When you build a program in the Program Builder, repeating a workout across multiple weeks creates a shared link between them — editing one updates all copies. Workout Branching breaks that link, letting you create independent variations of a workout for specific weeks without affecting the rest of your program.
Why Use Workout Branching?
Progressive overload done right — keep the same workout structure but adjust reps, sets, or weight on a per-week basis
Create week-specific variations without rebuilding workouts from scratch
Perfect for periodization — same movement patterns, different intensities across training blocks
Avoid accidental changes — no more editing a workout in one week and unintentionally changing it everywhere else
Test exercise swaps safely — try a substitution in one week before rolling it out to the whole program
How Shared Workouts Work
When you add a week using Repeat, all workouts in that week are linked to their originals. For example, if "Push Day A" appears in Week 1, Week 2, and Week 3, they are all the same shared workout. Editing "Push Day A" in Week 2 would also change it in Week 1 and Week 3.
The builder automatically detects shared workouts and warns you before you make any edits, so you always know when a change will affect multiple weeks.
How to Branch a Workout
Open a workout that is shared across multiple weeks
The builder displays a warning indicating this workout is shared with other weeks
Click Branch Workout to create an independent copy for that specific week
A confirmation dialog shows exactly which weeks will be affected by the branch
After branching, you can edit freely — changes only apply to the branched copy
When to Use Branching
Here are some practical examples of when branching comes in handy:
Progressive overload — Week 1: 3x10 bench press → Week 4: 4x6 bench press (same workout, different programming)
Adding a finisher — include an extra burnout exercise only in the final week of a training block
Equipment swaps — substitute an exercise for one week due to equipment availability (e.g., dumbbell press instead of barbell)
Deload weeks — create a lighter variation of a heavy workout for recovery weeks
Ready to build your program? Head over to the Program Builder to get started.