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6 Push Pull Legs Programs: Best Collection Of PPL Spreadsheets

by Nader Qudimat
Updated June 22, 2023
OVERVIEW
Goal
Hypertrophy and / or strength
Experience Level
Novice, intermediate to advanced level trainees.
Periodization
Periodization methods vary.
Duration
Duration varies.
Positives
Flexible and customizable 
Less likely to get bored with this
Negatives 
Some training knowledge is required
Some programs need more calcuating than others

Bottom Line

Our favorite type of program are the push pull legs workouts. 

There's so much that can be customized and it's flexible. 

It doesn't matter what level or your lifting goals are, this type of program can work well for mostly anyone. 

Here you'll find several PPL templates that you can choose from. .

Make sure you make a copy of the spreadsheet.

For how to save spreadsheet instructions on mobile or desktop. 

Jump down to the collection

Push pull legs structure is widely used when it comes to lifting for any goal.

Bodybuilders, strength training, powerbuilding..

You name it and you'll find a use with these types of templates. 

This type of program uses a style of workouts that involves grouping one type of exercise under one workout. 

For example, one day would be push, and this would only have exercises like bench press, dumbbell press, overhead press, etc.

And another day would be pull.

This would allow the opposite muscles to recover.

Doing this would help maximize hypertrophy and strength, as the volume and intensity would vary from week to week, day to day. 

Why Use 6 Day Push Pull Leg Programs?

The 6-day push pull leg program is a highly efficient workout regimen that divides your workout into push days, pull days, and leg days over 6 days. This allows for optimal muscle recovery and growth, making it an excellent choice for beginners and advanced lifters.

The 6-Day Push Pull Legs Program Guide

The Push, Pull, Legs (PPL) workout routine is a popular and effective training method fitness enthusiasts use worldwide.

This routine targets different muscle groups on different days, allowing optimal muscle recovery and growth.

This guide will dive into the 6-day PPL routines, their benefits, and how to implement them effectively.

What is a 6-Day PPL Routine?

A 6-day PPL routine is a workout program that divides your workout days into three categories: push, pull, and legs.

The "push" day focuses on the muscles used for pushing exercises (chest, shoulders, and triceps), the "pull" day targets the muscles used for pulling exercises (back and biceps), and the "legs" day is dedicated to the lower body muscles.

This routine is repeated twice a week, resulting in a 6-day workout schedule with a rest on the seventh day.

Benefits of the 6-Day PPL Routine

The 6-day PPL routine offers several benefits:

  1. Balanced Muscle Training: This routine ensures that all major muscle groups are trained evenly throughout the week, promoting balanced muscle development.

  2. Improved Recovery: By focusing on different muscle groups daily, the PPL routine allows for adequate recovery time for each muscle group while you train the others.

  3. Versatility: The PPL routine can be tailored to fit individual fitness goals, whether strength building, muscle hypertrophy, or fat loss.

  4. Prevents Workout Boredom: The variety in daily workouts can help keep your training program exciting and prevent workout boredom.

Implementing the 6-Day PPL Routine

Implementing the 6-day PPL routine requires careful planning to ensure that each muscle group is effectively targeted. Here is a sample 6-day PPL routine:

  1. Day 1 - Push: Focus on exercises like bench press, shoulder press, and tricep extensions.
  2. Day 2 - Pull: Incorporate exercises such as pull-ups, bent-over rows, and bicep curls.
  3. Day 3 - Legs: Perform exercises like squats, deadlifts, and lunges.
  4. Day 4 - Push: Repeat the push exercises with variations if desired.
  5. Day 5 - Pull: Repeat the pull exercises with variations if desired.
  6. Day 6 - Legs: Repeat the leg exercises with variations if desired.
  7. Day 7 - Rest: Allow your body to recover and prepare for the next cycle.

Remember, the key to any successful workout routine is consistency.

Ensure you perform each exercise with proper form and control to maximize muscle engagement and prevent injury.

6 Day Push Pull Legs Programs

Here you'll find the best 6 day push pull day programs. 

Now, let's talk about tracking your progress.

This is where spreadsheets come in handy.

They allow you to record your workouts, track your progress, and make adjustments as needed.

We've put together a collection of spreadsheets specifically designed for the 6-day push pull leg program.

