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Progressive Overload Workout Plan (Overload 30)

Hit new strength goals and break through fitness plateaus with Overload 30: a free progressive overload workout plan designed to build serious strength and muscle definition in just 30 minutes a day. This is a strength-focused program designed to help you progressively build strength over time, complete with a downloadable workout tracker PDF and daily follow-along videos on YouTube to guide every rep.

You’ll never know what you’re capable of – until you train like this.

Overload 30 is my first ever progressive overload program, designed to build real muscle in just 30 minutes a day.

Each rep you put in matters: which is why I’m giving you a free printable workout tracking system so you can measure your progress.

This program pushes you to train with purpose. After decades of training, I’ve learned that the basic lifts are the ones that get the best results. Moves like squats, deadlifts, chest presses and back rows are staples in the fitness community for a reason: they work.

Overload 30 is classic strength training – with a functional twist. Unlike traditional bodybuilding programs that focus exclusively on aesthetic muscle growth, Overload 30 will push you to functionally train in multiple planes of motion, improve your balance and stability, and increase your mobility, all while building muscle like never before.

This strength-based program utilizes progressive overload techniques like:

  • Higher Training Volume. In this program, each exercise is repeated x3 sets. Doing more sets increases training volume, which is a key driver of muscle growth.
  • Split Training Workouts. Although full-body workouts are functional, split training (or focusing on a specific muscle group during your workout) is more effective for building muscle. Split training workouts tend to have higher intensity per muscle, meaning you can get closer to failure (and therefore, muscle growth) than you would in a full body workout.
  • Tracking System. To achieve progressive overload, you need to gradually increase the intensity of the workout, typically over a period of 6-12 weeks. That’s why I’ve created a free workout tracking PDF so you can measure your progress over time.

This 2-week program includes 10 unique workouts. I recommend repeating the program x2-3 times (making it a 4-week to 6-week program) for best results.

woman curling heavy dumbbells as part of progressive overload program

LET’S GET STARTED

Download Your FREE Workout Plan & Workout Tracker Here

Download the PDF calendar for this workout plan with a daily workout tracker so you can measure your progress.
Download Plan

What Is Progressive Overload?

Progressive overload is a type of strength training that involves gradually increasing the intensity or difficulty of your workouts over time. Muscle growth (hypertrophy) depends on progressive overload, which means putting enough stress on the muscles to stimulate adaptation.

You can achieve progressive overload multiple ways:

  • Increase weight: Start with a weight that allows you to complete your desired number of repetitions with correct form, and aim to increase the weight 2-5% each week.
  • Increase repetitions: If lifting heavier weights isn’t possible yet, make your workouts more challenging by increasing the number of reps.
  • Increase sets: If you want to increase repetitions over time, start by increasing working sets.
  • Decrease rest time: This is a great way to increase the intensity of your workouts without adding load or volume.
  • Increase range of motion: Engage more muscle fibers and increase strength while improving your mobility over time.

Each of these increases stress on the body in some way, which is what allows your body to adapt and rebuild stronger.

woman flexing to show off strong arms after completing progressive overload program

This Progressive Overload Training Plan is for Anyone Looking to:

  • Increase muscle definition and strength in the upper body, lower body and core.
  • Follow a multi-week program, tracking progress over time.
  • Improve cardiovascular and athletic fitness level.
  • Increase core strength, flexibility and mobility.
  • Burn calories, lose weight and burn body fat at home.
  • Establish a solid weight training routine at home in just two weeks.

This free, 2-week workout plan is modeled after my signature strength training programs: Strong 20, Stronger 25, Build 30, Max 20, SplitStrong 35, Perform 20, HIITStrong 35, MetCon 100 and Zero 30. These programs are different from myother free workout challenges because they include 10 daily workout videos (a new workout video each day) that were cohesively filmed as one complete program. 

You can find more information about which signature program is right for you (and the order I recommend progressing through my programs) in this free Nourish Move Love Program Guide. If you’re interested in a combination of strength training and pilates, a 3-day split or other workout plan types, I have those available as well! If you’re wondering whether you should prioritize strength training or cardio in your workout routine, read more here.

Read A 5-Star Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Just finished in 14 days ! I’m definitely stronger than when I started and am looking forward to doing it again. Thank you for building this program… not only am I physically stronger, but mentally stronger as well.”

