The “3-2-8” Method blew up on TikTok for a reason – it’s a smart way to boost your health, drop body fat and build strength you can feel. By mixing strength training with barre and Pilates-inspired moves, it balances muscle-building with fat-burning in an effective (and fun) way. As a certified personal trainer, I’m all in on this workout trend, which is why I put together a free 2-week workout plan so you can give it a try for yourself.
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If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok or the latest fitness trends, chances are you’ve heard of the 3-2-8 Method. And unlike many trends that come and go, this one holds up. The 3-2-8 plan is a simple but powerful way to structure your workouts so you can build muscle, improve core strength and stay consistent with daily movement.
Here’s how it works: Each week you complete 3 strength training workouts, 2 barre or Pilates-inspired sessions, and aim for 8,000 steps a day (roughly 3.5 miles). This structure balances resistance training with low-impact conditioning while keeping you accountable for daily activity.
So, what does it do for your body – and does it work? The short answer is, yes. Strength training 3 times a week is both realistic and effective for building lean muscle, boosting metabolism and improving bone health. As a former barre instructor, I can tell you that adding in 2 days of barre or Pilates provides the perfect complement: It strengthens your core muscles, enhances posture, increases flexibility and improves joint stability. Pair that with a daily step goal, and you’re supporting overall cardiovascular health, blood sugar regulation and active recovery between tougher workouts.
The beauty of the 3-2-8 Method is its balance. You’re not overloading your body with high-intensity workouts every day, but you’re still moving in meaningful ways that drive results. A Pilates weight lifting split is a well-rounded, sustainable approach that helps prevent burnout, keeps workouts enjoyable and supports long-term fitness goals.
As a personal trainer with over a decade of experience, I’m selective about which fitness trends I recommend, but the 3-2-8 Method earns a spot on my list. This exercise routine is effective because it’s structured enough to deliver results, yet flexible enough to adapt to different fitness levels and lifestyles. Whether you’re new to working out or looking to add variety to your routine, this plan helps you hit all the major pillars of fitness: strength, mobility, endurance and recovery.
That’s why I created a free 2-week 3-2-8 workout plan, complete with daily guided videos you can follow at home or in the gym. Whether you’re building consistency or looking to elevate your workouts, this plan gives you the structure and support to start seeing the benefits of the 3-2-8 Method firsthand.

“I loooooved the 3-2-8 plan. I felt like I was able to keep the momentum going each of the 5 days while still allowing my body to rest from some of the full strength workouts with the Pilates/barre variation. Then I could do what my body needed on the weekend! Love love love.”
— Elise


A Set of Dumbbells (DISCOUNT CODE: NML5). Most of the daily workouts require a set of dumbbells. Each weight training workout will have a recommended dumbbell weight, usually between 8-20 pounds. You want a weight heavy enough that your last few reps are a struggle, but you are still able to complete the workout with good form.
Optional Exercise Equipment:
Activity Tracker/Smart Watch. Helpful for tracking steps throughout the day.
Mini Loop Resistance Band (DISCOUNT CODE: NML). You can add a resistance band to some workouts to increase the intensity.
Pilates Ball. I love this for increasing inner thigh and core engagement. Sub a throw pillow or kids squishy ball if you don’t have one.
Workouts are 25-40 minutes a day, 5 days per week. You can always take more rest days as needed.
The 3-2-8 method also includes a goal of 8,000 steps per day. This step goal includes all the steps you take during the day, whether it’s just moving around your house or taking a dedicated walk.
If you’re reducing workout days to accommodate a running schedule or make this plan beginner friendly, I recommend narrowing it down to 3 days of workouts, focusing on:
Intermediate to advanced, with modifications offered for all fitness levels in the daily workout videos.
If you’re looking for a full body workout plan for beginners, follow my Beginner Workout Plan.
FREE! No sign up needed, this is a FREE Workout Plan.
The combination of 3 strength workouts, 2 Pilates or barre sessions, and 8,000 steps a day can be a well-rounded routine that supports hormone balance, improves insulin sensitivity and helps with weight management, all of which may benefit women with PCOS. The mix of resistance training, low-impact movement and daily activity is great for overall health. Still, there’s limited research proving this method is better than other exercise plans for PCOS specifically. That said, regular movement – especially combining strength and cardio – is recommended, and the best workout is one you enjoy and can stick with long term. If you’re managing PCOS or other health conditions, I’d suggest checking in with your doctor first to find what’s safest and most effective for you.