These spreadsheets will help you stay organized and focused on your fitness goals.

Must Read: Spreadsheet Access

NOTE: Please make a copy by clicking File > Make  (requesting edit access is incorrect). For how to save spreadsheet instructions, click here. 

Metallicadpa Beginner PPL

The Metallicadpa push pull program is one of the most popular choices. 

It allows for exercise selection, and you can choose the progression rate for each exercise. 

It's also known as the Reddit PPL and you can find more info here

Metallicadpa Beginner Spreadsheet

nSuns 5/3/1

This is a program from Reddit but it isn't by nSuns and a lot of users have found it intriguing. 

It uses the rep scheme of the nSuns LP compound lifts (T1 lifts) along with the 5/3/1 BB rep scheme for the high volume sets (T2 lifts, like high rep sets of 10).

nSuns 5/3/1 LP PPL with BBB Spreadsheet

PHUL 6 Day PPL

The original PHUL program is a 4 day split, but this is a 6 day push pull legs variation.

You can see the original PHUL program here. 

And below is the push pull legs variation: 

PHUL 6 Day PPL Workout Split Spreadsheet

GZCL

This is a push pull legs variant of the original GZCLP. 

GZCL PPL 

Coolcidia

The Coolciada program is another split that comes from the bodybuilding.com forums.

It's been online for a while but the Reddit PPL (Metallicadpa) above is much more popular.   

Coolcicada 6 Day PPL Workout Split With Deadlifts

Blood God PPL 

As the name sounds, this is a program that is highly demanding but it isn't well known. 

Blood God PPL Workout Split Spreadsheet

Who Is The PPL Workout Routine For?

The PPL (Push, Pull, Legs) workout routine is a versatile and flexible program that can cater to a wide range of fitness levels.

Whether you're a beginner just starting out, an intermediate trainee looking to step up your game, or an advanced lifter seeking a new challenge, the PPL routine can be tailored to meet your needs.

Beginners can benefit from the PPL routine as it provides a structured and balanced approach to training all major muscle groups.

Intermediate and advanced trainees can also benefit from the PPL routine as it allows for a high frequency of training, which can lead to greater muscle growth and strength gains.

The Structure of the PPL Workout Routine

The PPL workout routine is typically structured over six days, with each day dedicated to either pushing exercises, pulling exercises, or leg exercises.

Push days focus on the muscles involved in your body's pushing actions, mainly your chest, shoulders, and triceps.

Pull days are dedicated to the muscles involved in pulling actions, which include your back and biceps. Lastly, leg days target your lower body, including your quads, hamstrings, glutes, and calves.

Rest days are also an essential part of the routine, allowing your muscles time to recover and grow.

Different Variations of the PPL Workout Routine

There are several variations of the PPL workout routine, each with its own unique set of pros and cons. Some popular PPL programs include the Metallicadpa Beginner PPL, nSuns 5/3/1, and PHUL 6 Day PPL.

The Metallicadpa Beginner PPL is a great choice for beginners due to its simplicity and focus on progressive overload.

The nSuns 5/3/1 program is a more advanced variation that incorporates elements of powerlifting and bodybuilding for those looking to build both strength and size. The PHUL 6 Day PPL is a hybrid program that combines powerlifting and hypertrophy training, making it a good option for intermediate to advanced lifters.

Choosing the right PPL program ultimately depends on your individual fitness goals, experience level, and personal preferences.

How to Maximize Gains with the PPL Workout Routine

To maximize gains with the PPL workout routine, consistency and progressive overload are key. It's important to stick to your routine and gradually increase the intensity of your workouts over time.

Nutrition also plays a crucial role in muscle growth and strength. Consuming a balanced diet rich in protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats can provide your body with the nutrients it needs to recover and grow.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Following the PPL Workout Routine

Common mistakes to avoid when following the PPL workout routine include neglecting proper form and technique, not allowing enough time for recovery, and not eating a proper diet.

Proper form and technique are crucial for preventing injuries and ensuring that you're effectively targeting the intended muscles. It's also important to allow your muscles enough time to recover between workouts. Overtraining can lead to injuries and hinder your progress.

Lastly, nutrition should not be overlooked. Consuming a balanced diet can provide your body with the nutrients it needs to recover and grow.