Maribeth T.

Calendar showing 2 weeks of progressive overload workouts

Already completed this challenge? Leave a review!

Week 1 of progressive overload workout plan

Day 1: 30-Minute Legs and Glutes Workout

Day 2: 30-Minute Push Day: Chest, Shoulders, Triceps

Day 3: 30-Minute Glute and Hamstring Workout

Day 4: 30-Minute Back and Bicep Pull Workout

Day 5: 30-Minute Full-Body Core Workout with Weights

week 2 of progressive overload workout plan

Day 6: 30-Minute Quad and Glute Workout

Day 7: 30-Minute Chest, Shoulders and Triceps Workout

Day 8: 30-Minute Glute and Hamstring Supersets

Day 9: 30-Minute Back and Bicep Workout

Day 10: 30-Minute Full Body Ab Workout

two women flexing after completing progressive overload workout plan

Find This Workout Plan On Youtube

youtube icon Youtube Playlist

Workout Plan PDF Details

1. Gym Equipment Needed:

A Set of Dumbbells (Discount Code: NML5). Most of the daily workouts require a set of free weights. Each weight training workout will have a recommended dumbbell weight, usually between 15-30 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: Mini Loop and Long Loop Resistance Bands (Discount Code: NML), Pull Up Bar and Bench/Box/Chair.

2. Time Requirement: 

Workouts are 30-35 minutes per day, 5 days per week.

This plan includes 2 rest days per week. You get to choose which days are your rest days. I suggest resting after day two or three (Wednesday or Thursday) and then again after day five (Sunday). OR completing days 1-5 and then resting on days 6-7; over the weekend. The goal is to make this plan work for YOU!

If you’re only able to train x 3 days a week, I would suggest completing (1) leg workout, (1) pull workout and (1) push workout each week.

3. Fitness Level:

Intermediate to advanced, with modifications offered for all fitness levels in the daily workout videos.

4. Cost:

FREE! No sign up needed.

two women performing different versions of a back row as part of progressive overload workout plan
Can you build muscle mass without progressive overload?

In order to build strength and muscle, you need progressive overload. Progressive overload training is essential for muscle growth because your body only builds muscle in response to stress. If you lift the same weights with the same reps every week, your body has no reason to change. Overloading the muscles consistently forces them to repair, rebuild, and grow stronger to handle future stress.

What Weights Should Beginners Use?

I suggest starting with 5-10% of your body weight. So if I weighed 150 lbs, using 5-10% of my body weight would be 8-15 lb weights. You can always start with what you have access to and increase weights as you become more skilled in form and technique.

How fast should I increase weight with progressive overload?

A good rule of thumb is to keep increases under 10% each week to allow for gradual adaptation while avoiding injury. This means if you can perform 10 reps on week 1, you may aim for 11 reps on week 2, while keeping the same weight. The last 2-3 reps of each exercise should be challenging, but allow you to complete the move with that amount of weight with good form.

How To Download and Use This Workout Plan

  1. Download and Print the Progressive Overload Workout Plan PDF by clicking here, or bookmark this webpage for reference as weekly workouts are outlined below.
  2. Save the workout calendar to your mobile device home screen for easy access.
    1. Open this workout calendar pdf in the safari browser on your phone.
    2. Tap the bottom arrow in the center of your screen.
    3. Select ‘Add to Home Screen’.
  3. Hover over and then click on the bold text each day to access the full video on nourishmovelove.com. Or scroll down to find the daily workouts linked below.
  4. You can also access all of the home workout videos on this workout challenge calendar on YouTube via this YouTube Playlist: Overload 30 Workout Program.
  5. Share your daily workouts with me by tagging @nourishmovelove on social and ‘Pin’ the daily workouts on Pinterest so you can do them again.

Pin this Free Progressive Overload Workout Program:

Woman holding dumbbell at chest after completing progressive overload program

Leave A Review

Your review helps us keep creating free workouts.

Did you love this workout challenge or notice your strength improving? We would truly appreciate a review! Every single one helps us keep creating free fitness content that supports you in your health journey.

Addidictive!

August 14, 2026

I love all your programs, but this is one I keep coming back to. I love seeing my progress. My strength gains are incredible and it is so important to me as I age to stay strong. Thank you for putting out such great content and focusing on what matters, strength gains, not appearance!!!

