4-Week Dumbbell and Calisthenics Workout Plan for Women

Transform your workout routine with just a pair of dumbbells and your body weight. This 4-week plan is crafted specifically for women aiming to boost strength, flexibility, and overall fitness. Whether you're a busy professional or a stay-at-home mom, this plan blends calisthenics and dumbbell exercises seamlessly into your lifestyle, helping you crush your fitness goals.

  • Duration: 4 weeks (28 days)
  • Schedule: 4 weeks total with 5 workouts per week + 2 rest or active recovery days per week
  • Format: block based strength sessions (complete each block, rest as prescribed, then move to the next block) using dumbbells and bodyweight + finishers on select days (core or conditioning)
  • Levels: intermediate-friendly (best for women who already know basic movement patterns, with progressions by adding weight, reps, rounds, or seconds)
  • Rest between blocks: mostly 30 to 60 seconds on strength blocks, 30 to 45 seconds on core blocks, and 40 to 60 seconds on conditioning intervals (varies by day)
  • Equipment: dumbbells (ideally one light pair and one medium pair or adjustable) + optional bench or sturdy chair, yoga mat, and a small floor space

This program is perfect for women who have some workout experience and are eager to elevate their fitness game. If you've tried fitness before and know your way around basic movements, this plan is your next step. Think of it as a progression from a beginner course, like the 21 day beginner calisthenics workout plan for women.

It's also a great fit for women wanting to incorporate home workouts without needing a gym membership. If you've tried other workout styles and want a change that combines strength and bodyweight training, this is for you. However, if you're new to training, a quick dumbbell fat burner plan for women might be a better starting point.

This plan offers numerous benefits, starting with improved strength. Dumbbell movements help build muscle mass, which supports metabolism and overall health. For example, a dumbbell wall squat can boost lower body strength, making daily tasks easier and helping you feel more capable.

Mobility is another big win. Calisthenics naturally improves control through a full range of motion, and pairing it with smart stretching helps reduce injury risk and improve performance. For practical tips, see this mobility and flexibility guide.

You'll also build better endurance. By mixing strength blocks with conditioning finishers, you improve cardiovascular fitness and muscular stamina. That means everyday activities feel easier and you have more energy throughout the day.

Body composition improvements are another perk. As you build muscle and improve conditioning, you burn calories more efficiently. This combination can help you maintain a healthy body composition over time.

Time commitment can be a challenge. You will need consistent workout slots each week to get the best results. If your schedule feels packed, this article on combining calisthenics and gym training can help you think about smart structure and balance.

Soreness is common when starting a new program or increasing effort. This is a normal response to new training stress. To reduce discomfort, use a gentle cooldown, add light mobility work, and prioritize sleep. For ideas on staying consistent and continuing progress, see how to avoid redundancy and keep progressing.

Equipment can be a limitation if you only have one pair of dumbbells. Having a light and medium pair helps you adjust loads across movements. If you only have one set, use reps, tempo, pauses, and unilateral variations to keep the workouts challenging.

Poor form is the biggest limiter. For example, rounding the lower back during squats or hinges can increase injury risk. Fix this by slowing down, bracing your core, and prioritizing range of motion you can control. This guide on combining calisthenics and gym training can also help you think about movement quality and balanced programming.

Overdoing it is another common issue. Motivation can push you to train too hard, too soon. Watch for persistent fatigue, irritability, sleep disruption, or performance drop-offs. If you see those signs, scale down and add recovery. Read more in how to prevent overtraining.

Lack of variety can stall progress. If the plan starts to feel too repetitive, rotate similar movement patterns, change rep ranges, or adjust tempo to keep progress moving. Use this as a reference: how to avoid redundancy and keep progressing.

Day 1: Lower Body

Block #1
Dumbbell Goblet Sumo Deadlift3 rounds x 15 reps
Glute Bridge3 rounds x 15 reps
Rest60 seconds
Block #2
Alternate Side Lunge (Total reps)3 x 20 reps
Rest50 seconds
Block #3
Dumbbell Swing3 x 12 reps
Rest50 seconds
Block #4
Dumbbell Frog Squat3 rounds x 40 seconds
Leg Kickback (Left Side)3 rounds x 40 seconds
Leg Kickback (Right Side)3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest40 seconds
Block #5
Dumbbell Sumo Goblet Squat3 rounds x 10 reps
Dumbbell Stiff Leg Deadlift (SDL) On Bench3 rounds x 10 reps
Rest30 seconds

