Desilifter Workout Plan: BLS-Based Weekly Split for Indian Lifters
Desilifter Workout Plan: BLS Split Tailored for India
If you're a desi lifter trying to follow the Bigger Leaner Stronger (BLS) program by Michael Matthews, but feel lost in the sea of Western-style routines and diets, you're not alone. Indian gyms, schedules, and body types demand a different approach.
This blog breaks down a weekly BLS split, adjusted for:
- Indian gym conditions (non-AC, limited equipment, crowded spaces)
- Metric units (all weights in kg)
- Realistic weekly schedules for working professionals
What is the BLS Workout Split?
The original BLS plan recommends a 5-day workout split focusing on heavy compound lifts and progressive overload:
- Day 1 – Chest & Triceps
- Day 2 – Back & Biceps
- Day 3 – Shoulders
- Day 4 – Legs
- Day 5 – Arms & Core
Each session focuses on 3–4 heavy lifts done for 3–5 sets of 4–6 reps, followed by optional isolation work.
Desilifter-Friendly Adjustments
Most Indian gyms aren't like the ones you see on YouTube. Here's how we adapt:
- Limited Equipment? Focus on dumbbells, barbells, and machines—skip fancy accessories.
- Too Crowded? Shift workouts to early morning (6–7 AM) or late evening (9–10 PM).
- Too Hot? Keep rest between sets shorter, stay hydrated (ORS + water), and wear breathable cotton.
Sample Weekly Split (India-Ready)
Day | Focus | Key Lifts (in kg) Example |
---|---|---|
Monday | Chest + Triceps | Bench Press, Incline DB Press, Dips |
Tuesday | Back + Biceps | Deadlift, Pull-Ups, Barbell Row |
Wednesday | Shoulders | Overhead Press, Lateral Raise, Shrugs |
Thursday | Legs | Squats, Leg Press, Calf Raises |
Friday | Arms + Core | Barbell Curl, Skull Crushers, Planks |
Saturday | Optional Cardio | Incline Walk, Light Jog, or Sports |
Sunday | Rest | Sleep, foam rolling, active recovery |
Tips for Desilifters
- Track Your Progress in Kg: Use a small notebook or Google Sheets to log your reps and weights.
- Don’t Skip Compound Lifts: Prioritize Squats, Deadlifts, Bench, and Overhead Press.
- Deload Every 6–8 Weeks: Take 4–5 days of lighter weights or full rest to recover.
- Don’t Chase the Pump—Chase the Progression: Increase weight or reps weekly.
Conclusion
A BLS workout plan works beautifully for Indian lifters—if customized smartly. Whether you're training in a big city gym in Mumbai or a small-town setup in Bihar, Desilifter-style training is all about adapting the science to your environment.
Lift heavy, stay consistent, and log every set. Jai fitness!