Remember, the PPL workout routine is just a tool. How you use it will determine your results.

Warm Up

Because there seems to be a growing trend to sitting more and more often, the warm up becomes a very important part of our workouts. 

It needs to be done in order to prime the body and muscles for an oncoming slaughter. 

I recommend performing at least 5-10 minutes of any sort of light cardiovascular activity, until you feel warm or break a sweat. 

Once you do that, perform a few light sets of the muscles you're about to workout. 

You should do at least 3-4 warm up sets before your actual workout, and then follow the program's workouts. 

You can do 1-2 warm up sets before a specific exercise. 

What Is PPL?

PPL stands for push, pull, legs. 

These types of programs typically have 6 workouts per week, but it can also be customized to 3 per week. 

The ones listed here are 6 day programs and they have stimulate each muscle group twice per week. 

This type of program will result in a week where there's 1 day rest after the 3rd day (like push/pull/legs/rest/push/pull/legs).

What's the difference between PPL vs Lower Body / Upper Body?

A push pull legs program will organize exercises by their category for each workout.

Like for push: bench press, overhead press, dumbbell press, triceps

For pull: rows, pull downs, pull ups, deadlifts

For legs: squats, front squats, any leg exercise

An upper / lower body program will organize exercises similarly, by upper body exercises and lower body exercises. 

For example upper body exercises will include any exercise that will engage the upper body, like bench press, rows, curls, tricep extensions, etc. 

While lower body will have exercises just for the legs, like squats, calf raises, or any leg exercise. 

Signs of Burnout?

Overtraining can cost you weeks or even months in rare cases if you're not careful.

By overtraining, you will increase your risk of injury, which can happen easily if you're overworked.

It's best to take a week off or take it easy if you have been training hard for a few weeks.

Usually pre made programs will account for this for you.

Here are some overtraining signs to look out for:

  • Pain at joints like knees, elbows, shoulders, etc.
  • Soreness at distal portion of muscle.
  • Like feeling sore near joints.
  • Lack of proper sleep
  • Suddenly feeling sick or a cold coming on- immune system is compromised.
  • Loss of libido
  • Depression

If you ignore these signs and keep exercising, you will eventually hit a plateau and will increase chance of injury.

If you're already experiencing these symptoms, take it easy and avoid pushing yourself for at least a week or two.

Benefits of the 6-Day Push Pull Leg Program

So, why should you consider the 6-day push pull leg program?

Well, there are several benefits to this approach.

First, it allows for optimal muscle recovery.

Working in different muscle groups on different days gives your muscles time to rest and grow.

Second, it's efficient.

You're working your entire body over six days, which can lead to significant gains in muscle mass and strength.

Third, it's flexible.

You might wonder, "Why should I switch to a 6-day push pull leg program?"

Well, let's dive into the science behind it.

Research has shown that this type of workout regimen allows optimal muscle recovery.

Working different muscle groups on different days gives your muscles time to rest and grow.

This is crucial because muscle growth happens during recovery, not during the workout.

Another benefit of the 6-day push-pull leg program is its efficiency2.

You're working your entire body over six days, which can lead to significant gains in muscle mass and strength.

Plus, it's flexible.

You can adjust the intensity of your workouts based on your fitness level and goals.

And if you get bored easily, this program is a great way to keep things interesting.

You're not doing the same daily exercises, making you less likely to hit a plateau.

But don't just take my word for it.

A study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that athletes who used a similar workout regimen saw improvements in their performance and muscle recovery.

And another study published in Cogent Food & Agriculture found that a similar approach to fitness led to improved growth performance.

So, if you want to take your fitness to the next level, the 6-day push pull leg program might be just what you need.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

While the 6-day push pull leg program is effective, it's not foolproof.

There are common mistakes that people make when following this program.

But don't worry, I've got you covered.

Here are some of the most common mistakes and how to avoid them:

Mistake 1: Not giving your muscles enough time to recover

Remember, recovery is key.

If you're not giving your muscles enough time to recover, you won't see the results you want.

So, make sure you're taking that rest day seriously.

Mistake 2: Not eating enough

Your body needs fuel to power through these workouts and to recover afterward.

