Max Built BODi Review – Does it Work?
TBD – I am here to press play on every workout to let you know if this new Shaun T program works!
The goal of Max Built is to build max muscle with simple, straightforward strength training. In 9 weeks, Shaun T teaches you how to lift smarter, progressively challenge your muscles, and maximize every rep. MAX BUILT is for anyone who wants to build more muscle with a simple, proven approach to lifting. Each week, you’ll complete five 30-40-minute workouts each week using straightforward exercises, progressive overload, and focused muscle-group splits. Every workout is designed to help you challenge your muscles, build strength, and see measurable progress. Whether you’re new to lifting or looking to rebuild muscle, Shaun T gives you the coaching and motivation to keep forward.
Program Information:
Phase 3: Power & Intensity – hybrid of Phases 1 and 2 for maximum growth
Your supplements and nutrition plays a big role in your MAX BUILT results. And although not required, the right supplements can help you optimize your results and performance. They also give you the nutrients you need that can be hard to get through food alone. Our recommended supplements for this program are:
- Quick Start Guide
- Workout Calendar
- #SweatySelfie Calendar
- Eating Plan “How To” PDFs – for 2B Mindset and Portion Fix
Nutrition is CRITICAL for getting the results you want with your fitness program and the targets need to be aligned with the clean eating system (Nutrition + Portion Fix recommended, but you may need to bump calories for mass gain depending on goals). My current supplements include theP90X Supplement System for maximum results with Shakeology and Beachbar snacks. Be sure to let me know if you would like to join my private support team for daily motivation and accountability, the slight edge, for your success. Check out my TESTIMONIALS! Click JOIN TEAM RAGE with any questions. Let’s do this!
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The Workouts
Phase 1:
Phase 2:
Phase 3:
Back 3
Legs & Glutes 3
Bonus:
10 Minute Bonuses:
The Data Analysis Summary
Coming soon when I complete all of the Max Built workout reviews!!
The Reviews
Arms 1
Lay the groundwork for bigger biceps and triceps by focusing on strength, control, and consistent volume. Short rest periods keep the intensity high while building the foundation for thicker, stronger arms.
Let’s do this! I am pumped for the Max Built program. The sample workout is actually just Arms 1 from Phase 1 vs. a true dedicated sample workout that introduces the program theory and samples movements/discipline from the various phases. That’s fine. Arms 1 is part of the Phase 1 Foundation of Strength, which is actually similar to Shaun T’s Dig Deeper Phase 3 THE BUILD. In this version, he uses 5 blocks at 4 sets of 8 reps for each movement of heavy weight with slow, controlled form. There is a superset for triceps near the end of the workout and Shaun T sometimes mixes in tempo count (e.g., 3-sec down 1-sec up).
There is a short warmup of less than 2 minutes followed by 6 unique exercises. The Arms movements consist of incline curl, dual hammer curls, 1 1/2 wide curls, overhead tricep extension, and incline closed grip press superset with tricep pushups. The workout finishes up with a very short cooldown session.
My heart rate data shows 254 calories burned in 38-min with average and max heart rates of 109 bpm and 152 bpm, respectively, with most of the workout in Zones 1-2. I used 20-50-lb dumbbells in this workout. This was a good routine, but relatively slow pace with a lot of breaks that are certainly reflected in the heart rate profile. Further, the numbers are significantly lower than Shaun T’s Dig Deeper The Build Arms; although similar length, Dig Deeper Arms provided +17 bpm average HR, +7 bpm max HR, +58 calories, and primary heart rate zone 2. This may be attributed to the higher rep, progressive sequence in the Dig Deeper version and challenging burnout block to finish up the workout. That said, Max Built is a great session focused on hitting the biceps first followed by hammering the triceps. As advertised, the movements are basic variations and very effective. I liked the incline curls as well as the tempo superset at the end for incline closed grip press to tricep pushups. My tris were fatigued by the end of the last 4-sec down 4-sec up pushups. This workout could use a better warmup/cooldown, and there appears to be limited “cardio” based on the format of the program. Overall, still great stuff and I am excited to press play on Max Built… JOIN US!!
Chest 1
Build a strong foundation by using challenging weights and controlled reps to develop pressing power and overall chest strength. The high-volume approach and short rest periods keep your muscles working hard to spark new growth from the very first workout.