Erin

TOUGH BUT REWARDING!

August 4, 2026

I would like to say I enjoyed this workout but really, I felt more accomplishment and satisfaction than pleasure. I kept coming back to try and better myself because I just couldn’t let my last workout define me as a quitter! #4 was a killer for me, and my upper arms are still hurling injures at me. Your plans keep me coming back for more! Thanks very much.

Sylvanne Migneault

Best 30 mins spent

July 27, 2026

I am a stay at home mom of three kiddos and every minute is accounted for, but Linds makes it so easy to not forget about my health. I am able to workout in the comfort of my own home. Whether with my children included or not. Her videos are encouraging, uplifting and challenging. Her free workouts is a prayer answered for sure!

Jackie

Busy Homeschooling Homesteading Mom Needs This

July 26, 2026

I had never done a workout routine consistently in my life. Then in what could be argued a very busy season in life, I decided for the sake of being able to physically do all the things I’m needed to do on the farm with my six kids, I had to recover from prior pregnancy weakness and injuries. I’m thankful for the free, practical, motivating, challenging videos that helped me regain my posture, stamina, strength, and feel like me again. After I completed the series I had to stop because of time issues that popped up but I genuinely look forward to getting back to reclaiming this important investment in me that also benefits my family.

Linda

Response from Nourish, Move, Love

Hi Linda! Thank you for sweating with us. We’re so glad NML workouts have supported you, especially during a busy season of life. Keep up the great work!

Feeling strong and grateful.

July 24, 2026

Thank you so much for putting together a doable and achievable post partum plan. I am on Day 19 and I feel so much stronger. Since having my baby I haven’t been able to stick with a routine until this. I would work out once or twice a week if that. Now I’m moving 3-5 days a week. Here I am 7 months postpartum and feeling strong thank G-d! Thank you so much.

Yosefa

Started this after throwing my back out

July 10, 2026

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.

Racheal Little

Challenging yet fun workouts

July 8, 2026

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.

Kathleen

Loved this program!

July 6, 2026

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!

Chrissy

Best program ever!

July 6, 2026

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!

Cindy

Easy to follow, fun, and challenging!

July 2, 2026

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!

Rachel

3 babies, 3 postpartum workout plans with Lindsey

June 25, 2026

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!

Ayelen

Love this program

June 24, 2026

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.

MS

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!!

Gets the Job Done!

June 24, 2026

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.

Cindy

Love this program!

June 23, 2026

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!

Liz

Best thing ever that I found this program! I loved it 😍

June 21, 2026

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.

Thays

Getting back into shape!

June 18, 2026

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!

Holly

The BEST workout to start with postpartum!

June 4, 2026

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!

Mary Claire

Gets me sweating!

June 2, 2026

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.

Daniella

My arms are on fire

June 2, 2026

Day 2 arm day! Wow! Seemed easy when I started and now my arms are burning. Grateful for a good 20 mins!

Steph

Quick and no nonsense for busy working moms.

June 1, 2026

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.

Ashley Valis

Perfect for a busy mom of 5

May 31, 2026

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!

Lanie

QUICK, EFFECTIVE, FAST WORKOUTS for EVERYONE!!!!

May 30, 2026

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.

Becky D

What an experience

May 26, 2026

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 ❤️.

Stephanie

Challenging and effective

May 21, 2026

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

Mary

Increases my VO2Max with overload30

May 20, 2026

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!

Alissa

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 recommends that you consult with your physician. Nourish Move Love 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. All words and opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting Nourish Move Love.

6 comments
  1. If I want more progressive overload workouts do any of your other programs do this? Just wondering what to do next to keep building strength

  2. Hi there, I love your videos! I am excited to start this program, however I am curious if it is a good program to pair with light jogging and returning back from postpartum at 3 months.My goal is to return to jogging and rebuilding strength, is there any of your videos you might add in or swap with that in mind? I did complete the HIIT workout plan right before this.

    • Hi Liz! You can certainly add light jogging onto this program if you’d like to – I’d recommend adding a run to the arm days and potentially the full body day as well if you’re up for it! Keep up the great work! -Lindsey

    • Hi there! Rachel offers modifications throughout the entire program that you can follow along with. Slow down the moves as needed and make things low impact if needed as well! Can’t wait to get started! -Lindsey