For beginners, it’s important to start any workout schedule gradually and focus on proper form. If you’re a beginner, you can scale this method of training. I recommend aiming to complete 1 upper-body strength workout, 1 lower-body strength workout and 1 barre or Pilates workout each week. If 8,000 steps a day is not doable, set a goal that’s realistic for you.
The 3-2-8 Method can support weight loss by building muscle, boosting metabolism and keeping you active in a sustainable way. Strength training helps increase muscle mass (which burns more calories at rest), while Pilates, barre and walking add calorie burn, improve mobility and support overall health. Of course, exercise is just one part of the equation. A balanced diet and consistency are key for lasting results. Everyone’s body responds differently, but this method offers a well-rounded, approachable framework that many people find effective.
It’s unlikely that the 3-2-8 Program would cause you to overtrain. This program combines different types of workouts, and you’re typically doing 30-minute strength training sessions each day. Overtraining generally requires longer, more rigorous workouts. If you are getting adequate sleep and nutrition, you shouldn’t worry about overtraining following this method. That said, it’s important to pay attention to your body and adjust as needed. You can take more rest days to prevent burnout.
Ultimately, I believe that the best workout method is one you’ll actually follow. The best workout routine will depend on your individual goals, preferences and fitness levels. However, a balanced approach incorporating cardio, strength training and mobility work is a great place to start. Keep in mind that consistency is important in maintaining overall health and fitness, so you should find enjoyable activities that will keep you coming back. If you enjoy a dumbbell Pilates workout routine, continue to train that way.


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I so appreciated this workout I just finished day four. I hurt my back after being sick in bed for 4 days and this workout is helping me get back on track with working out and my whole body just feels looser. And even emotionally I feel happier. I am not yet able to use 15 lb weights. But I will do it again and try to load up more next time. I appreciate having a program where I don’t have to think about what to do next. Thank you so much Lindsay and the NML team.
Love these workouts. I’m not a fan of weight training, counting reps and sets as I find this tedious. Love that these are 30-50 seconds of work which if I chose the correct weight brought me to failure. These workouts are never boring and the 20 minutes goes by so fast. I’m definitely seeing results after doing the entire Strong20 4 times. I’m moving on to Stronger25. Thank you so much Lindsay! Ps I also love that you have devotionals, I just found them and will definitely be using those too. God Bless you and keep you Lindsay.
I loved the 20 minute workouts. They fit well into my schedule during the school year having less free time. I felt challenged and like I was able to build muscle with the repeated, challenging exercises. I also liked the mobility in a longer warmup. And, as always, the education during the workouts is appreciated and valuable. Thanks for another great program!
I’m now heading into my third trimester and have been following the 1st and 2nd workouts from this pregnancy program, and I absolutely love them. What I appreciate most is the variety. There’s a workout to match whatever mood I’m in that day, with different lengths and different styles to choose from. It makes it so much easier to stay consistent throughout pregnancy. I cannot thank you enough for this!
I had been feeling burnt out with recent workouts and needed a change. I recently completed the Strong 20 program and it was so fun, yet challenging. I loved that I could fit it into my busy schedule as a full-time working mom of 3. I am going to start the Stronger 25 next. Love your positivity and the pace of the workouts!
I cannot describe how grateful I am to have found these postpartum workouts. I not only feel like I have found a trainer, but a much-needed tribe member on the other side of the screen.
I really appreciate Lindsey’s dedication and how she brings her real self to each workout, since being a mom of three small kids can feel so lonely. She is great company and makes it much easier. Thank you!
I have been really enjoying Max 20! Unfortunately joining the app to access the additional week of workouts isn’t in my budget at the moment, but I love the 10 days that are available for free. I am on my 4th week(day 7) of doing this program and I can see myself repeating the 10 day program throughout the summer. My strength has improved since beginning this program on 6/1 and I would even say this is my favorite NML program I’ve tried so far.
Response from Nourish, Move, Love
Thank you for sweating with us! We’re so glad you’re enjoying Max 20. Keep up the great work!!
I am 64 and still working so it has been hard to get to the gym. I love these short,effective workouts and modifications. My adult daughter is following along and we send each other sweaty selfies to encourage each other haha. Thank you so much for providing this resource for free Lindsey.
