# The PowerHybrid Challenge: Combining Strength And Endurance In fitness, achieving strength and endurance often feels like a balancing act. Traditional training methods typically focus on one at the expense of the other, leaving many athletes wondering if it's possible to excel in both areas simultaneously. But what if you can maximize the benefits of different training methods into just one comprehensive workout plan? ![woman](//cdn.gymaholic.co/articles/the-powerhybrid-challenge-combining-strength-and-endurance/woman-new.jpg "woman") In this article, we’ll give you exactly how you can take advantage of the PowerHybrid challenge to push yourself to the limits. ## The PowerHybrid Challenge: Our founder, Sax ([@saxofficial](https://www.instagram.com/saxofficial/)), developed the PowerHybrid Challenge to focus on two of the most important aspects of fitness: [self-discipline](https://www.gymaholic.co/articles/6-ways-to-build-self-discipline-in-fitness-and-achieve-more) and [mental resilience](https://www.gymaholic.co/articles/how-exercise-will-help-you-build-mental-resilience). This challenge is designed to test your strength and endurance through a carefully curated set of exercises. **The challenge revolves around seven key exercises in this order:** 1. [Squats](https://www.gymaholic.co/exercises/162/barbell-squat-video) 2. [Deadlifts](https://www.gymaholic.co/exercises/118/barbell-deadlift-video) 3. [Bench Press](https://www.gymaholic.co/exercises/112/barbell-bench-press-video) 4. [Pull-Ups](https://www.gymaholic.co/exercises/879/pull-up-video) 5. [Overhead Press](https://www.gymaholic.co/exercises/840/overhead-press-ohp-video) 6. [Cycling](https://www.gymaholic.co/exercises/1554/cycling-video) 7. [Running](https://www.gymaholic.co/exercises/1452/running-video) ## How many reps for the strength training exercises In his personal training, Sax emphasizes a high volume of exercises, incorporating both power lifts and [cardiovascular endurance activities](https://www.gymaholic.co/articles/6-benefits-of-adding-cardio-in-your-strength-training-routine). He has crafted a physically and mentally demanding workout regimen consisting of 42 reps for each strength training exercise, structured as 6 sets of 7 reps with a weight that is challenging to do that last rep. ## The distance to complete for the endurance exercises For the endurance component, Sax advocates completing 42 kilometers (26.1 miles) of cycling and running (a full marathon), further pushing the limits of physical and mental endurance. ## The PowerHybrid Challenge Based On Your Fitness Level The beauty of this challenge is that it can be adapted to all fitness levels, so beginners and intermediate lifters can still complete the challenge with proper preparation. Sax completed the expert version of the challenge which is 42 reps and 42 km (26.1 miles). **Here’s the breakdown per fitness level:** **Beginner:** * 7 reps for strength training exercises (1 set x 7 reps) * 7 km (4.3 miles) for cycling and running {id:618386,className:Workout} **Intermediate:** * 14 reps for strength training exercises (2 sets x 7 reps) * 14 km (8.6 miles) for cycling and running {id:620293,className:Workout} **Advanced:** * 21 reps for strength training exercises (3 sets x 7 reps) * 21 km (13 miles) for cycling and running {id:622975,className:Workout} **Expert:** * 42 reps for strength training exercises (6 sets x 7 reps) * 42 km (26.1 miles) for cycling and running {id:625038,className:Workout} You can find all the PowerHybrid Challenge preparations based on your fitness level [here.](https://www.gymaholic.co/plans/tag/powerhybrid) ## Fitness routine overview: The PowerHybrid challenge is a comprehensive fitness plan designed to maximize the benefits of strength and endurance training in 30 days. It works perfectly for beginners and fitness enthusiasts looking to build their foundational strength and stamina in preparation for more explosive workouts and athletic performance in the future. This routine prioritizes a high-volume workout that optimizes fat loss while building lean muscle mass in your upper and lower body. This workout plan is designed to push yourself physically and mentally to the limits. So whether your goal is to achieve an aesthetic look or build your fundamentals, you’ll definitely achieve a better sense of personal growth. The goal is to build muscle and increase power while enhancing cardiovascular fitness and stamina. ### Equipment needed * Barbell * Stationary bike * Bench * Treadmill * Cable machine ### Reminders #### Warm-Up: Always perform 5 to 10 minutes of [warm-up exercises](https://www.gymaholic.co/articles/warming-up-and-stretching) to elevate your heart rate and increase your body temperature. This crucial step prepares your muscles and joints for the workout, reducing the risk of injury and helping your body adapt more smoothly to the physical demands of the session. #### Rest Between Sets: Allow yourself 40-60 seconds of rest between sets. This [recovery time](https://www.gymaholic.co/articles/how-to-avoid-injuries-and-take-your-recovery-to-the-next-level) is essential for your muscles to recuperate, helping to prevent overfatigue and enabling you to maintain optimal performance throughout your workout. #### Cool-Down: At the end of each workout session, take 5 to 10 minutes for cool-down activities. Engage in low-intensity cardio and gentle stretching to gradually bring your heart rate down and promote flexibility. This helps to reduce muscle soreness and aids in recovery. #### Progression Start with lighter weights, gradually increasing the load as you grow stronger each week. For most exercises, beginning with a 10-lb dumbbell is a good starting point. Consider working with a training coach or having an [accountability partner](https://www.gymaholic.co/articles/the-importance-of-having-a-gym-partner-to-achieve-your-goals) to help you stay motivated, maintain proper form, and consistently push your limits in a safe and effective manner. ## The PowerHybrid preparation challenge for beginners The PowerHybrid Challenge is a mentally and physically taxing endeavor that will require you to be at your absolute best—strong, resilient, and determined. To ensure you're fully prepared to take on this intense challenge, we've designed a 26-day preparation program that will push your limits and condition your body and mind. This program consists of comprehensive daily workout sessions, meticulously crafted to build the strength, endurance, and mental toughness you'll need to conquer the PowerHybrid Challenge. Each day of the challenge preparation plan focuses on different aspects of fitness, ensuring that by the time you reach day 26 you are ready to take on the PowerHybrid Challenge workout. The first 3 weeks of exercise is designed to build your foundational strength and endurance. The last week of preparation is for a deload week to prevent overtraining, promote recovery and enhance performance. ### Day 1: PowerHybrid Upper Bench

