I kid…mostly.

Because today Im considering the 4-2-1 workout trend thats all over TikTok (and other places).

But first, lets define our terms.

What is a 4-2-1 workout?

Well, its actually not a workout.

And its not even a routine, its avague structurefor a routine.

To put it another way, the 4-2-1 is asplit.

A split simply refers to the way you split up your workouts for the week.

Thats what peopleusuallymean by 4-2-1, but I’ll talk about some variations on this theme in a minute.

Is 4-2-1 the best way to split up your routine?

Its important to remember that a split is just a method of organization.

You cant answer that question until you find out what the diet (or routine) contains.

What does a 4-day strength training split look like?

Here are the top results, with my critiques.

That fits the bill, with the 1 day being that full rest day.

Is it a good workout plan?I dont know!

My verdict:This isnt a workout plan, just an ad.

Training Truths

This one is a dude in a ball cap giving us a 4-3-1 split.

Not a typo, those are numbers that add up to eight.

4 days of cardio, 40 minutes a day, any cardio you want.

This can be done on lifting days or non-lifting days.

Does it fit the structure?Not the 4-2-1 we talked about, no.

Is it a good workout plan?Its missing some things, but whats here is not bad!

The 4 days of cardio are a nice addition.

But 4x40 minutes is 160 minutes per week, which neatly fits the150 minute requirement for general health.

My verdict: If this appeals to you, I say go with it.

Id ditch the nutrition guidelines as long as you get areasonable amount of proteinin your diet.

Is it a good workout plan?Sigh.

Its another Ladder ad.

My verdict:Most of the 4-2-1 videos out there seem to be ads for workout apps.