You can find the plan in the Gymaholic App:

Block #1
Push Up Release To Superman Lat Pull (Kneeling allowed)3 rounds x 40 seconds
Glute Bridge Pullover3 rounds x 50 seconds
Rest40 seconds
Block #2
Push Up To Plank (Kneeling allowed)3 rounds x 40 seconds
Alternate Superman3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest45 seconds
Block #3
Plank Plus3 x 40 seconds
Rest45 seconds
Block #4
Full Plank Shoulder Tap3 rounds x 40 seconds
Alternate Feet Up Oblique Crunch3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest40 seconds
Block #5
Reverse Snow Angel3 rounds x 40 seconds
Floor Tricep Dip3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest40 seconds
Finisher
Alternate Side Plank Knee To Elbow3 rounds x 40 seconds
Ab Pendulum3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest30 seconds

Rest days are essential for allowing muscles to recover and grow stronger, reducing the risk of injury. They also help to prevent burnout by giving the mind a break, leading to improved long-term performance and motivation.

Block #1
Single Dumbbell Alternate Reverse Lunge (Total reps)3 x 20 reps
Rest45 seconds
Block #2
Dumbbell Glute Bridge3 x 15 reps
Rest45 seconds
Block #3
Single Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift (Right Side)3 rounds x 12 reps
Single Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift (Left Side)3 rounds x 12 reps
Rest60 seconds
Block #4
Floor Dumbbell Neural Grip Bench Press3 rounds x 12 reps
Alternate Dumbbell Front Raise (Total reps)3 rounds x 12 reps
Rest45 seconds
Block #5
Bent Over Alternate Reverse Dumbbell Row (Total reps)3 rounds x 20 reps
Hand Release Push Up (Kneeling allowed)3 rounds x 12 reps
Rest40 seconds
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Block #1
Alternate Double To Single Leg Glute Bridge3 x 12 reps
Rest60 seconds
Block #2
Alternate Glute Kickback Side Sweep (Total sides)3 x 14 reps
Rest60 seconds
Block #3
Seated Good Morning3 rounds x 12 reps
Frog Glute Bridge3 rounds x 12 reps
Rest60 seconds
Block #4
Leg Kickback Around The World (Left Side)3 rounds x 12 reps
Leg Kickback Around The World (Right Side)3 rounds x 12 reps
Rest60 seconds
Block #5
Split Squat (Left Side)3 rounds x 12 reps
Split Squat (Right Side)3 rounds x 12 reps
Rest60 seconds
Block #1
Reverse Snow Angel To Superman3 rounds x 40 seconds
Close Grip (Diamond) Push Up (Kneeling allowed)3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest45 seconds
Block #2
Alternate Superman3 rounds x 40 seconds
Bird Dog Full Plank3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest45 seconds
Block #3
Superman Hold To Lat Pull3 rounds x 40 seconds
Push Up To Plank (Kneeling allowed)3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest45 seconds
Block #4
Pike Push Up3 rounds x 20 seconds
Reverse Snow Angel3 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest40 seconds
Block #5
Side Plank Rotation (Left Side)3 rounds x 40 seconds
Side Plank Rotation (Right Side)3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest40 seconds
Finisher
Full Plank Jump3 rounds x 40 seconds
Straight Leg Oblique Hip Raise3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest30 seconds

Rest days enhance overall well-being by promoting mental clarity and reducing stress levels, which can lead to increased productivity in various aspects of life. Additionally, they support the body's immune system, helping to maintain optimal health and vitality.

Block #1
Dumbbell Walking Lunge (Total reps)3 x 20 reps
Rest60 seconds
Block #2
Single Leg Dumbbell Glute Bridge (Left Side)3 rounds x 12 reps
Single Leg Dumbbell Glute Bridge (Right Side)3 rounds x 12 reps
Rest60 seconds
Block #3
Dumbbell Goblet Sumo Deadlift3 x 15 reps
Rest60 seconds
Block #4
Alternate Lunge To Leg Kickback3 rounds x 50 seconds
Glute Bridge With Abduction3 rounds x 50 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #5
Dumbbell Sumo Goblet Squat3 rounds x 10 reps
Dumbbell Hip Thrust3 rounds x 10 reps
Rest50 seconds
Block #1
Knee Push Up Release3 rounds x 40 seconds
Glute Bridge Pullover3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest50 seconds
Block #2
Alternate Superman To Superman3 rounds x 40 seconds
Jumping Jack To Standing Cross Crunch3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest45 seconds
Block #3
Plank To Full Plank3 rounds x 40 seconds
Body Up3 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest45 seconds
Block #4
Push Up Plus3 rounds x 10 reps
Alternate Straight Leg Lowering (Total reps)3 rounds x 20 reps
Rest40 seconds
Finisher
Cross Mountain Climber3 rounds x 40 seconds
Alternate Oblique Toe Touch Crunch3 rounds x 30 seconds
Side Plank (Left Side)3 rounds x 30 seconds
Side Plank (Right Side)3 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest40 seconds

