15-Minute Workout: Boost Strength in Less Time

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Here's the key to building tremendous strength in little time: Perform exercises that work a single set of muscles while allowing others to recover, even when rest periods are short, says Mark Philippi, C.S.C.S., the owner of Philippi Sports Institute.
First, perform 1 set of each of the four exercises.
Next, do 1 set of deadlifts, followed by 1 set of bench presses. Rest 60 seconds between sets; do this combo a total of 3 times.
Last, perform 1 set of reverse lunges and 1 set of diagonal lifts/presses. Rest 30 seconds between sets; do this combo a total of 3 times.

Deadlift

Bend at your hips and knees and grab the bar overhand, your hands about shoulder-width apart. Keeping your back straight, pull your torso back and up, thrust your hips forward, and stand up with the bar. Then lower it, keeping it close to your body. Do 3 to 5 reps.

Bench Press

Grab a barbell with an overhand grip that's just beyond shoulder width. Hold the bar straight above your sternum. Lower it, pause, and press back up. Keep your elbows tucked in so that your upper arms form a 45-degree angle in the down position. Do 3 to 5 reps.

Barbell Reverse Lunge

Hold a bar across your upper back with an overhand grip. Step backward with your right leg and lower yourself until your right knee nearly touches the floor. Pause, and quickly push back to the starting position. Do 8 reps; switch legs and repeat.

Diagonal Lift and Press

Hold a weight plate in front of your thighs. With your feet shoulder-width apart, squat and rotate your torso (and the plate) to the right. Then stand and rotate left while lifting the plate up and across your chest until it's over your left shoulder and your arms are locked. Lower the weight. Do 5 reps, and then switch sides.