8 Moves to Build Strength: Beginner Upper Body Workout

April 21, 2023

If you're just starting your to work out and looking to build strength, incorporating a beginner upper body workout into your routine can help you get started. Building upper body strength not only helps improve your physical appearance but also helps with everyday tasks and improves overall health. If you're just beginning your fitness journey, here's 8 moves to build strength and provide an upper body workout plan to help you get started.

  1. Push-ups: Start with modified push-ups on your knees or against a wall if you are unable to do a full push-up. Work up to doing full push-ups, aiming for 3 sets of 8-12 reps.

  2. Dumbbell bench press: Lie flat on a bench with your feet on the ground and a dumbbell in each hand. Slowly lower the weights towards your chest, then press them back up. Aim for 3 sets of 8-12 reps. Start with lower weights until you've worked your way up to heavier ones over time.

  3. Seated dumbbell shoulder press: Sit on a bench with a dumbbell in each hand at shoulder level. Press the weights overhead, then lower them back down. Aim for 3 sets of 8-12 reps.

  4. Dumbbell rows: Place one hand and knee on a bench with the other foot on the ground. Holding a dumbbell in your other hand, pull the weight up towards your chest, then lower it back down. Aim for 3 sets of 8-12 reps on each side.

  5. Bicep curls: Stand with a dumbbell in each hand, palms facing forward. Curl the weights up towards your shoulders, then lower them back down. Aim for 3 sets of 8-12 reps.

  6. Tricep extensions: Stand with a dumbbell in each hand, arms straight overhead. Lower the weights behind your head, then press them back up. Aim for 3 sets of 8-12 reps.

  7. Plank: Start on your hands and knees, then straighten your legs behind you, supporting your weight on your forearms. Hold for 30 seconds, then work up to holding for 1-2 minutes.

  8. Reverse fly: Lie on a bench face down with a dumbbell in each hand. Lift the weights up towards your shoulders, then lower them back down. Aim for 3 sets of 8-12 reps.

All in all, incorporating an upper body workout into your fitness routine can help you build strength and improve your overall health. Remember to start with lighter weights and proper form, gradually increasing the weight and intensity as you progress. Aim to perform this workout 2-3 times a week, with rest days in between to allow your muscles to recover. 

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