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Home » Kyle Risley

Posts by Kyle Risley

Kyle founded Lift Vault in 2016 to make it easier to everyone to find quality programming. He continues to compete in powerlifting as an aggressively average lifter.

About Kyle Risley

Kyle Risley founded Lift Vault in 2016 to make finding great powerlifting programs easier. Since then, the site has grown to include hundreds of programs for strength, bodybuilding, Olympic weightlifting, and more. He currently lives in Massachusetts and continues to compete in powerlifting.

Beast Slayer 2.0 Program Spreadsheet (Bald Omni-Man)

By Kyle Risley
Last updated March 23, 2026

Experience level: Intermediate

Weeks: 10

Meet prep program: No

Program goal: Peaking, Strength


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

Beast Slayer 2.0 is a 4 day per week hypertrophy program created by Coach Paris Butler, better known as Bald Omni-Man on YouTube. It uses a hybrid upper/lower + full body split to hit your upper body 3x per week and lower body 2x per week in 4 training sessions per week.

What I like about this program is how it handles progression. Instead of just one method, it gives you several tools: double progression, dynamic double progression, cluster sets, and an optional linear periodization track for your main compounds. You pick the right tool for each lift. That kind of flexibility is rare in a free program.

Note: If you’re looking for a more flexible schedule (3-5 days), check out Paris’s Golden Warrior program, which has built-in 3, 4, and 5 day variants. If you want a 6 day PPL, he also has Power Bomb PPL.

This is the 2025 update to the original Beast Slayer. The biggest changes: more pulling volume (the #1 piece of feedback from 1.0) and an updated exercise selection with dropdown menus in the spreadsheet. The lower body frequency is only 2x per week, so if legs are your priority, you might want something with more squat and deadlift volume.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: 10 Week Programs, Programs, Strength Training Program
Tagged With: 4 Day Workout Plan
Squat frequency: 2
Bench press frequency: 2
Deadlift frequency: 1
Overhead press frequency: 1

America’s Most Welcoming Gyms

By Kyle Risley
Last updated March 30, 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

Filed Under: Resources
Tagged With: no ads



Push Press Muscles Worked & Benefits

By Kyle Risley
Last updated March 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 push press is a vertical pressing exercise commonly used to build and strengthen the shoulders. Unlike the strict overhead press, the push press engages the lower body to push more weight overhead. This exercise has various benefits and trains several muscle groups.

This article covers the top five benefits and the primary muscle groups worked by the push press. Keep reading to see why it may be worth adding to a workout routine.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises
Tagged With: Exercise Overview



The 7 Most Effective Hamstring Isolation Exercises

By Kyle Risley
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

Sculpting your hamstrings, or the “hammys” as we affectionately call them, plays a key role in leg movement and stability.

When trained, they can also give your legs a more complete and “full” look. So, why not look into how to work them properly? Luckily, you don’t need to look far.

With this guide, you’ll have the top isolation hamstring exercises at your fingertips, as well as some handy training tips.

Before we begin, remember that true isolation exercises are single-joint and don’t have many variations. Also, we’ve presented these exercises from most to least isolated for your convenience.

Get ready to transform your hamstring routine and give this muscle the attention it deserves!

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises




The 8 Most Effective Tricep Isolation Exercises

By Kyle Risley
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

This is the ultimate guide on sculpting your arms using 8 of the best tricep exercises. But these aren’t just any regular triceps exercises.

The ones we’ve hand-picked are isolation exercises which means that they’ll help you build strength and enhance your tricep muscle definition. However, keep in mind that there aren’t many variations seeing that real isolation exercises focus on a single joint.

Oh, and don’t worry, we won’t just hand the tricep exercises over to you and throw you in the deep end.

We’ll walk you through every exercise from the most isolated to the least, provide you with instructional videos, and break down how the tricep is built and how exactly to train it.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises




The 5 Most Effective Back Isolation Exercises

By Kyle Risley
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

Every now and again, you hit a plateau with your back workouts where you just can’t seem to make any progress. When that happens it’s a clear sign that you need to switch things up. A great way to do that is isolation exercises.

