Comparison
Push Pull vs Upper Lower Split
Two-way push/pull compared with upper/lower for four- and six-day training weeks.
Overview
Push/pull groups pressing versus pulling (legs often ride on pull or a dedicated day). Upper/lower groups by body half. Both scale well to four days; six-day versions raise frequency further.
**Push / Pull:** Natural press/pull balance Easy to slot legs onto pull or separate days
**Upper / Lower:** Clear lower-body loading days Popular evidence-based default
**Verdict:** Pick upper/lower if you want dedicated squat/hinge days. Pick push/pull if you prefer organizing by movement pattern and can place legs intelligently.
Weekly schedule
PP— Push / Pull / Push / Pull
- Press emphasis
- Pull + hinge
UL— Upper / Lower × 2
- Torso day
- Leg day
Set and rep guidance
Balance horizontal and vertical presses/pulls. On push/pull, do not neglect quads — program them explicitly.
Progression
Use the same double-progression rules. If knees or lower back fatigue, separate a true lower day instead of burying legs on pull.
Who it's for
Intermediate lifters comparing two popular four-day templates.
FAQ
- Where do legs go on push/pull?
- Commonly on pull days via hinges plus a squat pattern, or as separate days in a 6-day plan.
- Which for shoulders?
- Both work; watch weekly pressing volume either way.
- Beginner friendly?
- Upper/lower is slightly clearer for most beginners.
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