Chest days are one of my favorites so I was definitely excited to hit up Chest 1 in Max Built. After a short (very short) warmup, Shaun T guides us through 5 blocks of work. Each block is 4 sets at 8 reps. The last block is a superset with 8 reps of two different moves performed without a break between. The movements include bench press, pullover, incline bench fly, incline press, and standing squeeze press to standard pushups. There is a short (even shorter) cooldown to finish up.
My heart rate data shows 319 calories burned in 40-min with average and max heart rates of 118 bpm and 149 bpm, respectively, with most of the workout in Zone 3. I used 30-80-lb dumbbells in this workout. The heart rate numbers are lower than the Chest workout from The Build in Dig Deeper, which was also around 40 minutes in length. I suspect this is because the Dig Deeper version has 5 sets x 8 reps for each exercise. The superset concept at the end of Max Built Chest is similar to the final “dig deeper moment” in Dig Deeper.
I do like Max Built Chest. I felt challenged and appreciate the mix of classic and non-standard variations. The dumbbell pullover was a surprise in Chest since that move usually (and will) be in the Back workout for this program. Shaun T provides good instruction to help you target the chest instead of back via the way you push your elbows IN during reps (vs. out for back). It is very effective and mind-muscle connection helps. The superset with standing squeeze press to pushups at 8 reps each with no break was a good challenge to burnout the chest to finish up.
Other than that, production quality is solid for Max Built. There are limited cast members. There is no music, which is similar to many other recent BODi programs. This is usually a negative for me since I appreciate background music for motivation, but still need to be able to hear the instruction from Shaun T. And, a heads up there is only a short warmup and even shorter 15-sec cooldown. This is not sufficient, especially with the heavy weights focus. As I always say, you could use P90X3 Cold Start or any number of stretch/recovery routines from BODi pre- and post-routine. Great start to the program and I am pumped for more Max Built!!
Bonus Lower Body
Strengthen and sculpt your legs and glutes with a quick but effective session designed to challenge every major lower-body muscle group. Expect efficient, high-impact training that leaves you feeling stronger with every workout.
10 Minute Lower Body is one of the ten bonus 10 minute workouts for Max Built. There is also a longer 25-min Abs routine. I am a big fan of this style of short duration muscle-specific workouts for those busy days in life, or even a great option to stack workouts for an extra challenge. Something is better than nothing… just keep moving! I am often pleased with how far you can actually push toward muscle burnout in a short period of time dependent on the progression of moves and pacing.
Lower Body consists of 4 exercises that are performed for 45-seconds each followed by a short break before the next movement. There are two rounds of this progression. The moves involve goblet squat, Romanian deadlift (RDL), 1 1/2 squat, and dumbbell hip thrust. My heart rate data shows 87 calories burned in 10-min with average and max heart rates of 122 bpm and 146 bpm, respectively, with most of the workout in Zone 3. I used 35-50-lb dumbbells in this workout. You will be tested if you select weights that will challenge you. However, not much new to see here in terms of the actual exercises other than the 1 1/2 squat, which is reminiscent of similar movements from Body Beast BEAST:Cardio. Good stuff overall!
Back 1
Build a stronger, more powerful back by combining challenging weights with high-volume training and minimal rest. This phase develops the strength and stability needed to support bigger lifts and better posture.
Bring on Back 1! So here we have yet another workout with basically no warmup before proceeding to heavy weight progressions. I HIGHLY recommend you get a good warmup before this routine. Again, P90X3 Cold Start is one of many opportunities available. What bothers me the most is Shaun T doesn’t really mention it may be good to get additional warmup. This really needs a disclaimer. Rather, he gives us a short 1-min warmup of alternating knee raises (for back, really?), round back release stretch, and chest openers.
The Back 1 format is similar to Chest 1 with the 5 blocks of moves performed for 4 sets each at 8 reps before moving to the next block. The final block is a superset. The exercises are close grip bent over row, pullover, bent over fly, incline chest supported row, and superset of single arm dead stop row to J row (R then L). My heart rate data shows 300 calories burned in 38-min with average and max heart rates of 117 bpm and 154 bpm, respectively, with most of the workout in Zone 2. I used 20-80-lb dumbbells in this workout. The normalized calorie burn was 7.96 cal/min for Max Built Back 1 vs. 7.31 cal/min for Dig Deeper Back & Abs from Collection 3 The Build. This is not surprising since the Dig Deeper version has the added abs focus.