Don’t know what that is or which ones to do?

Don’t worry, we’ve got your back (pardon the pun, we’ll see ourselves out…)!

Just a note: True isolation exercises are single-joint and don’t have many variations, so we’ve also decided to present the exercises in order of most to least isolated.

This is the only guide you’ll ever need on the best back isolation exercises. From the classic pull-up to the underestimated power of the lat pulldown, let’s take a look at seven of the best

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises




The 5 Most Effective Quad Isolation Exercises

By Kyle Risley
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

Let’s be honest no one likes the idea of being called “chicken legs” and with summer always just around the corner, you’d probably want to be cranking out those gym shorts without fear.

Three words: quad isolation exercises.

They’re the ideal tool for transforming your quads into masterpieces that’ll make Tom Platz jealous.

Before we go any further, remember that true isolation exercises involve a single joint and we don’t have much room for variation. So while these may not seem like adventurous exercises, they are effective for developing quad strength and size.

The exercises you’re about to learn about are presented from the most to the least isolated.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises




How to Design Strength Training Programs Using Prilepin’s Chart and INOL

By Kyle Risley
Last updated February 23, 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 following is an archived copy of a PDF file that was originally written by Hristo Hristov and published on Powerlifting Watch in 2005. It describes how INOL was created to address shortcomings of Prilepin’s Chart. It is shared below with small modifications.

During the sixties and seventies of the 20th century, Soviet sports scientist A.S.Prilepin collected data from the training logs of more than 1000 World, Olympic, National and European weightlifting champions.

Prilepin synthesized his findings in a very simple table named after himself. Prilepin’s table gives time tested workout guidelines as to how did elite weightlifters train. Now, I am talking about training guidelines for pure maximal strength.

Here’s the table:

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Resources




SSPT Deadlift Singles Program Spreadsheet

By Kyle Risley
Last updated February 12, 2024

Recommended by Lift Vault: Yes

Experience level: Advanced, Intermediate

Weeks: 11, 6

Periodization: Linear Periodization

Program goal: Deadlift, Powerlifting

Uses RPE: No

Uses 1RM Percentage(%): Yes


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

Matt Gary at SSPT is well-known as an advocate of mainly performing the competition deadlift only as singles.

The main reasons for this is that it gives the athlete more opportunity to practice their approach and setup of the lift and that it removes the stretch reflex from assisting with subsequent reps.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Deadlift Program, Lift Specific Program, Programs

Squat frequency: 0
Bench press frequency: 0
Deadlift frequency: 1, 2, 3
Overhead press frequency: 0

The 5 Best Single Cable Chest Exercises

By Kyle Risley
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

Welcome to our all-in-one guide for mastering chest exercises using just a single cable.

This guide is perfect for those times when you’re aiming to fix muscle imbalances or when you find yourself with only one cable at your disposal.

Cable exercises are not just versatile, they’re also super effective. They offer you a full range of motion and keep your muscles under constant tension, which can lead to some seriously impressive muscle growth and strength.

So whether you’re in a gym with limited gear or at home with a single cable station, these exercises have got you covered.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises




The 6 Most Effective Lower Chest Cable Exercises

By Kyle Risley
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

Do you want to maximize your chest gains using a cable machine? Well, then you’re in luck. While plenty of seasoned gym-goers focus on standard chest movements like bench presses, paying attention to your lower chest can actually elevate your physique and contribute to a more well-rounded upper body.

In this article, we’ll explore the best lower chest exercises that are known for their ability to isolate and train specific muscles and keep constant tension. So prepare to build a stronger, more defined upper body with these fantastic movements.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises




The 4 Best Rotator Cuff Cable Exercises

By Kyle Risley
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

Are you struggling to improve your shoulder’s range of motion?

Experiencing aches and pains in your shoulder when throwing, swimming, or rowing?

Well, cable exercises that specifically target the rotator cuff might be just the thing you need. They help to improve the shoulder’s stability, strength, and mobility.

