Full body workouts are incredibly effective for women looking to build strength, tone their physique, and maximize limited gym time. Instead of spending separate days on legs, arms, and back, you train everything in each session—hitting each muscle multiple times per week for faster progress. This program is designed specifically for women who want efficient, effective training that builds a balanced, strong body.

Why Full Body Training Works

Training each muscle group three times per week produces faster progress than hitting it once. Your muscles recover within 48-72 hours and are ready to be trained again. Full body workouts capitalize on this by providing frequent stimulus.

Women often focus too heavily on certain areas (legs, glutes) while neglecting others (upper body, back). Full body training ensures balanced development—you can't skip upper body when it's part of every workout.

Time efficiency is another advantage. Three 45-minute sessions per week is all you need. Miss a day? No muscle group goes untrained for a week like with split routines. Life-friendly training leads to better consistency.

Benefits for Women

  • Balanced Development

    Train upper and lower body equally for a proportioned, athletic physique.

  • Higher Training Frequency

    Hit each muscle 3x per week for faster strength and toning results.

  • Time Efficient

    Complete training in 3 sessions weekly—perfect for busy schedules.

  • Better Metabolism

    Training all muscles elevates metabolism more than isolated workouts.

  • Flexibility

    Miss a workout? No muscle group is neglected for an entire week.

  • Easier Recovery

    Moderate volume per muscle means less extreme soreness.

Program Overview

Frequency3 days per week (example: Mon/Wed/Fri)
Duration40-50 minutes per session
StructureFull body each session with different exercise emphasis
EquipmentDumbbells, Cables or bands, Bench

Who it's for: Women seeking efficient, complete body training

Don't have all this equipment? GymFriend can build you a custom program using whatever you have available.

Why These Exercises?

Each exercise in this program was selected for a specific reason. Here's why:

Dumbbell Goblet Squat

Targets legs and glutes while building core stability. The foundation of lower body strength.

Dumbbell Bench Press

Builds chest and arm strength. Creates upper body tone that many women neglect.

Cable One Arm Bent Over Row

Back strength for posture and a toned appearance from behind.

Resistance Band Hip Thrusts On Knees

The most effective exercise for glute development—often a priority area.

Dumbbell Seated Shoulder Press

Shoulder development for a balanced upper body.

Weighted Front Plank

Core stability supports all other exercises and daily function.

The Complete 3 days (example: Mon/Wed/Fri) Program

Follow this program consistently for best results. Start with weights that feel manageable and aim to increase gradually each week as you get stronger.

Day 1
Day 1: Full Body A
Jack Burpee
2 minutes
Dumbbell Goblet Squat
3 sets12 reps15-30 lbs90 seconds rest
Dumbbell Bench Press
3 sets10 reps10-25 lb dumbbells each90 seconds rest
Cable One Arm Bent Over Row
3 sets10 each arm reps10-25 lbs60 seconds rest
Resistance Band Hip Thrusts On Knees
3 sets12 reps45-95 lbs60 seconds rest
Push-up
From knees if needed
3 sets10-12 reps60 seconds rest
Weighted Front Plank
3 sets30 seconds45 seconds rest
Standing Calves Calf Stretch
30 seconds each leg
Behind Head Chest Stretch
30 seconds each side
Day 2
Day 2: Full Body B
Barbell Romanian Deadlift
3 sets10 reps15-30 lb dumbbells each90 seconds rest
Cable Bar Lateral Pulldown
3 sets10 reps45-75 lbs90 seconds rest
Dumbbell Goblet Squat
3 sets10 reps15-30 lbs90 seconds rest
Dumbbell Seated Shoulder Press
3 sets10 reps10-20 lb dumbbells each60 seconds rest
Barbell Glute Bridge
3 sets15 reps60 seconds rest
All Fours Squad Stretch
2 sets10 each side reps45 seconds rest
Hamstring Stretch
30 seconds each leg
Kneeling Lat Stretch
30 seconds each side
Day 3
Day 3: Full Body C
Jack Burpee
2 minutes
Ankle Circles
1 sets10 each leg reps
Inchworm
1 sets5 reps
Resistance Band Hip Thrusts On Knees
3 sets12 reps45-95 lbs90 seconds rest
Dumbbell Goblet Squat
3 sets10 reps15-30 lbs90 seconds rest
Cable One Arm Bent Over Row
3 sets10 each arm reps10-25 lbs60 seconds rest
Dumbbell Rear Lunge
3 sets10 each leg reps10-20 lb dumbbells each60 seconds rest
Push-up
3 sets10-12 reps60 seconds rest
Weighted Front Plank
3 sets30-45 seconds45 seconds rest
Side Lying Floor Stretch
30 seconds each leg
Side Lying Floor Stretch
30 seconds each side

Want this program adjusted for your fitness level, goals, or schedule? GymFriend can create a personalized version just for you.

Starting Full Body Training

  • Start with weights you can control with good form. Progress when exercises feel easy.
  • Don't skip upper body exercises. Balanced training creates a balanced physique.
  • Focus on progressive overload—adding weight or reps over time.
  • Rest at least one day between sessions for recovery.
  • Eat enough protein (0.8g per pound bodyweight) to support muscle development.
  • Track your workouts to ensure consistent progress.

Edit your plan, track progress, and get realtime coaching

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Frequently Asked Questions

Will full body training make me bulky?

No. Women lack the hormones for significant bulk. Full body training creates a toned, athletic physique.

Can I do more than 3 days per week?

Stick to 3 days for full body training—your muscles need recovery time. If you want to train more, add light cardio on off days.

What if I want to focus on glutes?

This program includes strong glute work. If you want more, add a second hip thrust or glute bridge variation.

How quickly will I see results?

Strength improvements appear in 2-3 weeks. Visible toning typically takes 6-8 weeks with consistent training and proper nutrition.

Should I do cardio too?

Not required for toning. Add light cardio on off days if you want additional calorie burn or enjoy it.