This is an intense 5-week, 5 Day/week balanced, multi-modal training cycle built for Busy Dads with Limited Equipment (BDLE). This training plan concurrently trains strength, work capacity, endurance, and chassis integrity (functional core). Each of the training sessions in this plan is designed to be completed in 30-45 minutes.
The plan will work for Busy Moms as well and includes loading for women.
This is Version 2 of this training cycle, updated May 2025.
FITNESS ATTRIBUTES
Strength & Chassis Integrity
The Strength programming in this programming is assessment-based and deploys kettlebells and/or dumbbells, sandbags, and bodyweight exercises. Because it is assessment-based, the strength programming automatically “scales” to the incoming strength of the individual athlete. The strength programming is built around dumbbell or kettlebell front squats, 2-handed kettlebell/dumbbell clean and strict press, and pull ups/chin ups. The strength programming also extends to assessed and progressed chassis integrity (functional core) exercises including weighted sit ups, sandbag get ups, loaded good mornings, ankles-to-bar, and seated Russian twists.
Work Capacity
The work capacity efforts in this training plan begin at 20-minute efforts and build to 45 minute efforts. They are multi-modal “grinds” and deploy sandbag exercises and running or step ups.
Endurance
45-minute run, row, or spin (athlete’s choice) efforts 1 day per week.
WEEKLY SCHEDULE
- Monday – Strength
- Tuesday – Work Capacity
- Wednesday – Endurance
- Thursday – Strength
- Friday – Work Capacity
REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
- 40# Sandbag (women), 60# Sandbag (men)
- Full set of dumbbells (15-45# for women, 25-55# for men) and/or kettlebells. A set of adjustable dumbbells like these will work as well.
- Pull Up Bar
- 16-20″ box, bench or step for step ups.
- Smartphone with repeating countdown interval timer application
- Foam Roller
COMMON QUESTIONS
How long will sessions last?
These training sessions are specifically designed to be completed in 30-45 minutes.
Will these work for Busy Moms? Any modifications for women?
Yes – and the plan includes loading prescriptions for women. For example, if the session calls for kettlebell snatches @ 12/16kg, the first load – 12kg – is for women, and the second load – 16kg – is for men. If the plan calls for 5/10x Push Ups, this means women do 5x push ups, men do 10x push ups.
What if I miss a day?
Begin where you left off when you return to training. This program is progressed – each session builds upon the prior session – so don’t skip a session or skip around. Follow the training sessions in order, regardless.
Where do I find unfamiliar exercises?
See our Exercise Library HERE. The Run/Ruck Calculator is listed as an exercise.
What about nutrition?
See our Nutritional Guidelines HERE.
Can I see sample training?
Yes. Click the “Sample Training” tab to see the entire first week of programming.
How do I access the plan?
Access is online, via username and password. You can log in either through our website or through our app (Mtn Tactical Fitness) available for IOS and Android.
Can I print out sessions to take to the gym?
Yes – you can print a week of programming at a time.
More Questions? Email: coach@mtntactical.com
DISCLAIMER
Before beginning any exercise program, consult with your physician to ensure that you are in proper health. Physical training contains inherent risks including, but not limited to, muscle strains, tears, physical and bodily injury up to and including death. This training program is not meant to provide medical advice; you should obtain medical advice from your private health care practitioner. If you are unable to assume these risks then you should not engage in this training program. No liability is assumed by Mountain Tactical Institute, Inc, its owners or employees, and you train at your own risk. Mountain Tactical Institute makes no warranty, express or implied, of any kind in connection with this training program.
- 40# Sandbag (women), 60# Sandbag (men)
- Full set of dumbbells (15-45# for women, 25-55# for men) and/or kettlebells. A set of adjustable dumbbells like these will work as well.
- Pull Up Bar
- 16-20" box, bench or step for step ups.
- Smartphone with repeating countdown interval timer application
- Foam Roller
MONDAY SESSION 1
OBJ: Strength & Core Assessment
Warm Up
3 Rounds
-
5x Kettlebell/Dumbbell Front Squat – Start light and increase load as you warm up
-
5x Kettlebell/Dumbbell Push Press – Start light and increase load as you warm up
-
Lat + Pec Stretch
-
Instep Stretch
Training
Front Squat Assessment
-
Max Rep Kettlebell/Dumbbell Front Squat in 60 Seconds – 12/16kg or 25/35#
You can stop and rest as needed, just keep working for the full 60 seconds. RECORD YOUR MAX REPS
Clean and Strict Press Assessment
-
Max Rep 2-Handed Kettlebell/Dumbbell Clean and Strict Press in 60 Seconds – 12/16kg or 25/35#
You can stop and rest as needed, just keep working for the full 60 seconds. RECORD YOUR MAX REPS
Pull Up Assessment
-
Max Rep Strictly Pull Ups
No time limit, but both hands have to remain on the pull up bar and your feet cannot touch the ground or a bench during the assessment. RECORD YOUR MAX REPS
Weighted Sit Up Assessment
-
Max Rep Weighted Sit Ups in 60 Seconds – 8/12 kg Kettlebell or 15/25# Dumbbell
Complete this weighted sit up effort holding a single kettlebell/dumbbell with both hands. RECORD MAX REPS
Sandbag Good Morning Assessment
-
Max Rep Sandbag Good Morning in 60 Seconds – 40/60#
You can stop and rest as needed, just keep working for the full 60 seconds. RECORD YOUR MAX REPS
2 Rounds:
-
Lat + Pec Stretch
-
Hip Flexor Stretch
TUESDAY SESSION 2
OBJ: Work Capacity
Training
20 Minute Grind ...
-
3x Sandbag Burpee – 40/60#
-
75m Shuttle – down 25m, back 25m, down 25m, walk back to start
“Grind” = work steadily, not frantically through the exercises in this circuit for the prescribed time.