Bench & Cable Row
Barbell bench press	7 reps x 3 rounds
Seated cable row	8 reps x 3 rounds
Rest	2 mins
Pull up & delts
Pull up	7 reps x 3 rounds
Seated bent over dumbbell rear delt fly	8 reps x 3 rounds
Dumbbell lateral raise	8 reps x 3 rounds
Rest	2 mins
Cable fly & superman
Cable fly	10 reps x 2 rounds
Superman	10 reps x 2 rounds
Rest	90 seconds
Low fly & pullover
Low cable fly	12 reps x 2 rounds
Dumbbell pullover	8 reps x 2 rounds
Rest	90 seconds

### Day 2: PowerHybrid Running 2.5 km (1. 5 mi)

Running	15 minutes for 2.5 km (1.5m)
Stretching
Quadriceps stretch	30 seconds each side
Seated forward bend pose	30 seconds
Pigeon pose (Kapotasana)	30 seconds each side
Upward dog pose	30 seconds

![running](//cdn.gymaholic.co/articles/the-powerhybrid-challenge-combining-strength-and-endurance/running.jpg "running") ### Day 3: PowerHybrid Legs

Squat
Barbell squat	3 sets x 7 reps (2-minute rest in between)
Leg ext & curl
Leg extension	12 reps x 2 rounds
Leg curl	12 reps x 2 rounds
Rest	2 minutes
RDL & calves
Romanian deadlift (RDL)	8 reps x 2 rounds
Single-leg calf raise	12 reps each side x 2 rounds

### Day 4: PowerHybrid Cycling 5 km (3.1 miles)

Cycling	15 minutes x 5 km (3.1 miles)
Stretching
Quadriceps stretch	30 seconds on each side
Seated forward bend pose	30 seconds
Pigeon pose (Kapotasana)	30 seconds on each side
Upward dog pose	30 seconds

### Day 5: PowerHybrid Deadlift

Deadlift
Barbell deadlift	3 sets x 7 reps (3-minute rest)
OHP warmup
Overhead press (OHP)	7 reps x 1 round
T bar row	8 reps x 1 round
Rest	2 minute
OHP
Overhead press (OHP)	7 reps x 3 rounds
T bar row	8 reps x 3 rounds
Rest	2 minutes
Pull up & delts
Pull up	7 reps x 2 rounds
Lying rear delts raise	8 reps x 2 rounds
Dumbbell lateral raise	10 reps x 2 rounds
Rest	2 minutes