Back 1 is a GREAT workout. I went fairly heavy today and this one worked me. Although most of the workout was in Zone 2, the ending was BRUTAL. My heart rate spiked to 7 minutes of Zone 4 as I worked through the final superset of dead stop row (80-lbs) to J-row (60-lbs). There are no formal breaks as you continuously transition between right and left side for the 4 total sets. Awesome stuff. Otherwise, I do wish there were some pull-ups in this program. Shaun T mentions in the workout he does personally do pull-ups so I suspect BODi did not want to require any more equipment. Either way, I may stack some at the end for my own pleasure, haha. Bring it!
Shoulders 1
Develop strong, stable shoulders with controlled movements that emphasize power and proper form. The combination of heavier weights and short recovery periods builds the foundation for broader, more resilient shoulders.
Shoulders 1 leverages the standard format for Phase 1 incorporating 5 blocks of movements performed for 4 sets each at 8 reps before moving to the next block. The final block is a superset. The exercises consist of single arm arnold press (right then left), upright row, lateral raise, rear delt raise and superset of front raise to push press.
My heart rate data shows 276 calories burned in 32-min with average and max heart rates of 122 bpm and 155 bpm, respectively, with most of the workout in Zone 3. I used 20-35-lb dumbbells in this workout. These numbers are lower than Dig Deeper Shoulders & Abs, especially max heart rate, although the DD workout is 5 minutes longer in length. The normalized calorie burns are much closer around 9 cals/min. Max Built Shoulders 1 is a great workout my friends. My shoulders are on fire post-workout! As Shaun T says, you do not have to go heavy to get bigger. The movements are intentional and yield a good burn with proper form. This is a shorter workout overall around 32 minutes, but it certainly does the job. I liked the lateral raises with the 3-sec count to lower the weight back to the lower starting position. Tough stuff. Shaun T further adds 10 bonus half reps to finish off the block for lateral raise and rear delt raise. The superset is solid as well. Success! So far I am really enjoying MAX BUILT and I recommend you JOIN US if you have not already with the special promo we have running now for BODi annual access – CLICK HERE and DIG DEEP!
Bonus Abs
Fire up your core with a focused 10-min workout that targets your upper abs, lower abs, obliques, and deep stabilizing muscles. These movements are designed to build strength, improve stability, and help create a stronger, more defined midsection.
This bonus looks to be a great abs routine that can be stacked throughout the week. The session uses alternating exercises that focus on movement followed by static hold to target your balance and core, respectively. There are 4 movements that are performed in succession for 45-sec each with a short break between. There are two rounds. The moves include alternating straight leg twist, low plank, weighted dumbbell reach crunch, and high plank. My heart rate data shows 45 calories burned in 10-min with average and max heart rates of 95 bpm and 109 bpm, respectively, with most of the workout in Zone 1. I used a 15-lb dumbbell in this workout. This is a solid abs/core routine. It does the job. The weighted reach crunch is my favorite move here while the plank variations had me challenged by the end of the 10 minutes. Highly recommended!
Bonus Chest
Maximize your chest training in just 10 minutes with exercises that build strength, increase muscle activation, and deliver an incredible pump. Every set is designed to help you develop a bigger, stronger upper body in less time.
I was excited to press play on 10 Min Max Built Chest. There are 4 exercises performed for 45-sec each similar to the other 10 minute bonus workouts. There is a short break between moves before repeating the entire sequence for a second round. Form and proper weight selection is key in this routine with more focus on muscular endurance at lower weight to experience the burn. The exercises consist of bench press, punch press, push-ups, and dumbbell fly. My heart rate data shows 80 calories burned in 11-min with average and max heart rates of 113 bpm and 140 bpm, respectively, with most of the workout in Zone 2. I used 30-40-lb dumbbells in this workout. I loved this chest burner! Punch press was tough even at 30-lb DBs given the progression of moves. I can see this workout as a great stack to the end of other longer chest routines to achieve the ultimate burnout. I had nothing left in my chest by the end!
Bonus Arms
Get a quick but effective arm workout that targets both your biceps and triceps for maximum efficiency. Short rest periods and focused exercises create an intense pump while helping build stronger, more defined arms in just 10 minutes.