Rest days contribute to better sleep quality, which is crucial for cognitive function and emotional stability. They also provide an opportunity for reflection and goal-setting, fostering a more focused and strategic approach to fitness and personal growth.

Block #1
Dumbbell Thruster3 x 10 reps
Rest50 seconds
Block #2
Bent Over Dumbbell Reverse Grip Row3 rounds x 12 reps
Close Grip (Diamond) Push Up (Kneeling allowed)3 rounds x 10 reps
Rest40 seconds
Block #3
Floor Alternate Dumbbell Fly (Total reps)3 x 12 reps
Rest45 seconds
Block #4
Alternate Neutral Grip Dumbbell Press (Total reps)3 rounds x 12 reps
Seated Bent Over Dumbbell Rear Delt Fly3 rounds x 10 reps
Rest45 seconds
Block #5
Alternate Dumbbell Step Up (Total reps)3 rounds x 14 reps
Dumbbell Glute Bridge3 rounds x 12 reps
Rest45 seconds
Block #6
Dumbbell Goblet Squat3 x 15 reps
Rest45 seconds
Block #1
Alternate Double To Single Leg Glute Bridge (Total Reps)3 x 20 reps
Rest40 seconds
Block #2
Side Leg Lateral Raise (Fire Hydrant) (Left Side)3 rounds x 15 reps
Side Leg Lateral Raise (Fire Hydrant) (Right Side)3 rounds x 15 reps
Rest60 seconds
Block #3
Single Leg Glute Bridge (Left Side)3 rounds x 12 reps
Single Leg Glute Bridge (Right Side)3 rounds x 12 reps
Rest60 seconds
Block #4
Kneeling Squat3 x 15 reps
Rest60 seconds
Block #5
Alternate Reverse Lunge To Airplane3 x 1 minute
Rest60 seconds
Block #1
Push Up To Walkout Tiger Bend (Kneeling allowed)3 rounds x 50 seconds
Superman Hold3 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest40 seconds
Block #2
Prone Back Extension to Reverse Hyperextension3 rounds x 40 seconds
Hand Release Push Up (Kneeling allowed)3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest50 seconds
Block #3
Alternate Lateral Superman3 rounds x 50 seconds
Reverse Push Up3 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest45 seconds
Block #4
Bear Plank Shoulder Tap3 rounds x 40 seconds
Plank To Full Plank T Rotation3 rounds x 40 seconds
Reverse Snow Angel3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest40 seconds
Finisher
Mountain Climber3 rounds x 30 seconds
Hand Raised Oblique Crunch3 rounds x 30 seconds
Leg Pull In3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest40 seconds

Rest days allow the body to restore energy reserves, ensuring sustained endurance and performance in future workouts. They also offer a chance for engaging in low-impact activities that can enhance flexibility and balance, complementing overall fitness goals.

Block #1
Dumbbell Goblet Squat3 x 15 reps
Rest60 seconds
Block #2
Walking Lunge (Total reps)3 rounds x 20 reps
Dumbbell Glute Bridge3 rounds x 10 reps
Rest60 seconds
Block #3
Dumbbell Side Lunge (Left Side)3 rounds x 12 reps
Dumbbell Side Lunge (Right Side)3 rounds x 12 reps
Rest60 seconds
Block #4
Alternate Single Leg Glute Bridge3 rounds x 40 seconds
Alternate Glute Kickback3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest35 seconds
Block #5
Side Lying Clam (Left Side)2 rounds x 10 reps
Side Lying Clam (Right Side)2 rounds x 10 reps
Rest45 seconds
Block #1
Reverse Snow Angel To Superman3 rounds x 40 seconds
Plank Pistol3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest50 seconds
Block #2
Close Grip (Diamond) Push Up (Kneeling allowed)3 rounds x 40 seconds
Reverse Snow Angel3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest50 seconds
Block #3
Alternate Superman3 rounds x 45 seconds
Plank To Alternate Oblique Hip Raise3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest50 seconds
Block #4
Floor Tricep Dip3 rounds x 40 seconds
Wall Shoulder Tap3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest50 seconds
Finisher
Leg Pull In To Ab Rotation3 rounds x 40 seconds
Straight Leg Oblique Hip Raise3 rounds x 30 seconds
Full Plank Walkout3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest30 seconds