### Day 6: Rest ### Day 7: Rest ### Day 8: PowerHybrid Upper bench

Bench & Cable Row
Barbell bench press	7 reps x 3 rounds
Single arm dumbbell row	8 reps on each side x 3 rounds
Rest	90 seconds
Pull up & delts
Pull up	7 reps x 3 rounds
Alternate Arnold press	16 reps x 3 rounds
Bent over dumbbell rear delts fly	8 reps x 3 rounds
Rest	2 mins
Cable fly & superman
Cable fly	10 reps x 2 rounds
Superman pull	10 reps x 2 rounds
Rest	90 seconds
Low fly & pullover
Low cable fly	12 reps x 2 rounds
Incline dumbbell pullover	8 reps x 2 rounds
Rest	90 seconds

### Day 9: PowerHybrid Running 3.5 km (2.1 miles)

Running	25 minutes for 3.5 km (2.1miles)
Stretching
Quadriceps stretch	30 seconds each side
Seated forward bend pose	30 seconds
Pigeon pose (Kapotasana)	30 seconds each side
Upward dog pose	30 seconds

### Day 10: PowerHybrid Legs

Squat
Barbell squat	3 sets x 7 reps (2 minutes rest)
Leg ext & curl
Leg extension	12 reps x 3 rounds
Rest	2 minutes
RDL & calves
Romanian deadlift (RDL)	8 reps x 2 rounds
Single-leg calf raise	12 reps on each side x 2 rounds
Rest	90 seconds

### Day 11: PowerHybrid Cycling 7 km (4.3 miles)

Cycling	20 minutes for 7 km (4.3miles)
Stretching
Quadriceps stretch	30 seconds on each side
Seated forward bend pose	30 seconds
Pigeon pose (Kapotasana)	30 seconds on each side
Upward dog pose	30 seconds

You can find the PowerHybrid Challenge preparation in our app: {id:30622,className:Plan} ### Day 12: PowerHybrid Deadlift

Deadlift
Barbell deadlift	3 sets x 7 reps (3-minutes rest)
OHP warm up
Overhead press (OHP)	7 reps x 1 round
Standing lat pushdown	8 reps x 1 round
Rest	2 minutes
OHP
Overhead press (OHP)	7 reps x 3 rounds
Standing lat pushdown	8 reps x 3 rounds
Rest	2 minutes
Pull up & delts
Pull up	7 reps x 2 rounds
Incline single-arm dumbbell shoulder raise	8 reps on each side x 2 rounds
Rest	1 minute

### Day 13: Rest day Take your recovery days seriously, they’re as important as working out. ### Day 14: Rest day Take your recovery days seriously, they’re as important as working out. ### Day 15: PowerHybrid Upper Bench

Bench & Cable Row
Barbell bench press	7 reps x 3 rounds
Single arm dumbbell row	8 reps on each side x 3 rounds
Rest	90 seconds
Pull up & delts
Pull up	7 reps x 3 rounds
Bent over dumbbell rear delts fly	8 reps x 3 rounds
Dumbbell lateral raise	8 reps x 3 rounds
Rest	2 mins
Cable fly & superman
Cable fly	10 reps x 3 rounds
Superman pull	10 reps x 3 rounds
Rest	90 seconds
Low fly & pullover
Low cable fly	12 reps x 2 rounds
Incline dumbbell pullover	8 reps x 2 rounds
Rest	90 seconds

### Day 16: PowerHybrid Running 5.5 km (3.4 miles)

Running	35 minutes of 5.5 km (3.4 miles)
Stretching
Quadriceps stretch	30 seconds each side
Seated forward bend pose	30 seconds
Pigeon pose (Kapotasana)	30 seconds each side
Upward dog pose	30 seconds

### Day 17: PowerHybrid Legs

Squat
Barbell squat	3 sets x 7 reps (2 minutes rest)
Leg ext & curl
Leg extension	12 reps x 3 rounds
Leg curl	12 reps x 3 rounds
Rest	2 minutes
RDL & calves
Romanian deadlift (RDL)	8 reps x 3 rounds
Single-leg calf raise	12 reps on each side x 3 rounds
Rest	90 seconds

### Day 18: PowerHybrid Cycling 9 km (5.6 miles)

Cycling	25 minutes of 9 km (5.6 miles)
Stretching
Quadriceps stretch	30 seconds on each side
Seated forward bend pose	30 seconds
Pigeon pose (Kapotasana)	30 seconds on each side
Upward dog pose	30 seconds

### Day 19: PowerHybrid Deadlift

Deadlift
Barbell deadlift	3 sets x 7 reps (3-minutes rest)
OHP warm up
Overhead press (OHP)	7 reps x 1 round
Standing lat pushdown	8 reps x 1 round
Rest	2 minutes
OHP
Overhead press (OHP)	7 reps x 3 rounds
T bar row	8 reps x 3 rounds
Rest	2 minutes
Pull up & delts
Pull up	7 reps x 3 rounds
Lying rear delt raise	8 reps x 3 rounds
Dumbbell lateral raise	10 reps x 3 rounds
Rest	2 minutes

