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Home » Heather Jacques

Posts by Heather Jacques

Heather Jacques

About Heather Jacques

Heather Jacques is a former collegiate athlete that graduated from Grand Valley State University with a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training. Along with writing content for Lift Vault, Heather works for one of the fastest growing sports nutrition companies, Axe & Sledge Supplements, as their product specialist. Heather is an avid lifter, snowboarder, and outdoor enthusiast. She was born in Colorado, raised in northern Michigan, and currently resides in Pennsylvania. Heather's primary goal is to help others achieve their health and fitness goals through education, motivation, and inspiration.

Pendlay Row Benefits, Muscles Worked, and Form

By Heather Jacques
Last updated March 25, 2024


As an affiliate of various sites, including Amazon Associates, I may earn a commission on qualifying purchases via links in this post at no extra cost to you. See Full Disclosure

The Pendlay row is a compound movement popularized by weightlifting coach Glenn Pendlay. It’s effective for increasing upper body strength, mass, and power. Not to be confused with the traditional barbell row, this variation is known for being more strict since the barbell returns to the floor after each repetition.

In this article we’ll detail the muscles the Pendlay row works, how to perform the movement with proper form, and some of its key benefits. 

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises
Tagged With: Exercise Overview



Farmer’s Carry Benefits & Muscles Worked

By Heather Jacques
Last updated January 21, 2024


As an affiliate of various sites, including Amazon Associates, I may earn a commission on qualifying purchases via links in this post at no extra cost to you. See Full Disclosure

The farmer’s carry, also known as the farmer’s walk or suitcase carry, is a whole-body exercise that involves holding a weight in both hands while walking for a pre-determined distance or amount of time. Similar to carrying grocery bags from the car to the house in one trip, this exercise became well-known throughout the health and fitness industry thanks to Strongman and CrossFit. 

People commonly use dumbbells, kettlebells, and plates to perform this exercise. Some training facilities may even offer farmer’s carry handles, which are useful for going extremely heavy and practicing for competition. Even if you’re not looking to compete, this exercise offers several benefits and trains many muscle groups simultaneously!

In this article, we’ll cover the major muscle groups worked by the farmer’s carry and identify the top five benefits you can expect from adding this exercise to your routine.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises
Tagged With: Exercise Overview



Bulgarian Split Squats Muscles Worked & Benefits

By Heather Jacques
Last updated January 21, 2024


As an affiliate of various sites, including Amazon Associates, I may earn a commission on qualifying purchases via links in this post at no extra cost to you. See Full Disclosure

The Bulgarian split squat is a single-leg squat variation where the rear foot is elevated on a bench or box. This exercise effectively increases leg strength, muscle mass, and balance.

Since the Bulgarian split squat is a unilateral exercise, it’s great for correcting and preventing muscular imbalances. Most people have one leg that’s stronger than the other, so doing this exercise regularly helps balance both sides. The Bulgarian split squat has an excellent carry-over to other movements, such as the barbell squat and deadlift.

This exercise may be more challenging than others, but it offers several benefits and works multiple muscles simultaneously. This article covers Bulgarian split squat’s top five benefits, the targeted primary muscle groups, and more!

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises
Tagged With: Exercise Overview



Hack Squat Muscles Worked and Benefits

By Heather Jacques
Last updated August 30, 2023


As an affiliate of various sites, including Amazon Associates, I may earn a commission on qualifying purchases via links in this post at no extra cost to you. See Full Disclosure

The hack squat is a machine-based, compound exercise that adds strength and size to the lower body. While it’s often used as an accessory to the barbell back squat, the hack squat also serves as an alternative because it places greater demand on the quads, is safer to train to failure, and requires less mobility.

Although there are some hack squat variations, this article will cover the muscles the machine hack squat works and some of its primary benefits. 

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises
Tagged With: Exercise Overview



Hammer Curl Benefits and Muscles Worked

By Heather Jacques
Last updated August 30, 2023


As an affiliate of various sites, including Amazon Associates, I may earn a commission on qualifying purchases via links in this post at no extra cost to you. See Full Disclosure

The hammer curl is a popular biceps exercise performed with the wrist in a neutral position. Unlike a standard bicep curl, this exercise targets more of the bicep peak and forearms. It requires minimal equipment to perform and is rather simple to learn.