Similar to the other 10 Min Max Built sessions, Arms targets muscular endurance at higher reps with lower/medium weight. There is 45-sec per move with 4 variations performed in succession with short breaks between. The entire block is repeated for a second round. The movements involve seated hammer curls, tricep pushups, incline dumbbell curl, and seated overhead tricep extension. My heart rate data shows 72 calories burned in 10-min with average and max heart rates of 110 bpm and 148 bpm, respectively, with most of the workout in Zone 2. I used 25-30-lb dumbbells in this workout. These numbers are actually significant for a 10 minute arms workout! I pushed hard on the weights while also hitting all tricep pushups from my toes vs. knees for an extra challenge. The incline curls were a killer burn at 25-lb DBs for 45-sec while making sure the arms were straight (bicep lengthened) at the bottom of each rep. Of course I enjoyed the hammer curls. The key with all exercises is to be mindful of activating the target muscles with each rep. Success!
Legs and Glutes 1
Build lower-body strength from the ground up with challenging weights, controlled reps, and high-volume training. The combination of intensity and short rest periods develops powerful legs while preparing you for even greater gains ahead.
To be honest, I wasn’t exactly looking forward to Legs & Glutes today! I loaded up on my pre-workout and got ready to push hard with more focus. Similar to the other Phase 1 routines, there are 5 blocks of work with the final block a superset (two moves back-to-back). You hit all 4 sets of 8 reps for each movement before moving to the next block. The blocks include Romanian deadlift, alternating squat pull, Bulgarian split squat, butterfly glute bridge, and suitcase squat superset with pulse squat.
My heart rate data shows 254 calories burned in 37-min with average and max heart rates of 110 bpm and 143 bpm, respectively, with most of the workout in Zone 2. I used 30-60-lb dumbbells in this workout. Although the numbers are generally comparable to other Phase 1 Max Built routines, the heart rate data is significantly lower than Dig Deeper “Legs” from Collection 3, which ultimately ended up being one of the most difficult workouts for me in Shaun T’s entire Dig Deeper program. The DD version is longer and more intense yielding +298 cals, +38 bpm ave. HR, +34 bpm max HR, and +4 normalized cal/min in +14 minutes. I am discovering thus far that Phase 1 Max Built is less demanding than Dig Deeper, although it is still an excellent program in many new ways.
There are a lot of squats in this workout! Bulgarian split squat sets were the most challenging for me, as expected, especially with slow count down for reps (lots of shaking!). I always have to be particularly mindful of my form to avoid compromising my knees and lower back. The butterfly glute bridge is an effective variation while the superset of suitcase squat to pulse squat provided some killer burnout at the end; Shaun T adds some extra reps plus iso holds in the last set! Overall, my legs were on fire after Legs & Glutes 1. Success!
Chest 2
This workout increases volume and time under tension to help create a fuller, thicker chest while delivering an incredible muscle pump. Every set is designed to challenge your endurance and maximize muscle-building potential.
I was pumped to see how Chest 2 compares to Chest 1 in Max Built. It turns out Phase 2 focuses on muscle density development with controlled activation and engagement of the targeted muscle groups. As such, the format shifts to 4 sets of 12 reps to enhance volume to the muscles. There are 5 blocks with the final block again leveraging a superset. The blocks consist of incline press, flat bench fly, reverse grip press, bench press with pulse, and dual raise superset with decline pushups.
My heart rate data shows 286 calories burned in 36-min with average and max heart rates of 117 bpm and 148 bpm, respectively, with most of the workout in Zone 2. I used 30-40-lb dumbbells in this workout. Chest 2 provided me a lower calorie burn at reduced workout zones compared to Max Built Chest 1 (even though ave/max HRs are in the same range), which may be partly attributed to the lower weights at higher reps. The workout is 4-min shorter as well. However, I suspect I will be able to increase dumbbell weights next time. My chest had a HUGE pump after Chest 2. I was shocked, to be honest. This is a fantastic routine that hits the chest muscles differently than many other chest workouts. I found the reverse grip press difficult, even at 30-lb DBs. The press with pulses are a great approach for stimulating burnout while stacking the dual raises (similar to incline cable fly) with decline pushups is a brutal way to finish up. Shaun T then throws in bonus decline pushup sets of 12-6-3 sets each. Truly awesome stuff. Chest 2 is now on my list of favorites!
Arms 2
Increase the burn and the pump as higher reps drive blood into the muscles and create the ideal environment for growth. This workout is designed to build arm size while improving muscular endurance and definition.