Rest days are crucial for maintaining hormonal balance, which supports muscle repair and overall recovery, while also promoting a healthy metabolism. They provide the mental space needed to cultivate creativity and problem-solving skills, enhancing both personal and professional life.

Block #1
Dumbbell Sumo Goblet Squat3 x 10 reps
Rest40 seconds
Block #2
Alternate Dumbbell Lunge3 x 12 reps
Rest45 seconds
Block #3
Dumbbell Clean3 x 8 reps
Rest50 seconds
Block #4
Floor Dumbbell Press3 x 15 reps
Rest45 seconds
Block #5
Bent Over Alternate Reverse Dumbbell Row (Total reps)3 x 12 reps
Rest40 seconds
Block #6
Dumbbell Press Neutral Grip3 rounds x 10 reps
Alternate Bent Over Dumbbell Rear Delt Raise3 rounds x 10 reps
Rest40 seconds
Block #7
Pinwheel Curl (Total reps)3 rounds x 12 reps
Bent Over Dumbbell Two Arm Tricep Extension3 rounds x 12 reps
Rest40 seconds
Block #1
Reverse Lunge (Total reps)3 rounds x 20 reps
Frog Glute Bridge3 rounds x 15 reps
Rest60 seconds
Block #2
Jump Squat3 rounds x 50 seconds
Lying Reverse Leg Raise3 rounds x 50 seconds
Rest50 seconds
Block #3
Step Up3 rounds x 12 reps
Step Up3 rounds x 12 reps
Rest45 seconds
Block #4
Side Lunge With Floor Touch3 rounds x 50 seconds
Alternate Single Leg Glute Bridge Lateral3 rounds x 50 seconds
Rest50 seconds
Block #1
Push Up Release To Superman Lat Pull (Kneeling allowed)3 rounds x 40 seconds
Reverse Snow Angel3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #2
Single Superman (Left Side)3 rounds x 40 seconds
Single Superman (Right Side)3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest50 seconds
Block #3
Alternate Superman To Superman3 rounds x 40 seconds
Body Up3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest50 seconds
Block #4
Bird Dog Full Plank3 rounds x 40 seconds
Reverse Plank3 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest40 seconds
Finisher
Plank Walk Side To Side3 rounds x 40 seconds
Feet Elevated Alternate Oblique To Crunch3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest40 seconds

Rest days facilitate the repair of connective tissues and joints, reducing the likelihood of chronic pain and long-term injuries. They also offer a valuable opportunity for engaging in hobbies and social activities, enriching personal relationships and life satisfaction.

Block #1
Dumbbell Split Squat (Left Side)3 rounds x 15 reps
Dumbbell Split Squat (Right Side)3 rounds x 15 reps
Rest60 seconds
Block #2
Single Leg Glute Bridge (Left Side)3 rounds x 12 reps
Single Leg Glute Bridge (Right Side)3 rounds x 12 reps
Rest60 seconds
Block #3
Dumbbell Rear Lunge (Left Side)3 rounds x 12 reps
Dumbbell Rear Lunge (Right Side)3 rounds x 12 reps
Rest60 seconds
Block #4
Dumbbell Goblet Squat3 rounds x 15 reps
Glute Bridge With Abduction3 rounds x 15 reps
Rest45 seconds
Block #1
Glute Bridge Hold Pullover3 rounds x 40 seconds
Back Extension3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #2
Reverse Snow Angel3 rounds x 40 seconds
Push Up Plus3 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #3
Superman Hold To Lat Pull3 rounds x 45 seconds
Push Up To Plank (Kneeling allowed)3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #4
Single Leg Mountain Climber (Left Side)3 rounds x 12 reps
Single Leg Mountain Climber (Right Side)3 rounds x 12 reps
Rest50 seconds
Finisher
Mountain Climber To Lateral Jump To Ski Abs3 rounds x 40 seconds
Russian Twist3 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest40 seconds

Rest days play a vital role in maintaining cardiovascular health, allowing the heart and lungs to recover from intense exercise, which can enhance overall endurance and stamina. They also provide a mental reset, fostering a positive mindset and boosting enthusiasm for future workouts.

