Pyramid Training Workout using Bodyweight Exercises from John Sifferman

Pyramid training is an uncommon strength training technique that produces excellent results, especially when it comes to increasing training volume in an exercise program. Pyramid training has been around for a long time, and was commonly used by old-time strength greats. It’s too bad it isn’t utilized like it used to be. The way pyramid training works is by starting off at the base, and climbing one more step each time until you reach the top – then you descend back down the pyramid until the bottom. It’s a real challenge because of the total workload, and having to do each repetition with near perfect technique.

In a bodyweight exercise workout circuit, pyramid training works like a charm. Since you are only able to reach a certain point of each pyramid, it is a perfect fit for finding a good target effort rating. We can only ascend up so high, but we can always descend back down (because each set gets easier). This is why the military is also known for using pyramid training, especially with their special forces – it’s low-tech, high payoff, and doesn’t require much equipment when done with the body. Here is a great pyramid training workout using only a pullup bar and floor space:

Pyramid Training Workout Circuit Using Bodyweight Exercises

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Pyramid Training for Pullups with John Sifferman

Pyramid training is a very effective means of increasing your strength and endurance. I have used pyramid training with great success for increasing my pullup numbers. I remember one pyramid training program I did years ago that involved a lot of bodyweight exercise.

It was a military PT program, and I committed myself to it for 12 weeks. When I started, I could do 7 full, military-grade pullups. That means your chin is clearly over the bar every repetition, and your elbows lock at the bottom of EVERY repetition. There is no room for sissy pullups in the Navy, and I didn’t leave any room for them in my pyramid training program. After 12 weeks, I could do 31 pullups in one set, and I attribute my excellent success to pyramid training.

Here is a pyramid training video to help you increase your pullup numbers:

Pyramid Training for Pullups

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