If you want to get more done in less time while still seeing good results, density training could be the answer. Density training allows you to make significant progress without putting in long hours at the gym. It allows you to complete a substantial workload in a relatively short workout period. Continue reading to find out more!
Table of Contents
What is density training?
Density training is structuring a workout to maximize training volume and intensity within a specific time frame. The primary goal of density training is to complete as many sets and repetitions of an exercise as possible within a set period while maintaining good form and technique. It is often used as a way to get a productive workout in a shorter amount of time, so it is useful if you are short on time or just feel like spending less time working out.
4. Density Training Methods for Calisthenics
While you could just perform density training like a regular workout with shorter rest periods, there are definitely more effective ways to go about it. Here are 4 popular and effective methods you can utilize to add density to your training:
1. Escalating density training (EDT):
Escalating Density Training (EDT) is a highly effective strength and muscle-building workout methodology developed by strength coach Charles Staley. It’s designed to help individuals increase training density, which means performing more work (sets and reps) in a given amount of time.
Here are the key principles and components of Escalating Density Training:
- Exercise Selection: EDT typically focuses on two opposing exercises that target different muscle groups. These exercises are performed in an alternating fashion during the workout.
- Time Blocks: A typical EDT workout is divided into specific time blocks, which can vary in duration based on your fitness level and goals. Common time blocks range from 10 to 20 minutes.
- Work Sets: Within each time block, you perform as many sets as possible (known as “PR zones” or “performance rounds”) of the two selected exercises. A set consists of a predetermined number of repetitions.
- Repetition Range: You start with a moderate number of repetitions per set, often 50 % of your max for each exercise. This number can be adjusted based on your experience and goals.
- Rest Period: After completing a set of one exercise, you immediately switch to the other exercise (opposing movement) without any rest in between. This alternating pattern continues throughout the time block.
- Progression: The key to EDT is progressive overload. As you become more proficient and stronger, you aim to increase the total number of sets (PR zones) or the number of repetitions within the same time frame. This continuous progression is crucial for gains in muscle endurance and hypertrophy.
The competitive aspect of trying to beat your previous performance in each workout can provide motivation and excitement.
2. As Many Reps/Rounds As Possible (Amrap):
“AMRAP” stands for “As Many Rounds (or Repetitions) As Possible.” It is a popular training concept used in various fitness routines, especially in CrossFit and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts. The goal of an AMRAP workout is to complete as many rounds or repetitions of a specified set of exercises within a fixed time frame.
Here’s how an AMRAP workout typically works:
- Exercise Selection: A series of exercises is chosen to create a workout routine. These exercises can target different muscle groups or be full-body movements, depending on the workout’s goal.
- Time Frame: A specific time limit is set for the workout. Common time frames range from 5 minutes to 20 minutes, although it can be longer or shorter based on the workout’s intensity and purpose.
- Repetitions and Rounds: Each exercise has a predetermined number of repetitions to complete for one round. The goal is to complete as many rounds of all the exercises as possible within the given time frame.
- Execution: You start the workout by performing the first exercise for the prescribed number of repetitions. After completing the first exercise, you move immediately to the next exercise and continue until all exercises are completed for one round. You then repeat the circuit of exercises until the time limit expires.
- Rest: In AMRAP workouts, rest periods are typically minimal and occur only when transitioning from one exercise to the next. Resting during the workout clock is discouraged.
- Scoring and Tracking Progress: You track your progress by counting the number of rounds and repetitions you complete during the AMRAP. This score can serve as a benchmark for future workouts and a way to measure improvements.
AMRAP workouts are popular due to their efficiency in providing a high-intensity workout in a short amount of time. They are extremely effective at increasing cardiovascular fitness, muscular endurance, and toughness.
3. Rep based:
Rep-based density training is a training method that combines the concepts of traditional rep-based strength training with the density training approach. In rep-based density training, the focus is on completing a specific number of repetitions with a given weight or resistance, and the goal is to increase the training density over time.
Here’s how rep-based density training typically works:
- Exercise Selection: Choose one or more compound exercises that target the muscle group(s) you want to work on. Compound exercises involve multiple joints and muscle groups and are effective for building strength and muscle.
- Time Frame: Set a specific time frame for your density training session. For example, you might choose a 15-minute or 20-minute block.