The hammer curl is an effective exercise for increasing the size and strength of the upper arms. This article covers the top of hammer curl benefits and muscles worked. 

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises
Tagged With: Exercise Overview



The Top 6 Muscles Worked by Glute Bridges

By Heather Jacques
Last updated February 11, 2024


As an affiliate of various sites, including Amazon Associates, I may earn a commission on qualifying purchases via links in this post at no extra cost to you. See Full Disclosure

The glutes are an important muscle group for almost every movement. Strengthening them through resistance training can improve your posture, performance, and aesthetics. Several exercises can be utilized to build your glutes, such as hip thrusts, glute kickbacks, and Romanian deadlifts.

If you’re new to glute training, getting proficient at the glute bridge is a great place to start. This exercise has  good carry-over to more advanced lower-body movements like the squat and deadlift.

Glute bridges are one of the few isolation exercises that can be heavily loaded, making them effective for building a bigger and stronger posterior chain. This exercise is easy to perform, simple to set up, and can be modified according to equipment availability.

The glute bridge primarily works the gluteus maximus in addition to various other leg muscles.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises
Tagged With: Exercise Overview



The Top 5 Bench Press Muscles Worked

By Heather Jacques
Last updated August 30, 2023


As an affiliate of various sites, including Amazon Associates, I may earn a commission on qualifying purchases via links in this post at no extra cost to you. See Full Disclosure

The barbell bench press is a compound movement effective for gaining upper body strength and size. This exercise is extremely popular due to its minimalistic nature, prevalence in strength sports, and ability to train multiple muscle groups simultaneously.

This article will cover all of the muscles a traditional bench press works, and a few frequently asked questions about this exercise. While many multiple bench press variations exist, this article focuses on the flat barbell bench press.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises
Tagged With: Exercise Overview



The 5 Best Benefits of Planks

By Heather Jacques
Last updated August 30, 2023


As an affiliate of various sites, including Amazon Associates, I may earn a commission on qualifying purchases via links in this post at no extra cost to you. See Full Disclosure

A defined midsection and strong core are common hallmarks of an effective fitness routine. The core is made up of several muscles, including the rectus abdominis, external obliques, internal obliques, and transverse abdominus. In addition to flexing the torso, the core stabilizes and protects the spine.

The plank is one of the best exercises for the oft-neglected transverse abdominis and requires little to no equipment, is simple to learn, and can be scaled according to someone’s fitness level.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises
Tagged With: Exercise Overview



The Top 5 Leg Press Muscles Worked

By Heather Jacques
Last updated July 19, 2023


As an affiliate of various sites, including Amazon Associates, I may earn a commission on qualifying purchases via links in this post at no extra cost to you. See Full Disclosure

The lower body is heavily judged in physique competitions and is rigorously trained in most comprehensive workout programs. Although fitness enthusiasts commonly joke about skipping leg day, training the lower body should be a priority regardless of a person’s goals. A popular exercise for lower-body training is the leg press.

The leg press is a machine-based, compound exercise that’s effective for increasing the size and strength of the lower body. A compound exercise means that multiple muscle groups are working at one time. 

The leg press primarily targets the quadriceps. However, stance can be adjusted to place more tension on the glutes and hamstrings. This exercise can also be performed one leg at a time to correct or prevent muscle imbalances.

Although the quads are the primary muscle worked by the leg press, read below to learn about other muscles involved in the movement.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises
Tagged With: Exercise Overview



Arnold Split Workout + Free Example Spreadsheet

By Heather Jacques
Last updated March 26, 2024


As an affiliate of various sites, including Amazon Associates, I may earn a commission on qualifying purchases via links in this post at no extra cost to you. See Full Disclosure

Jump to Free Program Spreadsheet

Arnold Schwarzenegger, also known as the Austrian Oak, is a world-renowned actor, politician, and professional bodybuilder. At just 20 years old, Arnold became the youngest person to win the Mr. Universe title in the sport of competitive bodybuilding.

In 1968, Arnold made the move from Austria to America and ended up winning five Mr. Universe titles along with seven Mr. Olympia titles. To share his knowledge and love of bodybuilding, Arnold wrote a few books, including The New Encyclopedia of Modern Bodybuilding: The Bible of Bodybuilding, first published in 1985.

