Week 1 - Foundation Block

Lower (Strength Focus)

Lower-body strength work with emphasis on hamstrings and quads while keeping RPE targets under control.

Session at a Glance

  • 6 compound and accessory lifts to build strength through the posterior chain and quads.
  • Use the RPE guidelines to manage load selection and keep reps crisp.
  • Leverage the substitution list if equipment is limited at your gym.

Warm-up Reminder

  • Layer in ramp-up sets before each main lift to groove your squat and hinge patterns.
  • Keep rest long on squats and RDLs; shorten it for curls, raises, and core work.

Exercise 1

Lying Leg Curl

Watch demo
Warm-up
2 sets
Working sets
2 sets
Reps
8-10
Set 1 RPE
~7-8
Last set RPE
~8-9
Rest
1-2 min

Set the pad so you can sink into a deep stretch and keep your hips planted as you curl.

Exercise 2

Smith Machine Squat

Watch demo
Warm-up
2-4 sets
Working sets
2 sets
Reps
6-8
Set 1 RPE
~6-7
Last set RPE
~7-8
Rest
3-5 min

After unracking, slide your feet forward 3-6 inches to stay upright and load the quads. Adjust stance if heels lift or your back rounds.

Exercise 3

Barbell RDL

Watch demo
Warm-up
2-4 sets
Working sets
2 sets
Reps
6-8
Set 1 RPE
~6-7
Last set RPE
~7-8
Rest
2-3 min

Stay in the bottom 3/4 of the range to keep constant hamstring tension and avoid snapping to full lockout.

Substitutions

Exercise 4

Leg Extension

Watch demo
Warm-up
1-2 sets
Working sets
2 sets
Reps
8-10
Set 1 RPE
~7-8
Last set RPE
~8-9
Rest
1-2 min

Set the seat far back, brace hard with the handles, and use a 2-3 second negative to feel the quads stretch apart.

Substitutions

Exercise 5

Standing Calf Raise

Watch demo
Warm-up
1-2 sets
Working sets
2 sets
Reps
6-8
Set 1 RPE
~7-8
Last set RPE
~8-9
Rest
1-2 min

Pause 1-2 seconds at the bottom and roll across the ball of your foot instead of just bouncing to your toes.

Exercise 6

Cable Crunch

Watch demo
Warm-up
1 set
Working sets
2 sets
Reps
8-10
Set 1 RPE
~7-8
Last set RPE
~8-9
Rest
1-2 min

Round your lower back as you pull the rope down and keep the mind-muscle connection on your abs.