This is the first program I’ve been excited to complete in a long time! I was feeling burnt out by weight training and needed something different for little bit that’s also effective. This is perfect! I notice my range of motion improving and it also provides a good refresher on proper form without the added weights. I love Lindsey’s enthusiasm and that my young daughter hears her encouragement and joins me and cheers me on. I’m excited to dive into her other programs as well!
I want to sincerely thank you, Lindsey Bromgren, from the bottom of my heart for all the content you create.
I’m here to express how grateful I am for your work. Before I found you, I was already training, but I felt like I was missing something more structured and motivating for this phase of my life.
I had been training intensely before pregnancy, but during pregnancy I reduced the intensity. Now, in the postpartum period, I’m getting back into it with full commitment.
I found you about 1 month and 2 weeks ago, and I’m about to complete 3 weeks in your postpartum program. I’m already repeating the program for the second time, so technically I’m in my third week — and I’m also combining it with your diastasis program.
It has been an incredible experience.
During this time, I’ve already lost 22 lbs out of the 35 lbs I gained during pregnancy, just 4 months postpartum, and I’m almost back to my pre-pregnancy weight.
More importantly, training with your program has been extremely motivating and consistent for me. I feel stronger, more confident, and very supported throughout this journey.
Thank you so much — I truly needed to express my gratitude for this.
I am getting back into shape! I am premenopausal, overweight, and lazy. And you inspired me to move. I just started the 30-day beginner workout in conjunction with a good diet and walking workout. I am feeling great and can’t wait for more!
I was unsure where to start in my workout journey at 6 weeks postpartum with my second baby. I did not prioritize exercise after having my first baby just 2.5 years ago so I knew I needed a specific program for postpartum. It has helped me so much! I feel so much stronger and confident. I plan on continuing a new NML program next!
Lindsey is a great instructor. She has great energy and has great workout plans. I love how she keeps it real, she doesn’t pretend to be perfect and lets you know when she is feeling the burn and struggles right along with you. Her co-instructors are wonderful too. I love how they do the modified version of the exercise, which is the version I have to use about half the time.
Day 2 arm day! Wow! Seemed easy when I started and now my arms are burning. Grateful for a good 20 mins!
I have been doing NML workouts for over a year now and find the variety and time limit very doable for this extremely busy time in my life. As someone who has done every single program NML has, getting a new one in time for summer is a dream.
I love this program and the ease of turning on the tv and getting it done. I love that Lindsey is encouraging, knowledgeable, and has put together such a well thought out plan. I’ve been going for a few months and I’ve really seen improvements . Thank you NML!
I love these short effective workouts. I’m older(56) and longer workouts are very challenging for me. But Max 20 is exactly what I need and love. Going heavy and building strength. All part of my nursing home prevention program and I love you are a part of it too.
I started weight training again in January after taking a break due to life and I’m so glad I came back to what got me going again. I’ve loved these workouts for years and after doing this program I have never felt stronger. I’m on my 2nd go and I already feel the gains and can’t wait to try increasing weight ❤️.
Over 70 mom and grandmother, who is trying to set an example for the next generation. Love ths workout my goal is a real pull up in 6 months and better muscle definition. It takes longer for senior but it’s possible. Thanks Lindsey andz Rachel
I was looking for an injury friendly workout. As someone who enjoys HIIT training, I had to step away from this style due to a tear in my hip labrum. I wanted to work on muscle building while giving the high impact a rest. After completing this workout for 4 weeks, I noticed muscle strength by bringing them to fatigue (lower weight/higher reps) and surprisingly my VO2Max also increased. I can only attribute it to the 2 min hiit finishers. I love the adding this on the end, getting my hiit fix/my HR high but also preserving my injury. Do Not underestimate this style of workout. I was very impressed with this program!
I started Overload 30 back in November 2025 and went through it 1.5 times before the holidays; took me about 3 weeks. Travelled, took some time off, then started it again. Did Overload 30 3 times over 1.5 months and I feel AWESOME! Had to do some of the modified moves, but I finished!! Thanks Lindsey and Rachel, you gals are great!