![back](//cdn.gymaholic.co/articles/the-powerhybrid-challenge-combining-strength-and-endurance/back.jpg "back") ### Day 20: Rest day Take your recovery days seriously, they’re as important as working out. ### Day 21: Rest day Take your recovery days seriously, they’re as important as working out. ### Day 22: PowerHybrid Upper Bench (Deload)

Bench & Cable Row
Barbell bench press	7 reps x 3 rounds
Single arm dumbbell row	8 reps on each side x 3 rounds
Rest	90 seconds
Pull up & delts
Pull up	7 reps x 3 rounds
Bent over dumbbell rear delts fly	6 reps x 3 rounds
Alternate arnold press	12 reps x 3 rounds
Rest	2 mins
Cable fly & superman
Cable fly	8 reps x 3 rounds
Superman pull	8 reps x 3 rounds
Rest	30 seconds
Low fly & pullover
Low cable fly	10 reps x 2 rounds
Incline dumbbell pullover	6 reps x 2 rounds
Rest	90 seconds

### Day 23: PowerHyBrid Running 3.5 km (2.1miles) (Deload)

Running	20 minutes of 3.5 km (2.1 miles)
Stretching
Quadriceps stretch	30 seconds each side
Seated forward bend pose	30 seconds
Pigeon pose (Kapotasana)	30 seconds each side
Upward dog pose	30 seconds

### Day 24: PowerHybrid Legs (Deload)

Squat
Barbell squat	3 sets x 5 reps (2 minutes rest)
Leg ext & curl
Leg extension	10 reps x 3 rounds
Leg curl	10 reps x 3 rounds
Rest	2 minutes
RDL & calves
Romanian deadlift (RDL)	6 reps x 3 rounds
Single-leg calf raise	10 reps on each side x 3 rounds
Rest	90 seconds

### Day 25: PowerHybrid Cycling 7 km (4.3 miles) (Deload)

Cycling	20 minutes of 7 km (4.3 miles)
Stretching
Quadriceps stretch	30 seconds on each side
Seated forward bend pose	30 seconds
Pigeon pose (Kapotasana)	30 seconds on each side
Upward dog pose	30 seconds

### Day 26: PowerHybrid Deadlift (Deload)

Deadlift
Barbell deadlift	3 sets x 5 reps (3-minutes rest)
OHP warm up
Overhead press (OHP)	7 reps x 1 round
Standing lat pushdown	8 reps x 1 round
Rest	2 minutes
OHP
Overhead press (OHP)	5 reps x 3 rounds
T bar row	6 reps on each side x 2 rounds
Rest	2 minutes
Pull up & delts
Pull up	5 reps x 3 rounds
Incline single-arm dumbbell shoulder raise	6 reps x 3 rounds
Rest	2 minutes

### Day 27: Rest day Take your recovery days seriously, they’re as important as working out. ### Day 28: Rest day Take your recovery days seriously, they’re as important as working out. ![ohp](//cdn.gymaholic.co/articles/the-powerhybrid-challenge-combining-strength-and-endurance/ohp.jpg "ohp") ## PowerHybrid Challenge

Squat
Barbell Squat (Warmup set)	1 set x 7 reps (2-minute rest)
Barbell Squat	1 set x 7 reps (2-minute rest)
Deadlift
Barbell deadlift (Warmup set)	1 set x 7 reps (2-minute rest)
Barbell deadlift	1 set x 7 reps (2-minute rest)
Bench press
Barbell bench press (Warmup Set)	1 set x 7 reps (2-minute rest)
Barbell bench press	1 set x 7 reps (2-minute rest)
Pull up
Pull up	1 set x 7 reps (2-minute rest)
Overhead press
Overhead press (OHP) (Warmup set)	1 set x 7 reps (2-minute rest)
Overhead press (OHP)	1 set x 7 reps (2-minute rest)
Cycling
Cycling	20 minutes of 7 km (4.35 miles)
Rest	2-minutes
Running
Running	45 minutes of 7 km (4.35 miles)

## Bottomline The PowerHybrid Challenge is more than just a workout—it's a test of your physical limits and mental fortitude. Completing the challenge begins with disciplined preparation, strategic training and mindful recovery. Remember: the key to fitness success lies in consistency and listening to your body. As you progress, focus not only on completing the exercises but on building a stronger and a more resilient version of yourself. Your strongest self isn’t built in a day. But it is built one workout at a time.