Bring on Arms 2! I love arm workouts. Similar to Chest 2, there are 5 blocks (final block superset of two moves) at 4 sets of 12 reps per main block. The exercises involve dual curls, cross body hammer curls, close grip curls, overhead tricep extension, and bent over tricep extension superset with tricep dips. My heart rate data shows 254 calories burned in 36-min with average and max heart rates of 111 bpm and 141 bpm, respectively, with most of the workout in Zones 2-3. I used 20-40-lb dumbbells in this workout. The heart rates are fairly comparable to Max Built Arms 1 in Phase 1.
This is another great workout from Shaun T. I am actually enjoying these Phase 2 workouts more than Phase 1. Some really challenging sets and burnout finishers. The close grip curls are an interesting new move in block 3 that work your chest/back as much as biceps leading to a significant burn if you select a challenging weight. Cross body hammer curls combine two of my favorite moves in one motion. They are definitely tough right after 48 reps of dual curls! And, the bent over tricep extension superset with bench tricep dips is crazy. This is primarily because Shaun T uses slow tempo count for the progressive tricep sets; 1-sec down/up, 2-sec down/up, 4-sec down/up, and 24 1-sec down/up reps to finish. The 4-sec down and 4-sec up tricep set for 12 total reps is insane (for everyone). I had nothing left by the end, which seems to be a theme for Phase 2 Max Built.
Back 2
Longer sets and increased volume help create width, thickness, and density throughout the back while maximizing muscle activation. Expect a serious pump that supports both muscle growth and improved endurance.
Bring on the next challenge in Phase 2! I am loving the volume and burn I am achieving in the muscles with the density development focus. The format for Back 2 stays with the 4 sets of 12 reps to enhance volume to the muscles. There are 5 blocks with the final block again leveraging a superset. The blocks consist of single arm rows, pullover, dual hip flys, chest supported fly, underhand row superset with back pulls.
My heart rate data shows 372 calories burned in 39-min with average and max heart rates of 127 bpm and 162 bpm, respectively, with most of the workout in Zone 3. I used 15-80-lb dumbbells in this workout. Okay, hey, this workout is a rocker! The heart rate numbers far exceed my data for Phase 1 Back 1. This session moves fast and the higher reps kept my heart rate elevated throughout with a significant spike into the red zone with the final superset (no breaks last two sets!). The normalized calorie burn is approx. 9.5 cal/min, which is even higher than the Dig Deeper Back versions. I like how Shaun T instructs you to pause at the top of the single arm row movements. This is very difficult at high weight and reps. The dual hip flys are familiar from his other programs, although very effective in the block sequence. The chest supported fly is low weight and works the back details while the superset provides a little cardio push to finish up as your back burns out with no breaks. The back pulls really hit your glutes and hamstrings as well. As always, I wish there were pull-ups! Overall, Phase 2 appears to be a combination of disciplines from Phases 1 and 3. Very challenging indeed!
Bonus Upper Body
In just 10 minutes, this fast-paced workout targets your chest, back, shoulders, and arms to build strength and muscle without wasting time. Short rest periods and focused movements keep the intensity high for maximum results.
As usual, this 10 Min Max Built routine comprises 4 movements at 45-sec per move with a short break between. The entire round of 4 moves is repeated twice. The exercises for Upper Body target all of the muscle groups including incline twisting chest press (chest), hip flys (back), seated hammer curl to press (biceps/shoulders), and single arm tricep extension. My heart rate data shows 101 calories burned in 11-min with average and max heart rates of 126 bpm and 170 bpm, respectively, with most of the workout in Zone 4. I used 20-35-lb dumbbells in this workout. Woah, this short workout is a rocker! I hit 170 bpm max HR by the end with the highest percentage time in the elevated workout zone to achieve approx. 9 normalized cals/min. Good stuff. The twisting incline chest press was effective and hammer curl to press my favorite compound movement. Work continues… I hope you are enjoying my Max Built workout reviews. Click here to JOIN US, if you are not already on the team!!
Shoulders 2
This workout shifts the focus toward adding size and roundness through higher volume and increased time under tension. The result is a fuller shoulder appearance and improved muscular endurance.