Seven months ago, I had open-heart surgery to replace my aortic valve. My sternum was literally cut open and bound together with wire. After eight weeks, my movement and lifting restrictions were lifted, and I was off heavy pain meds, unable to start driving and back to life with five kids. I completed cardiac rehab rehabilitation, but I had not lifted more than 5 pounds the entire time. I was a long way to go to recovery and regain my strength. A friend recommended this program and I started on it and was able to do a few days in a row and then rest for a few days but I was able to do it. I started out at 5 pounds and then increased to eight and then 10 and then 12 pounds. I’m about to finish the program tomorrow and I’m so much stronger and more capable. I also am able to do walks and runs and longer cardio exercises and yoga. This is absolutely changed my life for the better. Thank you!
Great program! I really like how this athlete-style workout combines strength training with mobility, balance, and conditioning—it makes the routine more functional rather than just focused on aesthetics. The use of trisets, HIIT intervals, and progressive overload is a smart way to improve both muscle and athletic performance over time. Training 25–30 minutes a day with a structured plan like this is practical and sustainable for long-term results
Note: Before beginning any new exercise program you should consult with your physician or midwife. The information provided with this workout challenge is intended for general information and use; it does not include specific, individualized recommendations and is not intended as medical advice. Before you begin any new exercise program Nourish Move Love, LLC recommends that you consult with your physician. Nourish Move Love, LLC primarily educates clients to assume more personal responsibility for their health by adopting a healthy and active lifestyle.
This post does include affiliate links and I earn a small commission on products purchased using these links (at no additional cost to you). All words and opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting Nourish Move Love.
I have a question: is this overtraining? I am just worried about not giving my body enought to recover as pilates and barr also work upper and lower body just with body weight.
Hi Sasha! This is not overtraining as it’s 30 minutes a day of strength training. If you are getting adequate sleep and nutrition to support this program you’ll be just fine. Overtraining require longer, more rigorous workouts than this. -Lindsey
I loooooved the 3-2-8 plan. I felt like I was able to keep the momentum going each of the 5 days while still allowing my body to rest from some of the full strength workouts with the Pilates/barre variation. Then I could do what my body needed on the weekend! Love love love.
Hi Elise! Way to crush the 3-2-8 challenge, so happy to hear you loved the variety of workouts! Keep coming back for more!
Hi Ladies, I LOVED this 3-2-8 workout program. I appreciate how all your workouts are dynamic and have SO much variation. I never get bored. This program was no different! An idea: Along with walking, I’ve been learning about the potential benefits about working out according to your cycle. Could be a cool program to see in the future! Thanks again, I appreciate all you guys do.
Tori thank you so much! So glad you are loved the 3-2-8 challenge – you are so awesome!
I loved this SO much- I’m going to repeat it for a couple weeks. I’m a new mom of 2 and it felt so manageable and like I got into a good rhythm.
Olivia I am so glad you are loving the 3-2-8 challenge! You are so awesome mama! Keep coming back for more effective challenges!
Hi Lindsey! Thank you so much for providing such real content and flexible work out schedules. I found your workouts when I was 2 years postpartum with my first daughter (who is now 4 1/2 years old) and followed you all through my second pregnancy (now 10 months postpartum). It hasn’t been easy the second time around, but your workouts certainly make things doable. I look forward to your email with a new challenge on Sundays! I I used to mainly do HIIT, but I wasn’t able to maintain that after I had my first daughter and wasn’t seeing any change. Your workouts have been life-changing. I’ve recommended you to so many of my friends and family members!
Lily! You are so awesome mama! I am so glad you are loving our quick and effective workouts, and recommending them to friends and family (the support means so much)! Keep coming back for more!
Hi Ladies! Lindsey, I love your workouts and have been doing them regularly for 2 years. I have told so many people about them. My chiropractor has even posted some of your workouts on her page after finding out about you from me. Anyway, just wanted to let you know that the new workout program wasn’t sent to my email today like it usually is on Sunday. Not sure if it was just me or if there was a glitch. If I got dropped, could you add me back! Thank you so much! Love you ladies!
Hi Jill! Thanks for following along with NML and sharing our workouts with your friends – we so appreciate you! It looks like Sunday’s email was delivered to you, but we did just switch to a new email platform which might be the issue. You’re still an active subscriber, but our emails are now being delivered from info@nourishmovelove.com so please add that email address to your safe senders list! Your Sunday email may have landed in junk or spam due to the sender address update. Thanks! -Team NML