Whether looking to step on stage, get in shape, or learn a thing or two about bodybuilding, many consider this book to be a must-have. Arguably the most popular feature of The New Encyclopedia of Modern Bodybuilding is the training programs, including basic and advanced versions.

Although this article will not fully disclose the training programs, it will discuss the main principles of the legendary Arnold split. 

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Bodybuilding Program, Programs
Tagged With: Exercise Overview



The Best Way to Pick a Powerlifting Coach

By Heather Jacques
Last updated June 25, 2023


As an affiliate of various sites, including Amazon Associates, I may earn a commission on qualifying purchases via links in this post at no extra cost to you. See Full Disclosure

Hiring a powerlifting coach can benefit both beginner and experienced athletes. Many considerations must be made when searching for the right coach.

Beginner powerlifters should find a coach willing to conduct in-person training to help master the technique and form of each lift. Since the big three (squat, bench press, and deadlift) are technical lifts, in-person feedback can reduce the risk of injury and developing poor movement patterns.

Experienced lifters can train with an online coach, where they send videos for form/technique analysis and virtual feedback. Social media and other online platforms make it possible for athletes to access a larger pool of coaches.

In either case, it’s important to note that an accomplished lifter doesn’t always equate to a skilled coach. As such, consider interviewing candidates to learn more about their coaching style and experience.

Use the following list of questions to help discover the right powerlifting coach before investing in a program.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Resources




The 8 Best Deadlift Benefits

By Heather Jacques
Last updated February 11, 2024


As an affiliate of various sites, including Amazon Associates, I may earn a commission on qualifying purchases via links in this post at no extra cost to you. See Full Disclosure

Few exercises exist for increasing strength, performance, and muscle mass in the shortest possible time. The deadlift is a popular compound exercise that trains multiple muscle groups simultaneously. 

The deadlift is a universal exercise that’s used in several strength sports, including powerlifting, strongman, and CrossFit. Choose from a number of variations based on goals, equipment, body type, and preferences. In addition to strength, the movement is also very effective for building lower and upper body muscle.

Moreover, the deadlift can support various other movements and daily activity. This article will cover the top eight benefits of deadlifts as well as some frequently asked questions.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises
Tagged With: Exercise Overview



Seated Cable Row Benefits, Form, and Muscles Worked

By Heather Jacques
Last updated January 26, 2024


As an affiliate of various sites, including Amazon Associates, I may earn a commission on qualifying purchases via links in this post at no extra cost to you. See Full Disclosure

The back is made up of several different muscles and numerous exercises can target them. The cable row is a popular choice for building a stronger and bigger back. 

This article will detail the muscles worked by the cable row, how to perform the movement with proper form, and a few of its primary benefits.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises
Tagged With: Exercise Overview



How to Perform the Overhead Press with Proper Form

By Heather Jacques
Last updated June 9, 2023


As an affiliate of various sites, including Amazon Associates, I may earn a commission on qualifying purchases via links in this post at no extra cost to you. See Full Disclosure

Adding the overhead press, also known as the military or strict press, to a workout routine increases upper body strength. The overhead press is a compound movement that targets the anterior and lateral delts, upper chest, and triceps. If performed standing, it also helps improve core strength.

The lift has great carry-over to other movements, such as the clean and jerk, snatch, push press, and bench press. Overall, the overhead press is a very functional exercise that can benefit athletics and daily activities.

It’s important to note that performing the military press with proper form requires good shoulder mobility before attempting to press a lot of weight overhead. 

The overhead press is safe when applying proper form. This article will explain how to apply correct technique, including tips and common mistakes to avoid. 

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises
Tagged With: Exercise Overview



Front Squat Benefits and Muscles Worked

By Heather Jacques
Last updated May 20, 2023


As an affiliate of various sites, including Amazon Associates, I may earn a commission on qualifying purchases via links in this post at no extra cost to you. See Full Disclosure

The barbell squat is often considered to be the king of all exercises, and for good reason! The barbell squat trains nearly every muscle in the body simultaneously. Not to mention, it’s equally effective for building muscle and gaining strength. 

The front squat is a popular barbell squat variation. Like a barbell back squat, the front squat trains several muscle groups at once but places more emphasis on the quads.