- Repetitions: Determine the number of repetitions you want to complete for each of the selected exercise(s). So for example we decide to do 20 reps of pull ups, and then we do sets until we reach 20 reps pull ups in total.
- Sets and Rest: Begin by performing a set of the chosen exercise(s) for the specified number of repetitions. After completing a set, rest for a short period (e.g., 30 to 60 seconds). Then, repeat the set. Continue this pattern, alternating between sets and rest, until you reach the set amount of reps.
- Progression: The goal of rep-based density training is to increase the total number of repetitions or intensity within the same time frame over time. You can do this by gradually reducing the rest intervals, increasing the resistance (weight or resistance band tension), or increasing the number of repetitions per set.
- Tracking: Keep a record of the total number of repetitions completed in each density training session. This allows you to track your progress and make adjustments to your training plan.
Rep-based density training can be very effective for those exercises where you can only do a few reps, this way you can accumulate volume enough to get an effective stimulus.
4. Every Minute on The Minute (Emom):
“EMOM” stands for “Every Minute On the Minute.” It is a popular training format used in various fitness routines, including CrossFit and interval training. EMOM workouts are designed to challenge your strength, endurance, and pacing by performing a specific exercise or set of exercises at the start of each minute and then resting for the remainder of that minute. The cycle repeats for a predetermined number of rounds or a specified duration.
Here’s how an EMOM workout typically works:
- Exercise Selection: Choose one or more exercises that you want to perform during the EMOM workout. These exercises can vary widely and may include strength exercises, cardio movements, or a combination of both.
- Repetitions or Time: Determine the number of repetitions or the amount of time you want to allocate to each exercise within each minute. For example, you might choose to do 10 push-ups or perform a 30-second plank.
- Start: At the beginning of each minute, start performing the chosen exercise(s) for the specified number of repetitions or time.
- Rest: Once you’ve completed the exercise(s) within that minute, you use the remaining time in that minute to rest. Your rest period ends when the next minute begins.
- Repeat: At the start of the next minute, begin the same exercise(s) again. Continue this cycle for a predetermined number of rounds or a specified duration.
- Completion: The workout is considered complete when you’ve finished all the rounds or when you reach the specified workout duration.
Over time, you can increase the difficulty of EMOM workouts by adding more repetitions, increasing the intensity of exercises, and thereby reducing rest intervals between exercises.
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Pros and Cons of Density Training
Pros:
Increased Muscular Endurance: Performing multiple sets with short rest intervals challenges your muscles’ endurance capacity. Over time, this can lead to improved muscular endurance, allowing you to sustain physical activities for longer durations.
Time-Efficient: One of the standout features of density training is its time efficiency. You can get a highly effective workout in a relatively short amount of time, making it ideal if you have limited time to workout in.
Muscle Hypertrophy: Density training can stimulate muscle growth (hypertrophy) due to the cumulative fatigue generated by performing multiple sets with moderate to high repetitions. This makes it a valuable training method for those looking to build muscle mass.
Cons:
Strength and Power: While density training can promote muscular endurance and hypertrophy, it may not be the most effective method for individuals primarily interested in building maximal strength or power. Strength training programs that emphasize heavy resistance, lower rep ranges, and longer rest intervals are typically more effective for building maximal strength.
Risk of Injury: The high intensity and short rest intervals in density training can increase the risk of injury, especially if you compromise on proper form and technique to complete more repetitions or sets. Proper form should always be a priority to avoid injuries.
Risk of Overtraining: Density training is demanding and can lead to overtraining if not properly managed. Overtraining can result in fatigue, decreased performance, and an increased risk of injury. It’s crucial to schedule adequate rest and recovery days between density training sessions and ensure you’re getting enough sleep and proper nutrition.
Final thoughts
In summary, calisthenics density training is a practical and rewarding approach to calisthenics that can help you build strength, endurance, and overall fitness. Whether you’re pursuing bodyweight mastery, functional strength, or a lean physique, density training can be a valuable addition to your fitness routine. Moreover, density training presents an efficient workout alternative in terms of time. It allows you to engage in a demanding and productive workout within a relatively brief timeframe, making it well-suited for individuals with hectic schedules or those facing time constraints.
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Anton has been training calisthenics for many years and has experience coaching calisthenics. As a calisthenics nerd, I enjoy diving deep into various topics related to calisthenics.