Shoulders 2 follows the same format as the other Phase 2 higher volume routines; 4 sets of 12 reps for 5 blocks with the final block again leveraging a superset. The exercises in Shoulders 2 involve dual arnold press, front raise, shoulder press, lateral raise, and upright row superset with rear dent fly. My heart rate data shows 294 calories burned in 31-min with average and max heart rates of 129 bpm and 162 bpm, respectively, with most of the workout in Zone 3. I used 15-30-lb dumbbells in this workout. Didn’t need to go heavy on this one as we focus on the “details” of the shoulder muscles. The heart rate numbers are comparable to Phase 1 Shoulders 1. This is tough workout if you select challenging weight with proper form. It is okay to drop weight to maintain form, of course. I liked the new variation of front raise. It really helps shape/round the shoulders vs. a standard front raise. My heart rate ramped significantly toward the end, as usual in these Phase 2 routines, during the superset with limited breaks between sets. Overall, Shoulders 2 is an excellent workout!
Legs and Glutes 2
Increase training volume to target every major muscle in your lower body and create lasting muscle growth. Longer sets and continuous effort produce the deep burn and pump that help build stronger, denser legs.
I fully expected this workout to be a rocker, my friends. And, this is now confirmed. Legs & Glutes 2 leverages the format of all other Phase 2 routines with the 5 blocks of moves at 4 sets each of 12 reps (last block is a superset). The movements this time consist of sumo squat, single leg kickstand romanian deadlift, dead stop squat pulls, elevated glute bridge, and goblet bench squat superset with goblet deep squat.
My heart rate data shows 397 calories burned in 38-min with average and max heart rates of 135 bpm and 168 bpm, respectively, with most of the workout in Zones 4-5. I used 35-80-lb dumbbells in this workout. Again, this was a very challenging workout for me. Push yourself with the weights, but be mindful of form and safety. The heart rate numbers are significantly higher than Phase 1 Legs & Glutes 1, especially calories (+143 cals) and max HR (+25 bpm). The normalized calorie burn was 10.3 cals/min. Impressive! Phase 2 really amped up the intensity from my perspective with more cardio endurance. This was evident during the spike to upper workout zones for single leg kickstand romanian deadlifts and dead stop squat pulls at heavy weight. The elevated glute bridge had my glute muscles and hamstrings on fire while the superset finisher ended the session in the highest heart rate zones again. This may be the most difficult workout thus far for me in Max Built through Phases 1 and 2. Let’s see what Phase 3 brings. Keep digging deep my friends!
Bonus Chest and Back
Train two of your biggest muscle groups together for a balanced upper-body workout that builds both pushing and pulling strength. By alternating between chest and back exercises, you’ll maximize efficiency while creating an intense muscle-building stimulus.
Chest & Back targets muscular endurance at higher reps with lower/medium weight similar to the other 10 Min Max Built bonuses. There is 45-sec per move with 4 variations performed in succession with short breaks between. The entire block is repeated for a second round. The exercises include incline bench press, bent over rows, alternating cross body raises, and upright row pulls. My heart rate data shows 39 calories burned in 10-min with average and max heart rates of 91 bpm and 138 bpm, respectively, with most of the workout in Zone 1. I used 30-40-lb dumbbells in this workout. This is a solid bonus workout; not a big calorie burn at elevated heart rate even though I pushed hard. Nothing new here in terms of the actual bodybuilding moves utilized, but the way Shaun T stacks the moves with limited breaks does the job. It is interesting how he changes the focus of a standard shoulders move – upright rows – to hit the upper back muscles (still mostly targeted my shoulders). Overall, good stuff!
Arms 3
Start with high-rep sets to completely fatigue your arms before finishing with heavier loads that force every muscle fiber to contribute. The result is an intense workout built to maximize growth and leave your arms feeling fully worked.
Here we go, bring on Phase 3 – “Maximum Growth”! The workout format for Phase 3 is really interesting. There are 5 blocks again with the last block a superset, however, the four sets begin with 2 sets of 18 reps at lighter weight for warmup followed by 2 sets at heavy weight for 8 reps each. The movements involve bicep curls, skull crushers, M curls, tricep dips, and reciprocating hammer curls superset with incline/standard/decline push-ups.
