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The #1 Superset Workout To Boost Muscle Growth

Performing two exercises back-to-back with minimal rest is highly effective for muscle growth. A trainer shares the best workout to try.
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When it comes to boosting muscle growth, you can't overlook the effectiveness of classic exercises. While the gym offers a plethora of exercises to enhance muscle size and definition, the tried-and-tested classics truly deliver. So, which superset workout will be your go-to for boosting muscle growth?

Let me tell you a little secret. Without revealing the two exercises yet, these movements are staples in the compound exercise community. Compound exercises are hands down the absolute most potent option for packing on mass. From maximizing muscle activation and challenging core strength and stability to improving functional strength, compound exercises will transform your physique and take your workouts to the next level.

By engaging multiple muscle groups simultaneously, these exercises ensure you get the most out of every rep. They push your body to adapt and grow, leading to significant strength gains and muscle hypertrophy. Plus, the increased hormonal response from performing compound lifts can accelerate your muscle-building progress, helping you achieve your goals faster.

Benefits of Superset Workouts

fit woman sweaty after workout looking in mirror, concept of easy changes to workout for better results
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Superset workouts, where you perform two exercises back-to-back with minimal rest, are highly effective for muscle growth. Here are some key benefits:

  1. Time Efficiency: Supersets save time by reducing rest periods between exercises, allowing you to pack more work into a shorter period.
  2. Increased Intensity: Performing exercises consecutively keeps the intensity high, which can lead to more significant muscle fatigue and growth.
  3. Enhanced Muscle Pump: Supersets promote a greater muscle pump by continuously working the muscles, leading to increased blood flow and nutrient delivery.
  4. Variety and Challenge: Combining different exercises keeps your workouts varied and challenging, preventing plateaus and keeping you motivated.

 

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The #1 Superset Workout to Boost Muscle Growth

This workout pairs two potent compound movements that are staples in strength training: the barbell back squat and the dumbbell bent-over row. These exercises target multiple muscle groups, stimulate muscle hypertrophy, and build functional strength.

Exercise #1: Barbell Back Squat

illustration of barbell back squat
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Target Muscles: Quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, lower back, and core.

The barbell back squat is a powerhouse exercise that targets the entire lower body while engaging the core for stability. This movement is fundamental for building overall strength and muscle mass. The squat is known for its ability to recruit many muscle fibers, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to boost muscle growth.

Position a barbell at shoulder height on a squat rack. Step under the bar, placing it across your upper back (trapezius muscles). Grip the bar firmly with your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. Lift the bar off the rack and take a step back. Position your feet shoulder-width apart, toes slightly pointed outward. Engage your core and keep your chest up. Begin the movement by pushing your hips back and bending your knees, lowering your body as if sitting back into a chair. Keep your back straight and your chest up throughout the descent. Aim to lower until your thighs are at least parallel to the ground. Drive through your heels to push your body back to the starting position. Straighten your legs and fully extend your hips at the top. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Perform three to five sets of 5 to 8 reps. Immediately move into a set of dumbbell bent-over rows.

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Exercise #2: Dumbbell Bent-over Row

dumbbell bent-over rows
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Target Muscles: Upper and middle back (rhomboids, latissimus dorsi), biceps, shoulders, and core.

The dumbbell bent-over row is a fantastic compound exercise that targets the upper and middle back while working the biceps and shoulders. This movement is essential for developing a strong, muscular back and improving upper body strength and posture.

Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding a dumbbell in each hand. Bend your knees slightly and hinge at the hips to lean forward, keeping your back flat and your torso almost parallel to the ground. Let the dumbbells hang at arm's length with your palms facing each other. Engage your core to maintain stability. Pull the dumbbells towards your torso by bending your elbows and squeezing your shoulder blades together. Keep your elbows close to your body and focus on engaging your back muscles. Slowly lower the dumbbells back to the starting position, fully extending your arms. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Perform three to five sets of 8 to 12 reps. Rest for two minutes before beginning the next round of the superset.

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Why These Movements Are The Best Superset Workout for Boosting Muscle Growth

middle-aged man doing barbell back squats
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Combining the barbell back squat and dumbbell bent-over row in a superset workout offers several advantages for muscle growth. These compound movements target major muscle groups, ensuring comprehensive muscle activation and promoting balanced development. The squat works the entire lower body and core, providing a solid foundation and enhancing overall strength. The bent-over row focuses on the upper body, particularly the back and biceps, complementing the lower body development of the squat.

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By performing these exercises back-to-back, you keep the intensity high, challenging your muscles and maximizing growth potential. The barbell back squat engages large muscle groups. It triggers a significant hormonal response, while the dumbbell bent-over row adds variety and targets the upper body, ensuring a full-body workout that stimulates muscle hypertrophy.

Incorporate this superset into your routine to experience the transformative benefits of these classic compound exercises.

Jarrod Nobbe, MA, CSCS
Jarrod Nobbe is a USAW National Coach, Sports Performance Coach, Personal Trainer, and writer, and has been involved in health and fitness for the past 12 years. Read more about Jarrod
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