Body 3x/week | 2x/muscle/week | Beginners |
| Upper/Lower 4x/week | 2x/muscle/week | Intermediate |
| Push/Pull/Legs 6x/week | 2x/muscle/week | Advanced |
### Lengthened-Position Exercise Priority
| Muscle | Lengthened Exercise (Preferred) | Shortened (Less Effective) |
|--------|-------------------------------|---------------------------|
| Chest | Incline DB Fly, Cable Fly (low) | Pec Deck |
| Biceps | Incline DB Curl, Bayesian Curl | Preacher Curl |
| Triceps | Overhead Tricep Extension | Pushdowns |
| Quads | Leg Extension (bottom ROM), Sissy Squat | Leg Press (top only) |
| Hamstrings | Romanian Deadlift, Seated Leg Curl | Lying Leg Curl |
| Lats | Pullover, Lat Pulldown (long ROM) | Close-grip rows |
### RIR/RPE Targets
| Set Type | RPE | RIR |
|----------|-----|-----|
| Compound sets 1-2 | 7-8 | 2-3 |
| Compound sets 3-4 | 8-9 | 1-2 |
| Isolation sets 1-2 | 7-8 | 2-3 |
| Isolation final set | 8-10 | 0-1 (can go to failure) |
### Progression
- **Double progression**: Progress reps within 2-rep range, then increase weight by 5%
- Weekly target: 1-2 extra reps on one exercise OR weight increase on 2-3 exercises
- Deload every 4-6 weeks (50% volume, maintain intensity)
- Rotate lengthened/mid/shortened position emphasis across sessions
### Common Mistakes
1. Not enough volume per muscle (need 10-20 sets/week for most)
2. Too much volume beyond MRV (overtraining)
3. Ignoring lengthened-position exercises (2x more effective)
4. Only training to failure (save failure for isolation final sets)
5. Rest too short on compounds (need 2-3 min, not 60s)
6. Not tracking progressive overload
7. Same exercises forever (rotate every 4-8 weeks)
### Generator Recommendations
- **DB change: Rest from 60s to 90s** (compounds need 2-3 min)
- **DB change: Intensity from medium to high**
- Prioritize lengthened-position exercises in selection
- Track volume per muscle group against volume landmarks
- Enforce push:pull balance
---
## 9. DB Calibration Summary
### Recommended Changes
| Workout Type | Field | Current | Recommended | Reason |
|-------------|-------|---------|-------------|--------|
| Functional Strength | duration_bias | 0.3 | **0.15** | Should be mostly rep-based |
| Traditional Strength | typical_rest | 90s | **120s** | Heavy compounds need 3-5 min |
| Hypertrophy | typical_rest | 60s | **90s** | Compounds need 2-3 min |
| Hypertrophy | typical_intensity | medium | **high** | RPE 7-9 target |
### Values That Are Already Correct
| Workout Type | Status |
|-------------|--------|
| HIIT | Well-calibrated |
| Cross Training | Well-calibrated |
| Core Training | Well-calibrated |
| Flexibility | Well-calibrated |
| Cardio | Well-calibrated |
---
## 10. Universal Rules Across All Types
These principles apply regardless of workout type:
1. **Push:Pull Balance** - 1:1 minimum, pulling >= pushing (prevents shoulder injury)
2. **Deload Every 4-6 Weeks** - 40-50% volume reduction, maintain intensity
3. **Compound Before Isolation** - Heavy, complex movements when fresh
4. **Complex Exercises Early** - CNS-demanding movements first in session
5. **Never Train to Failure on Compounds** - Leave 1-2 RIR (except hypertrophy isolation final sets)
6. **Progressive Overload** - Non-negotiable across all types (add weight, reps, sets, or reduce rest)
7. **Warm-Up is Mandatory** - 5-10 min general + specific preparation
8. **Cooldown Exercises Should Be Stretch/Mobility Only** - No heavy compound in cooldowns
9. **48-72 Hour Recovery** - Between same muscle group heavy training
10. **Periodization** - 4-12 week blocks with planned progression and deloads
### Rest Period Quick Reference (All Types)
| Rep Range | Rest Period | Application |
|-----------|-------------|-------------|
| 1-5 reps | 3-5 min | Max strength |
| 6-8 reps | 2-3 min | Strength-hypertrophy |
| 8-12 reps | 90-120s | Hypertrophy |
| 12-20 reps | 45-90s | Endurance, accessories |
| Duration holds | 30-60s transition | Flexibility, core holds |
| HIIT intervals | Work:rest ratio based | See HIIT section |
### Exercise Selection Priority (All Types)
1. **Barbell compounds** - Maximum load capacity
2. **Dumbbell compounds** - Stability demand, unilateral
3. **Kettlebell movements** - Ballistic, functional
4. **Bodyweight** - Accessibility, fundamental patterns
5. **Cable/Machine** - Constant tension, joint-friendly
6. **Bands** - Accommodating resistance, travel-friendly
---
## Sources
Research based on:
- Schoenfeld et al. - Meta-analyses on training frequency, volume, rep ranges
- McGill, S. - Low back disorders, core stability research
- Stöggl & Sperlich (2015) - Polarized training superiority
- Biddle & Batterham (2015) - HIIT vs LISS comparison
- Inigo San Millan - Zone 2 training research
- Mike Israetel - Volume landmarks (MEV/MAV/MRV)
- Dan John, Pavel Tsatsouline - Functional strength, carries
- Wendler (5/3/1), RPE-based frameworks
- NSCA position stands on periodization, progressive overload
- Cipriani et al. (2012) - Stretching duration research
- Bandy & Irion (1994) - ROM adaptation frequency
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