My heart rate data shows 230 calories burned in 33-min with average and max heart rates of 110 bpm and 148 bpm, respectively, with most of the workout in Zone 2. I used 20-30-lb dumbbells in this workout. These numbers are very similar to Phases 1 and 2 for Arms in Max Built. With that said, the routine is completely different and I really like how the early sets at high reps provide some burn heading into muscle fatigue in the later sets. Shaun T throws in some extra reps to ultimate failure in some sets. I am confident this overall approach will help trigger the muscle growth mechanisms. My arms were on fire by the end of Arms 3. The M Curls were especially challenging, whether it was the higher reps early sets or higher weight later sets. The last set of tricep dips used a tempo 4 count down and 4 count up approach, which was brutal, followed by max reps to failure. Similarly, the last superset round of push-ups included decline (8), standard (8), and incline (18) variations! Phase 3 is a rocker. We got this!!
Chest 3
Get ready to push your chest to the limit with a combination of high-rep fatigue and heavier finishing sets. This intensity-driven workout recruits every muscle fiber possible to help maximize size and break through plateaus.
I was pumped for this Phase 3 chest workout today! As usual, the format involves 5 blocks of exercises where the last block is a superset. There are 4 sets per block of 18/18/8/8 repetitions per set. The moves consist of standard push-ups, pullover, incline press, flat bench fly, and rotating press superset with crush press. My heart rate data shows 275 calories burned in 36-min with average and max heart rates of 114 bpm and 136 bpm, respectively, with most of the workout in Zones 2-3. I used 20-60-lb dumbbells in this workout. The heart rate numbers are nearly identical to Chest 2. Overall, awesome workout! The pace was relatively fast compared to some of the other routines. My chest was on fire by the end. The first two sets of 18 for each movement really pushed my endurance providing a nice burn leading into the heavier lifts for growth. Shaun T works in slow tempo count for the last two sets of pushups at 3 sec down/1 sec up and 4 sec down/4 sec up. The key to the pullover move in the second block is to keep your elbows in so you work your chest. The incline press series was brutal for me. The rotating press to crush press superset is killer if you don’t set down the weight between sets. Chest 3 may be my favorite chest workout of the program as it is combines concepts from both Chest 1 and Chest 2. Very effective!
Bonus Abs 25 Min
Build a stronger core with a targeted workout designed to improve stability, strength, and overall athletic performance. By challenging your entire midsection through controlled movements and progressive intensity, this workout helps develop the foundation needed to support every lift and movement throughout the program.
This 25-min bonus Abs routine comprises 5 blocks of ab/core movements. Each block is completed in succession before moving to the next block; there are 3 sets per move at approx. 12 reps per set. There are several weighted variations. The blocks include cross body V-ups, Russian twists, low plank spider crawl, 90 degree pullover, and high plank mountain climbers (24 reps) superset with bicycles (24 reps). My heart rate data shows 172 calories burned in 24-min with average and max heart rates of 110 bpm and 140 bpm, respectively, with most of the workout in Zone 2. I used 15-20-lb dumbbells in this workout. This workout was a lot more challenging than I anticipated. The first block alone had my core on fire with the weighted V-ups. I had to be careful to protect my lower back. You do not need much weight to be effective. Shaun T then adds extra reps to the last block of Russian twists (40 reps). I found the low plank spider crawl challenging since there were essentially no breaks while the 90 degree pullover worked my back and core. Finally, the superset series looks relatively easy on paper, but trust me it is difficult in the later sets since there are no breaks during the entire 3-set sequence. This is where my heart rate spiked. This is a great abs/core routine to stack in your schedule!
Bonus Back
Build a stronger, wider back with targeted movements that improve posture, increase pulling power, and support overall muscle growth.
The 10 Minute Back bonus continues to target muscular endurance at higher reps with lower/medium weight similar to the other 10 Min Max Built bonuses. There is 45-sec per move with 4 variations performed in succession with short breaks between. The entire block is repeated for a second round. The exercises consist of bent over dead stop pull (right side round 1 and left side round 2), pullover, chest supported row, and rear delt fly. My heart rate data shows 89 calories burned in 10-min with average and max heart rates of 123 bpm and 149 bpm, respectively, with most of the workout in Zones 2-3. I used 15-60-lb dumbbells in this workout. Although short, this version of Back quickly ramped my heart rate with elevated rates throughout. It is a dynamic, fast pace workout. Nothing really new here in terms of the actual exercises, however, the progression and sequence of moves drives the back muscles to failure by the end, which is good. Simple, but effective.