2 Rounds:
-
Instep Stretch
-
Lat + Pec Stretch
-
Foam Roll Low Back
WEDNESDAY SESSION 3
OBJ: Endurance
Training
Moderate Pace Endurance Run
-
Run for 30–45 Minutes, Moderate Pace
“Moderate” = Comfortable but not easy
-
Foam Roll Legs, Low Back
THURSDAY SESSION 4
OBJ: Strength Progression
Warm Up
3 Rounds
-
5x Kettlebell/Dumbbell Front Squat – Start light and increase load as you warm up
-
5x Kettlebell/Dumbbell Push Press – Start light and increase load as you warm up
-
Lat + Pec Stretch
-
Instep Stretch
Training
5 Rounds, Every 90 Seconds …
-
40% Max Rep Kettlebell/Dumbbell Front Squat – 12/16kg or 25/35#
On “Go” complete your prescribed KB/DB Front Squat reps as fast as you can. The faster you finish, the more time you’ll get before the next round begins.
5 Rounds, Every 90 Seconds …
-
40% Max Rep 2-Handed Kettlebell/Dumbbell Clean and Strict Press – 12/16kg or 25/35#
5 Rounds, Every 90 Seconds …
-
40% Max Rep Pull Ups
5 Rounds, Every 90 Seconds …
-
40% Max Rep Weighted Sit Ups – 8/12 kg kettlebell or 15/25# Dumbbell
5 Rounds, Every 90 Seconds …
-
40% Max Rep Sandbag Good Morning – 40/60#
-
Foam Roll Legs, Low Back
FRIDAY SESSION 5
OBJ: Work Capacity
Training
20 Minute Grind …
-
3x Sandbag Cross Clean – 40/60#
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50m Shuttle with Sandbag – Down 25m, back 25m
-
50m Shuttle Unloaded – Down 25m, back 25m
“Grind” = work steadily, not frantically for the prescribed time or rounds. Pace yourself, but don’t stop to rest
2 Rounds:
-
Instep Stretch
-
Lat + Pec Stretch
-
Foam Roll Low Back
COMMON QUESTIONS:
Do you have any reviews or testimonials from athletes who have used your Athlete's Subscription
Yes. Click HERE.
Is it true you guarantee your stuff works?
Yes. If you purchase an Athletes’ Subscription, follow the training sessions as prescribed, and are not satisfied with the quality of the programming, notify us within 30 days of purchase, and we’ll refund your money, no questions asked.
How is MTI programming different than CrossFit?
This is a common question. Read our answer HERE.
You have a lot of competitors. Why should I choose MTI?
MTI is driven to improve mountain and tactical athletes' mission performance and keep them safe. This emphasis and focus on mission performance sets us apart. Read about more that sets us apart HERE.
If I purchase a plan or subscription, how do I access the programming?
All of our plans are online, accessible via username and password.
You can log in through our →Website or Mobile App →IOS and Android.
Do you have downloadable .pdf's of the training plans?
No. But you can print the programming, by week, from your browser. You access individual training plans online via a username and password.
Do you have a mobile app?
Yes, we do. Available for IOS and Android.
What is the difference between purchasing an individual training plan, packet of plans or an Athlete's Subscription?
- Plan - Like purchasing the DVD of the first Star Wars movie. You own it forever, including any updates we make to the plan.
- Packet - Like purchasing the DVD's of all the Star Wars movies. You own them forever, including any updates we make to the plans.
- Athlete's Subscription - Like subscribing to Netflix. You get access to all 200+ plan in our library, but lose access if you unsubscribe.
If I purchase an Athletes Subscription Can I cancel on my own, anytime?
Yes.
Do I have to contact MTI to cancel or can I do it myself?
You can do it yourself. Instructions HERE.
If I purchase a subscription and have questions about where to start or what plans(s) to use for my goals, will you help?
Yes. We answer dozens of training questions from athletes weekly. Email coach@mtntactical.com.
If you add new plans or update existing plans after I subscribe will I have access to them?
Yes. We are continuously adding training plans and packets (2-5/month) and updating plans. With your subscription you'll have access to all new plans, new courses and plan updates.
What Equipment is Required?
Click the "Required Equipment" tab to find out what equipment is required for the specific plan you are interested in.
Where do I find unfamiliar exercises?
See our Exercise Library HERE. The Run and Ruck Calculators are listed as exercises.
What about nutrition?
See our Nutritional Guidelines HERE.
Can I see sample training?
Click the “Sample Training” tab to see the entire first week of programming. You are encouraged to do it before purchasing.
What if I have more questions?
Email rob@mtntactical.com