Olympic weightlifters and CrossFit athletes commonly perform the front squat because it has a greater carry-over to the clean and jerk compared to back squats. With that said, the front squat is also included in powerlifting programs as an accessory lift to the barbell back squat. Bodybuilders often perform the front squat to place more tension on the quads and stimulate hypertrophy.

We will cover the benefits and the major muscle groups that are working during the movement. 

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises
Tagged With: Exercise Overview



Decline Bench Press Benefits and Muscles Worked

By Heather Jacques
Last updated May 20, 2023


As an affiliate of various sites, including Amazon Associates, I may earn a commission on qualifying purchases via links in this post at no extra cost to you. See Full Disclosure

The bench press is key to increasing chest size and upper body strength. The compound movement allows lifting the maximum amount of weight. Adjusting bench angle also helps target specific areas of the chest.

The three most common bench press variations are incline, flat, and decline. An incline bench press targets the upper chest, the flat targets the middle chest, and the decline targets the lower chest. 

The decline bench press, though not the most common variation, has several benefits which will be discussed in this article, along with the major muscle groups recruited for the movement.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises
Tagged With: Exercise Overview



The Best Push-Pull Workout Routine

By Heather Jacques
Last updated February 11, 2024


As an affiliate of various sites, including Amazon Associates, I may earn a commission on qualifying purchases via links in this post at no extra cost to you. See Full Disclosure

One of the most commonly asked questions for resistance training is … what’s the best workout split for gaining muscle? Although many workout splits exist to choose from, it can be challenging to know which is best for you. Before choosing which workout split to try, start by determining number of training days.

For most people, a four-day workout program is optimal because it allows for sufficient training volume and frequency to see progress, while also leaving time for activities outside of the gym.

In this article, we provide you with a definitive guide to a push-pull workout routine.

With just four days per week, an effective push-pull workout routine can be created that’s both enjoyable and effective. Keep reading to learn more.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Programs




The Top 10 Muscles Worked by Planks

By Heather Jacques
Last updated June 29, 2023


As an affiliate of various sites, including Amazon Associates, I may earn a commission on qualifying purchases via links in this post at no extra cost to you. See Full Disclosure

A strong core is crucial for nearly every physical movement. Many exercises exist for improving your midsection’s strength, stability, and definition. Most core exercises require minimal to no equipment and can be scaled according to experience or strength level.

The major muscle groups that the plank works include the core, glutes, hamstrings, upper back, and shoulder. Keep reading to discover why the plank is so effective for core strength.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises
Tagged With: Exercise Overview



Romanian Deadlift Benefits and Muscles Worked

By Heather Jacques
Last updated February 25, 2024


As an affiliate of various sites, including Amazon Associates, I may earn a commission on qualifying purchases via links in this post at no extra cost to you. See Full Disclosure

Deadlifts are commonly found in most strength-building programs with several variations to choose from, including the Romanian deadlift.

The Romanian deadlift, more commonly referred to as “RDL,” is a variation of the conventional deadlift that builds and strengthens the posterior chain. The RDL targets more glutes and hamstrings, and less back than the conventional deadlift. 

Furthermore, the movement begins from a standing position, whereas conventional deadlifts start from the floor. Considered to be a compound exercise, working several muscles simultaneously, the Romanian deadlift has numerous benefits.

This article will discuss the top five benefits of the Romanian deadlift, as well as key muscles worked.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises
Tagged With: Exercise Overview



The Top 10 Pull-up Muscles Worked

By Heather Jacques
Last updated April 20, 2023


As an affiliate of various sites, including Amazon Associates, I may earn a commission on qualifying purchases via links in this post at no extra cost to you. See Full Disclosure

Although a well-equipped gym is ideal for building muscle strength and size, several bodyweight exercises are very effective and oftentimes underrated. They also require minimal to no equipment so that you can do them anywhere. One commonly used bodyweight exercise is the pull-up.

Not to be confused with chin-ups, the pull-up exercise involves pulling your chin or chest up to a bar from a dead hang with your palms facing away from you. The pull-up is well-known for increasing upper body strength and size and the only equipment needed is a pull-up bar. 

This article will review all of the muscles worked by the pull-up for determining best practice, form and execution to be included in any workout.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises
Tagged With: Exercise Overview



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