Contents
Ivysuar 4-4-8 Program Overview
Initially shared on Reddit’s /r/fitness community by /u/ivysaur, the Ivysaur 4-4-8 Beginner Program was designed to improve upon the foundation laid out by popular “sets of 5” novice lifting programs like Starting Strength and Strong Lifts.
Graduates of the Ivysaur 4-4-8 program may be interested in checking out the Ivysaur Intermediate Aesthetic Workout Program for inducing muscular growth.
Ivysaur 4-4-8 vs. Strong Lifts vs. Starting Strength
The Ivysaur Beginner Program differs from Starting Strength and Strong Lifts in a few important ways:
- More bench press volume and frequency
- More deadlift volume and frequency
- AMRAP sets to determine rate of progression instead of only using linear progression rates
- Squatting 1-2x per week instead of 3x per week
- More direct bicep work via chin ups
The program takes advantage of the novice lifter’s ability to recover more quickly between workouts by turning the volume and frequency up a notch. This makes it a great option for “graduates” of the Strong Lifts or Starting Strength programs as well as lifters just getting started.
Truthfully, if you’re a novice lifter, focus on eating, sleeping, and lifting. You’ll figure programming out along the way.
Full program description, FAQ, comments, and sources.
Questions about Ivysaur 4-4-8?
Discuss Ivysaur 4-4-8 with other lifters on the Lift Vault Forum.
Ivysaur 4-4-8 Program Spreadsheet
8/3/20 Update: Just added starting weight calculation tab to make figuring out your 4×4 weight easier.
Click to Copy: lvysaur 4-4-8 Program Spreadsheet - LiftVault.com
Ivysaur 4-4-8 Program Summary & Progression
See below for a handy cheat sheet on how to structure the Ivysaur beginner program and add weight after a successful week of hitting all prescribed reps.