Shoulders 3
Push your shoulders through high-rep fatigue before finishing with heavier sets that recruit every available muscle fiber. This challenging approach is designed to maximize growth while creating an incredible pump.
Shoulders 3 leverages the standard format for Phase 3 of 5 blocks in progressive overload reps over 4 sets of 18, 18, 8, and 8. The last block is a superset. The exercises involve upright row, bent over rear delt fly, shoulder press, front raise, and lateral raise superset with Arnold press. My heart rate data shows 304 calories burned in 32-min with average and max heart rates of 129 bpm and 161 bpm, respectively, with most of the workout in Zone 4. I used 15-40-lb dumbbells in this workout. The heart rate data is aligned with my results from Shoulders 1 and 2 for Max Built. They are all powerful workouts in different ways. The higher rep initial sets for Shoulders 3 really helped fatigue my shoulders before heading into the heavy growth lifts of 8 reps. I found the superset at the end most challenging, going as heavy as I could on the Arnold while maintaining good form for all sets. I was glad to see the rear delt fly in this routine since I find that variation particularly effective in working the overall shoulder caps. As always, I love front raises. This was a fun workout for me. RAGE ON!
Bonus Full Body Sculpt
Designed to increase muscle tone and improve overall definition, this workout keeps you moving with a steady pace and minimal rest.
As usual, the 10-min Full Body Sculpt bonus focuses on 4 moves at 45-sec per move in sequence (short breaks between exercises) before repeating the progression for a second round. The movements include goblet squats, tricep dips, seated knee taps, and dual lateral raise. My heart rate data shows 89 calories burned in 10-min with average and max heart rates of 120 bpm and 145 bpm, respectively, with most of the workout in Zone 3. I used 20-50-lb dumbbells in this workout. The heart rate numbers are in the range of the other 10-Min Max Built routines. This workout is okay. Nothing special, but it does get the blood pumping and hits a number of muscle groups; legs, triceps, abs/core, and shoulders. Not a bad choice to stack with Max Built or other programs.
Bonus Full Body Strength
This total-body workout uses classic bodybuilding exercises to build strength from head to toe while improving overall performance.
As usual with the 10 Min Max Built bonuses, there are 4 exercises performed for 45-sec each with a short break between moves before repeating the entire sequence for a second round. The exercises consist of squat to Arnold press, single leg RDL, bench shoulder tap push-ups, and bench dumbbell rows. My heart rate data shows 79 calories burned in 10-min with average and max heart rates of 115 bpm and 145 bpm, respectively, with most of the workout in Zones 3-4. I used 20-50-lb dumbbells in this workout. Loved this routine. The squat to Arnold press helped ramp heart rate, especially the second set once warmed up, and the bench dumbbell rows were tough at heavy weight for 45-sec sets. These 10 Min bonuses move fast!
Bonus Shoulders
Strengthen and shape your shoulders with a focused workout that develops size, stability, and definition.
Here we go, the last 10 minute bonus remaining for my Max Built review – Shoulders! There are 4 exercises performed for 45-sec each with a short break between moves before repeating the entire sequence for a second round. There is a surprise bonus move at the end. The exercises are Arnold press, single arm lateral raises, alternating front raises, and rear delt raise. The bonus move is alternating push press. My heart rate data shows 89 calories burned in 10-min with average and max heart rates of 123 bpm and 146 bpm, respectively, with most of the workout in Zone 3. I used 20-lb dumbbells in this workout. I could have gone heavier on many of the movements but opted for slow, controlled motion this time. I had a good muscle burn going in this routine and found it very effective for only 10 minutes. It is now on my list of workouts to stack on shoulder days or when I am limited on time.
Nutrition is CRITICAL for getting the results you want with your fitness program and the targets need to be aligned with the clean eating system (Nutrition + Portion Fix recommended, but you may need to bump calories for mass gain depending on goals). My current supplements include the P90X Supplement System for maximum results with Shakeology and Beachbar snacks. Be sure to let me know if you would like to join my private support team for daily motivation and accountability, the slight edge, for your success. Check out my TESTIMONIALS! Click JOIN TEAM RAGE with any questions. Let’s do this!
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Ready to see your review of the entire program.
Right on, Bill! I am excited for this one. My chest is already sore from Chest 1 yesterday. Are you planning to do Max Built? Have a great day and keep up the good work!!
I’m towards the end of your Beast/Transform20 hybrid.
Maybe after.
Congrats man!