Block #1
Dumbbell Thruster3 x 10 reps
Rest35 seconds
Block #2
Squat To Alternate Leg Kickback (Total reps)3 rounds x 10 reps
Dumbbell Goblet Sumo Deadlift3 rounds x 10 reps
Rest40 seconds
Block #3
Dumbbell Lunge And Curl (Total reps)3 x 12 reps
Rest40 seconds
Block #4
Dumbbell Superman3 x 10 reps
Rest40 seconds
Block #5
Floor Dumbbell Neural Grip Bench Press3 rounds x 10 reps
Push Up (Kneeling allowed)3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest40 seconds
Block #6
Seated Dumbbell Reverse Front Raise3 rounds x 10 reps
Dumbbell Drag Curl3 rounds x 10 reps
Rest40 seconds
Finisher
Plank T Rotation3 rounds x 30 seconds
Russian Twist3 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #1
Frog Glute Bridge3 rounds x 50 seconds
Alternate Single Leg Up Glute Bridge3 rounds x 50 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #2
Side Sweep Glute Kickback (Left Side)3 rounds x 15 reps
Side Sweep Glute Kickback (Right Side)3 rounds x 15 reps
Rest60 seconds
Block #3
Bench Step Down (Left Side)3 rounds x 15 reps
Bench Step Down (Right Side)3 rounds x 15 reps
Rest60 seconds
Block #4
Side Leg Lateral Raise (Fire Hydrant) (Left Side)3 rounds x 10 reps
Side Leg Lateral Raise (Fire Hydrant) (Right Side)3 rounds x 10 reps
Rest40 seconds
Block #1
Push Up (Kneeling allowed)3 rounds x 40 seconds
Superman Pull3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #2
Knee Plyo Push Up3 rounds x 40 seconds
Superman Hold3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #3
Supine Push Up3 rounds x 40 seconds
Back Extension3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest35 seconds
Block #4
Full Plank Shoulder Tap3 rounds x 40 seconds
Alternate Straight Leg Lowering3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest50 seconds
Finisher
Plank To Full Plank T Rotation3 rounds x 40 seconds
Suitcase Crunch To Russian Twist3 rounds x 40 seconds
Toe Touch Crunch3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest40 seconds

If you find this plan too easy, consider increasing the intensity by adding more reps, sets, or reducing rest times.

Don't hesitate to repeat this plan for another 4 weeks to solidify your progress.

If it still feels too easy, try our intermediate calisthenics workout plan for women.

If you have access to a gym and would like to incorporate equipment into your routine, consider checking our intermediate workout plan for women.

This 4-week dumbbell and calisthenics plan is a fantastic way to enhance your strength, flexibility, and endurance. It's designed to fit into your busy lifestyle while providing a comprehensive workout that targets all major muscle groups. Get started, and enjoy the transformation in your fitness journey. Remember, consistency is key, and every small step leads to big changes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The 4-week plan combines dumbbell exercises and calisthenics to improve strength, flexibility, and overall fitness. It includes 5 workouts per week with 2 rest or active recovery days, making it ideal for intermediate-level women looking to enhance their fitness routine.

While the plan is intermediate-friendly, beginners might find it challenging. It's recommended for those who have some experience with basic movement patterns. Beginners can start with a more suitable program, like the 21 Day Beginner Calisthenics Workout Plan for Women.

You'll need a pair of dumbbells (one light and one medium pair or adjustable), an optional bench or sturdy chair, a yoga mat, and a small floor space. This setup allows you to effectively perform the exercises at home.

The plan integrates dumbbell exercises to build muscle mass and calisthenics to enhance control and mobility. This combination helps support metabolism, reduce injury risk, and improve overall performance.

Yes, improving mobility and flexibility can enhance your workout performance and reduce injury risk. For practical tips, check out the Mastering Mobility: The Ultimate Guide to Flexibility.

No, a gym membership is not necessary. The plan is designed to be performed at home using minimal equipment, making it a convenient option for women who prefer home workouts.

You can track your progress by noting improvements in strength, endurance, and flexibility. For a more structured approach, consider using the Gymaholic App to monitor your workouts and achievements.