Advanced Training Methods
Achieving fitness goals requires consistent effort and well-structured workout routines. For those seeking to take their training beyond basic workouts, advanced training methods offer effective ways to break plateaus and accelerate progress. This article explores advanced training techniques suitable for fitness enthusiasts and athletes across Australia.

Why Use Advanced Training Methods?
Advanced training methods are designed to challenge the body differently, stimulating muscle growth, enhancing strength, and improving overall athletic performance. These techniques provide variety, which prevents boredom and plateaus in progress.
Key Advanced Training Techniques
Here are essential advanced training methods for optimising workouts:
1. Supersets
Workout Example:
- Bench Press (Chest): 3 sets x 10 reps
- Bent-over Rows (Back): 3 sets x 10 reps
- Rest: 30 seconds between supersets
2. Drop Sets
Workout Example:
- Dumbbell Curls: 3 sets starting with 12 reps, then reduce weight by 20% each set immediately after failure
- Rest: Minimal (10–15 seconds)
3. Pyramid Training
Workout Example:
- Squats:
- Set 1: 15 reps (light weight)
- Set 2: 12 reps (moderate weight)
- Set 3: 10 reps (heavy weight)
- Set 4: 8 reps (heavier weight)
- Rest: 60–90 seconds between sets
4. Interval Training (HIIT)
Workout Example:
- Sprints: 30 seconds sprint / 60 seconds jog x 10 intervals
5. Circuit Training
Workout Example:
- Circuit (3 rounds): Push-ups, Squats, Lunges, Burpees (10 reps each)
- Rest: 1–2 minutes between rounds
6. Forced Reps
Workout Example:
- Bench Press: 3 sets x 10 reps with 2–3 forced reps at the end assisted by a partner
- Rest: 90 seconds between sets
7. Rest-Pause Training
Workout Example:
- Squats: Perform a set of 8 reps, rest 15 seconds, then perform 2–4 more reps
- Rest: 90–120 seconds between each complete set
8. Eccentric Training
Workout Example:
- Bicep Curls: 3 sets x 10 reps, taking 4–5 seconds to lower each rep
- Rest: 60 seconds between sets
9. Isometric Training
Workout Example:
- Plank: Hold position for 60 seconds, repeat 3 sets
- Wall Sits: Hold position for 45 seconds, repeat 3 sets
- Rest: 60 seconds between sets
10. Cluster Sets
Workout Example:
- Deadlifts: 5 sets of 2 reps each with 15–20 seconds rest between sets
- Rest: 2–3 minutes after each cluster
Additional Proven Advanced Training Methods
11. 8×8 Training (Vince Gironda Method)
- Squats: 8 sets x 8 reps
- Rest: 15–30 seconds between sets
12. FST-7 (Fascia Stretch Training 7)
- Cable Crossovers (Chest Isolation): 7 sets x 8–12 reps
- Rest: 30–45 seconds between sets
13. Y3T (Yoda 3 Training)
Weekly Cycle Example:
- Week 1: Bench Press (6–10 reps), Squats (6–10 reps)
- Week 2: Dumbbell Press (10–14 reps), Leg Press (10–14 reps)
- Week 3: Machine Flyes (15–20+ reps), Leg Extensions (15–20+ reps)
14. German Volume Training (GVT)
- Bench Press: 10 sets x 10 reps at 60% 1RM
- Rest: 60 seconds between sets
15. DC Training (DoggCrapp)
- Incline Bench Press: 1 set rest-pause (8 reps, rest 15 sec, then 2–4 reps, repeat)
- Deep Stretching: Chest stretch hold 60 seconds
16. Mountain Dog Training
- Activation: Cable Row (2 sets x 12–15 reps)
- Heavy: Barbell Row (3 sets x 8 reps)
- Stretch: Dumbbell Pullover (3 sets x 12 reps)
- Pump Finisher: Cable Pulldowns (3 sets x 15 reps)
17. HIT (High-Intensity Training)
- Leg Press: 1–2 sets to absolute failure (12–15 reps)
- Rest: 2–3 minutes
18. PHAT (Power Hypertrophy Adaptive Training)
Weekly Split Example:
- Day 1–2: Heavy compound lifts (Bench, Squat, Deadlift) – 4 sets x 5 reps
- Day 3–5: Hypertrophy-focused workouts – 3 sets x 10–15 reps
19. Myo-Reps
- Dumbbell Shoulder Press:
- Activation Set: 15 reps
- Rest 10–15 sec
- Mini Sets: 3–5 reps each until failure
20. The Meadows Method
- Romanian Deadlifts: 3 sets x 8 reps (slow eccentric)
- Dumbbell Pullovers: 3 sets x 10 reps (deep stretch)
- Leg Press: 3 sets x 10 reps (isometric holds and partial reps)
Key Takeaways
- Advanced techniques boost intensity and prevent plateaus.
- Variety and proper recovery are critical.
- Gradual implementation is essential for safety and effectiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When should advanced methods be used? Use when experiencing plateaus or seeking accelerated progress.
Can beginners use advanced methods? Beginners should master basics first, gradually introducing advanced methods.
How often should advanced methods be implemented? Start 1-2 times weekly, increasing gradually.
Implementing these methods strategically enables significant progress for fitness enthusiasts across Australia.