Lesson Objective

Students will categorize and perform exercises based on movement patterns (Push/Pull) and muscle relationships (Supersets/Compound sets).

How does the bench press (push) relate to the bent-over row (pull) in terms of joint balance?

Agonist, Antagonist, Synergist, Superset, Compound Set, Push/Pull Split, Muscle Imbalance, Range of Motion (ROM).

Standard 2: (Focusing on the anatomical and biomechanical principles of movement).

(DOK 1) Define a "synergist" muscle and its role in a movement.
(DOK 2) Distinguish between a "Superset" (alternating opposing muscles) and a "Compound set" (same muscle group).


Understanding how muscles work together (agonists/antagonists) helps you understand why your body moves the way it does. This specialized knowledge prevents "boredom" and allows for a "shorter time for each workout" by focusing on intensity.

lifting weight will make my muscles big

Provide variations of each exercise for differing levels of skill and development.

Students design a 1-day "Push/Pull" routine using at least three exercises for each category (e.g., Shoulder Press vs. Lat Pull Down).

Dumbbells, barbells, cable machines, anatomy charts showing prime movers