Build More Muscle in Less Time: The Ultimate 4-Day Hypertrophy Split

If you’re ready to build serious muscle without spending every day in the gym, a well-structured 4-day hypertrophy split is one of the most efficient ways to get there. Designed to maximize muscle growth through volume, intensity, and smart recovery, this type of routine is ideal for intermediate to advanced lifters aiming to pack on size and strength — even with a busy schedule.


Why a 4-Day Hypertrophy Split Works

A hypertrophy-focused training split is built around the science of muscle growth: progressive overload, sufficient volume per muscle group, and optimal recovery time. Spreading your workouts over four days allows each muscle group to get targeted attention while ensuring enough rest between sessions to grow.

Compared to full-body or 3-day routines, a 4-day split for hypertrophy offers:

  • Greater training volume per session

  • Enhanced muscle focus and mind-muscle connection

  • More time to recover without sacrificing frequency


Best 4-Day Split for Hypertrophy

There’s no one-size-fits-all routine, but some structures stand out for effectiveness. Here's a classic approach that balances upper and lower body training across the week:

Day 1 – Upper Body Push (Chest, Shoulders, Triceps)

  • Bench Press – 4 sets x 8-12 reps

  • Dumbbell Shoulder Press – 3 sets x 10-12 reps

  • Incline Dumbbell Press – 3 sets x 8-10 reps

  • Cable Lateral Raise – 3 sets x 12-15 reps

  • Overhead Triceps Extension – 3 sets x 10-12 reps

Day 2 – Lower Body (Quads, Glutes, Calves)

  • Barbell Back Squat – 4 sets x 8-10 reps

  • Walking Lunges – 3 sets x 12 steps per leg

  • Leg Press – 3 sets x 10-12 reps

  • Glute Bridges – 3 sets x 12-15 reps

  • Seated Calf Raise – 3 sets x 15-20 reps

Day 3 – Upper Body Pull (Back, Biceps)

  • Pull-Ups – 4 sets to failure

  • Barbell Row – 3 sets x 8-10 reps

  • Lat Pulldown – 3 sets x 10-12 reps

  • Dumbbell Curl – 3 sets x 10-12 reps

  • Face Pulls – 3 sets x 15 reps

Day 4 – Posterior Chain + Arms Focus

  • Romanian Deadlift – 4 sets x 8 reps

  • Hamstring Curl – 3 sets x 12 reps

  • Rear Delt Fly – 3 sets x 12-15 reps

  • Cable Rope Hammer Curl – 3 sets x 12 reps

  • Triceps Pushdown – 3 sets x 12-15 reps


Key Principles for Hypertrophy Success

A 4 day workout split hypertrophy program isn’t just about the exercises — it’s about execution. Keep these principles in mind to get the most out of your routine:

  • Progressive Overload: Gradually increase weights or reps weekly.

  • Recovery: Take rest days seriously. Muscles grow when you rest, not during the workout.

  • Nutrition: Fuel with a high-protein diet and enough calories to support growth.

  • Form First: Prioritize proper technique over heavier loads.


Who Should Use a 4-Day Hypertrophy Program?

This setup is ideal if you:

  • Have 4 consistent days a week to train

  • Want to balance size gains with lifestyle flexibility

  • Are past the beginner stage and need more volume per muscle group

Whether you’re training for aesthetics, performance, or both, this hypertrophy 4-day split delivers efficient gains without the burnout of daily training.


Final Thoughts

If you're looking for the best 4 day split for hypertrophy, it comes down to consistency, intensity, and a plan tailored to your body and goals. Stick with it, track your progress, and your results will speak for themselves.

Reading next

Leave a comment

This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Articles & Guides

View all
M4 vs M7 Smith Machine: The Ultimate Comparison

M4 vs M7 Smith Machine: The Ultimate Comparison

When it comes to Smith Machines, MIKOLO’s M4 and M7 models are two top-tier options that many fitness enthusiasts find themselves choosing between. Both machines promise to elevate your workout ex...

Incline Bench Press - MIKOLO

Is the Incline Bench Press More Challenging Than the Flat Bench Press

For those involved in strength training or bodybuilding, a common query arises: Is the incline bench press harder than the flat bench press? While these two exercises might appear similar at first ...

stability ball - MIKOLO

Strengthen Your Core with the Stability Ball "Stir the Pot" Exercise

When searching for core exercises online, you'll encounter a variety of unusual and impressive routines designed to strengthen your core. However, amidst all these options, it's easy to overlook th...