How to Create a Complete Full Body Workout Routine with Just 5 Exercises
How to Create a Complete Full Body Workout Routine with Just 5 Exercises
Struggling to fit a full workout into your busy schedule? You're not alone. Many professionals find it challenging to dedicate time to the gym, especially when juggling work, family, and social commitments. Fortunately, you can achieve a complete full body workout in just 20 minutes with only five effective exercises. This routine is perfect for beginners and can be done in the comfort of your home, requiring minimal space and no equipment.
Quick Stats Box
- Total Time: 20 minutes (including warm-up and cool-down)
- Equipment Needed: None
- Difficulty Level: Beginner-friendly
- Calories Burned: Approximately 150-250 calories depending on intensity
Warm-Up (5 Minutes)
A proper warm-up is essential to prepare your body for exercise and reduce the risk of injury. Here’s a quick five-minute routine:
- Arm Circles - 1 minute (30 seconds forward, 30 seconds backward)
- Leg Swings - 1 minute (30 seconds front to back, 30 seconds side to side)
- High Knees - 1 minute (30 seconds slow, 30 seconds fast)
- Torso Twists - 1 minute (gently twist side to side)
- Bodyweight Squats - 1 minute (slow, controlled movements)
Full Body Workout Routine
Here’s your complete workout routine with just five exercises. Perform each exercise for the specified reps and sets, taking 45 seconds of rest between sets.
| Exercise Name | Reps | Sets | Rest | Tempo | Form Cue | Modification | |-----------------------|-------------|------|---------------|---------------------------|------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------| | Bodyweight Squats | 15 reps | 3 | 45 seconds | 2 seconds down, 1 second pause, 2 seconds up | Keep your chest up and push through your heels | Use a chair for support if needed | | Push-Ups (Knees or Standard) | 10 reps | 3 | 45 seconds | 2 seconds down, 1 second pause, 2 seconds up | Keep your body in a straight line from head to knees/toes | Do them on your knees for an easier version | | Plank | 30 seconds | 3 | 45 seconds | Hold | Keep your body straight from head to heels | Drop to your knees for a modified plank | | Lunges | 10 reps per leg | 3 | 45 seconds | 2 seconds down, 1 second pause, 2 seconds up | Step far enough to keep your knee behind your toes | Perform reverse lunges to reduce difficulty | | Glute Bridges | 15 reps | 3 | 45 seconds | 2 seconds up, 1 second pause, 2 seconds down | Squeeze your glutes at the top for 2 seconds | Do single-leg glute bridges for a challenge |
Exercise Summary Table
| Exercise Name | Reps | Sets | Total Time | |-----------------------|-------------|------|--------------| | Bodyweight Squats | 15 reps | 3 | 6 minutes | | Push-Ups | 10 reps | 3 | 6 minutes | | Plank | 30 seconds | 3 | 4.5 minutes | | Lunges | 10 reps/leg| 3 | 6 minutes | | Glute Bridges | 15 reps | 3 | 6 minutes | | Total Workout Time| | | 20 minutes|
Cool-Down (3-5 Minutes)
Finish your workout with a cool-down to help your body recover:
- Standing Forward Bend - 1 minute
- Seated Hamstring Stretch - 1 minute per leg
- Child’s Pose - 1 minute
Conclusion and Next Steps
Congratulations on completing your full body workout! This routine is designed to be efficient and effective, fitting seamlessly into your busy life. Aim to do this workout 3 times a week, allowing for rest days in between to recover.
As you become more comfortable with these exercises, consider increasing your reps or sets, or trying more advanced variations. If you find yourself plateauing, don’t hesitate to mix in different movements or increase the tempo for an added challenge.
For personalized coaching with real-time feedback, consider HipTrain’s live 1-on-1 video training sessions with certified trainers. They’re HSA/FSA eligible, allowing you to save 30%+ with pre-tax dollars.
Get Personalized Coaching with Real-Time Feedback
Live 1-on-1 sessions with certified trainers. HSA/FSA eligible. Try your first session free.