We’ve tried all of the exercises out there and put together this list of the four best to give you a headstart. We’ll tell you about the benefits of each one, how to perform them properly and give you some other useful information about the rotator cuff.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises




The 8 Most Effective Compound Glute Exercises

By Kyle Risley
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

Are you looking for compound exercises that primarily engage your glutes but also target other muscle groups? Well, you’re in luck!

We’ve spent a lot of time testing out the most popular (and some of the lesser known) compound glute exercises to see which ones are the most effective for building strength and muscle mass.

We’ve compiled this list of the best ones so that you can choose the exercises that are right for you.

We’ll tell you all about the benefits of each one, how to perform them properly, how to program your workout routines and much more!

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises




The 11 Most Effective Compound Leg Exercises

By Kyle Risley
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

Leg day is vital in your workout routine, and compound leg exercises mean more bang for your buck – especially if you’re short on time. Activating multiple muscle groups has many benefits for your lower body, such as burning more calories and improving intramuscular coordination.

Read along to learn about the best compound leg exercises, their benefits, and how to perform them.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises




The 10 Most Effective Back Compound Exercises

By Kyle Risley
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

In the pursuit of a stronger and more well-defined back, using compound exercises is crucial. These movements work multiple muscles at once, making them perfect for an effective (and efficient) workout.

Not only can this save you time in the gym, but it also means that your entire back is being worked by one or two exercises for a well-rounded physique.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or a pro at bulking up your muscles, everyone can benefit from our list of the 10 best compound back exercises.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises




The 8 Most Effective Upper Body Compound Exercises

By Kyle Risley
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

Are you on the hunt for compound exercises that efficiently target your upper body muscles? You’re in the right place!

We’ve researched the most popular and effective compound upper body exercises to determine which ones are the most efficient for building strength and muscle mass.

We’ve assembled this list of the top ones so you can pick the exercises that best suit your needs.

You’ll find comprehensive details about the advantages of each exercise, how to execute them correctly, and how to program your workout routines.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises




The 8 Most Effective Dumbbell Compound Exercises

By Kyle Risley
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

Whether you’re aiming to enhance your power, optimize your training routine, or maximize your gym investment, you’ve landed on the perfect guide for dumbbell compound exercises.

These aren’t just randomly selected workouts. Every dumbbell compound exercise in this guide is supported by research regarding its efficiency.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises




The 10 Most Effective Compound Exercises

By Kyle Risley
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

Whether you’re looking to boost your strength, streamline your workout, or get the most bang for your buck at the gym, you’ve come to the right place for the ultimate guide to compound exercises.

These aren’t just any old exercises that we’ve thrown together. All of the exercises in this guide are backed up by research in terms of their effectiveness.

Ready to get a taste of the secret sauce to efficient training? Let’s go!

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises




The 7 Best Compound Shoulder Exercises

By Kyle Risley
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

Compound shoulder exercises are an integral part of any comprehensive strength training program. Even though these exercises are ultimately designed to target your shoulders, they also engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously, providing a more efficient workout overall.

Compound movements also elicit a higher hormonal response, releasing essential growth hormones and testosterone, making it easier to lose fat and gain muscle.

Incorporating compound exercises into your routine not only expedites strength gains and broadens your shoulders, but also enhances joint stability and flexibility, reducing the risk of injuries.

Let’s look at some of the top compound shoulder exercises you should add to your routine to build your upper body.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises




The 6 Best Compound Tricep Exercises

By Kyle Risley
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

Are you struggling to build your arms? Do you feel like you lack definition, no matter how many upper arm workouts you do?

You might be doing the wrong exercises for your triceps! When it comes to building arm muscles, compound exercises are the way to go. These exercises not only target your triceps but also the surrounding muscle groups to give you well-defined, strong arms.

Read on for the 6 best compound tricep exercises and their benefits. We’ll also discuss how to train your triceps and briefly touch on the anatomy of the triceps muscles.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Exercises




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