So, ensure you're eating a balanced diet high in protein.

Mistake 3: Not mixing up your exercises

Variety is the spice of life, and the same goes for your workouts.

Try to mix up your exercises to keep things interesting and avoid hitting a plateau.

Mistake 4: Not tracking your progress

If you're not tracking your progress, how will you know if you're improving?

Make sure to record your workouts, noting the weights you're lifting, and how many reps and sets you're doing.

This will help you see where you're improving and where you might need to put in more work.

Mistake 5: Not warming up or cooling down

Warming up before your workout and cooling down afterwards is crucial.

It helps prepare your body for the workout and aids in recovery afterwards.

So, don't skip these steps.

The Bottom Line On 6 Day Push Pull

So, there you have it.

The 6-day push pull leg program is a comprehensive and efficient approach to fitness.

It allows for optimal muscle recovery, promotes muscle growth, and can be adapted to suit your fitness level and goals.

With the help of our collection of spreadsheets, tracking your progress is a breeze.

And remember, while this program is effective, it's not foolproof.

Avoid common mistakes like not giving your muscles enough time to recover, not eating enough, not mixing up your exercises, not tracking your progress, and not warming up or cooling down.

Whether you're a beginner looking to get started or an experienced lifter looking to shake things up, the 6-day push pull leg program could be just what you need to take your fitness to the next level.

FAQ

1. What is a 6-day push pull leg program?

A 6-day push pull leg program is a type of workout regimen that divides your exercises into three categories: push, pull, and legs. You work different muscle groups on different days, allowing each group ample time to rest and recover before the next workout.

2. Who can benefit from a 6-day push pull leg program?

Both beginners and advanced lifters can benefit from this program. It's a flexible and efficient way to work your entire body over the course of six days.

3. How does the 6-day push pull leg program promote muscle growth?

This program promotes muscle growth by allowing for optimal muscle recovery. By working different muscle groups on different days, you're giving your muscles time to rest and grow. Muscle growth actually happens during the recovery period, not during the workout itself.

4. What exercises are included in the push, pull, and leg days?

Push exercises target the muscles you use to push things away from your body—think chest, shoulders, and triceps. Pull exercises work the muscles you use to pull things towards you—like your back and biceps. And leg exercises target your lower body, including your quads, hamstrings, and calves.

5. What are some common mistakes to avoid when following a 6-day push pull leg program?

Some common mistakes include not giving your muscles enough time to recover, not eating enough to fuel your workouts and recovery, and not mixing up your exercises to keep things interesting and avoid hitting a plateau.

6. Can I do cardio while following a 6-day push pull leg program?

Yes, you can incorporate cardio into this program. However, it's important to listen to your body and not overdo it. Remember, recovery is key to muscle growth.

7. How long should I follow the 6-day push pull leg program?

This depends on your fitness goals. Some people might see results in a few weeks, while others might need to follow the program for a few months. It's always a good idea to consult with a fitness professional to determine what's best for you.

8. Do I need to take supplements while following a 6-day push pull leg program?

While it's not necessary to take supplements, some people find that supplements like protein powder and BCAAs can help support muscle growth and recovery. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

9. Can I follow the 6-day push pull leg program if I'm new to weightlifting?

Yes, this program is suitable for beginners. However, it's important to start with lighter weights and focus on proper form to avoid injury.

10. How can I track my progress while following the 6-day push pull leg program?

You can track your progress by recording your workouts, noting the weights you're lifting, and how many reps and sets you're doing. You can also take progress photos or measure your body parts to track physical changes.

Bottom Line: 6 Day PPL Programs

The 6-day push pull leg program offers a balanced and comprehensive approach to fitness, focusing on different muscle groups on different days for optimal growth and recovery.

With the aid of our collection of spreadsheets, tracking your progress becomes a breeze. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced lifter, this program can be a game-changer in your fitness journey.

by Nader Qudimat

Forged by iron and cold steel, I'm Nader, a mid-30s natural bodybuilder. Once a 100lb skinny guy, I've transformed into a 200lb muscular athlete with over 15 years of lifting experience. Today, I leverage my transformation and extensive experience to guide countless individuals on their fitness journeys.

Click here to check out my 12 year transformation: Natural 12 Year Transformation

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