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2026-03-1510 min read

PPL Workout Program (Push Pull Legs): Complete Guide 2026

What is the PPL Program?

PPL (Push Pull Legs) is one of the most popular and effective workout programs. It splits your training into 3 session types:

  • Push: Chest, shoulders, triceps
  • Pull: Back, biceps, rear delts
  • Legs: Quads, hamstrings, calves, glutes
  • Why PPL is So Effective

  • Optimal frequency — Each muscle is trained 2x per week (on a 6-day cycle)
  • Sufficient volume — Enough volume per session to stimulate growth
  • Recovery — Push muscles recover during pull sessions
  • Flexibility — Adaptable to 3, 4, 5 or 6 days per week
  • Example PPL Program

    Push (Monday & Thursday)

    ExerciseSets × Reps
    Bench Press4 × 6-8
    Incline DB Press3 × 8-10
    OHP3 × 8-10
    Lateral Raises4 × 12-15
    Tricep Pushdowns3 × 10-12
    Dips3 × 8-12

    Pull (Tuesday & Friday)

    ExerciseSets × Reps
    Pull-ups4 × 6-8
    Barbell Row4 × 8-10
    Lat Pulldown3 × 10-12
    Face Pulls4 × 12-15
    DB Curls3 × 10-12
    Hammer Curls3 × 10-12

    Legs (Wednesday & Saturday)

    ExerciseSets × Reps
    Squat4 × 6-8
    Leg Press3 × 10-12
    Lunges3 × 10-12/leg
    Leg Curl4 × 10-12
    Standing Calf Raise4 × 12-15
    Leg Extension3 × 12-15

    How to Track PPL with GymTool

    With GymTool, setting up and tracking a PPL program is dead simple:

  • Create your 3 templates (Push, Pull, Legs) in the app
  • Start a session with one tap — exercises are pre-filled
  • Log each set in under 2 seconds
  • Track your progress — GymTool automatically detects PRs and shows you progress charts
  • GymTool's advantage over Hevy or Strong: you can also track nutrition in the same app. No need to open MyFitnessPal separately.

    Tips for PPL Progress

  • Progressive overload: Increase weights by 2.5% when you complete all reps
  • Deload: Reduce weights by 40% every 6-8 weeks
  • Nutrition: 1.6-2.2g protein/kg and a caloric surplus for bulking
  • Sleep: 7-9h minimum for muscle recovery
  • Consistency: The best program is the one you follow regularly
  • GymTool

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