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The Wolverine Workout: 4 Weeks To Shred Like Hugh Jackman

The workout that keeps the actor shredding his physique (and the big screen) as Wolverine.

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  • 4 weeks

  • 35

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Hugh Jackman in a boxing stance during Wolverine training
Ben Watts
Hugh Jackman in a boxing stance during Wolverine training
Ben Watts

You want to build a physique that commands attention, but generic workout plans leave you frustrated. The Wolverine workout delivers a battle-tested blueprint for dramatic muscle growth and fat loss.

Hugh Jackman’s superhero body transformation was the result of strategic training and relentless dedication. Below, MUSCLE & FITNESS breaks down the exact approach that sculpted one of Hollywood’s most impressive physiques.

The Wolverine Workout Routine Explained

The Hugh Jackman workout routine centers on progressive overload and compound movements. You’ll focus on exercises that recruit multiple muscle groups simultaneously. This approach accelerates growth while building functional strength.

The Wolverine training program emphasizes controlled, heavy lifting. Key exercises include barbell bench presses, deadlifts, back squats, weighted pull-ups, and barbell rows. Progressive overload drives your results by starting each week of the month-long program by lifting 60% to 75% of your working one-rep max.

Each week, you increase weight while decreasing reps. By week three, you’re hitting 90% for low-rep sets. Week four serves as a deload with lighter weights and higher reps.

Percentages for Week 1 (5 Reps)

60% of W1RM 65% of W1RM 75% of W1RM 75% of W1RM
Set 1 Set 2 Set 3 Set 4

Percentages for Week 2 (4 Reps)

65% of W1RM 75% of W1RM 85% of W1RM 85% of W1RM
Set 1 Set 2 Set 3 Set 4

Percentages for Week 3 (3 reps)

70% of W1RM 80% of W1RM 90% of W1RM 90% of W1RM
Set 1 Set 2 Set 3 Set 4

Percentages for Week 4 (10 reps)

40% of W1RM 50% of W1RM 60% of W1RM 60% of W1RM
Set 1 Set 2 Set 3 Set 4

Why Hugh Jackman’s Physical Change Turned Heads

Jackman’s celebrity workout plan produced age-defying results. At 55, he achieved his most shredded physique for Deadpool and Wolverine. The actor consumed 6,000 calories daily during bulking, focusing on whole foods like chicken, tilapia, and vegetables.

The four-week shred workout cycles between strength work and metabolic conditioning. You build power during strength phases, then strip fat through strategic cardio.

Fueling Wolverine: The Diet Behind the Transformation

Your superhero body transformation depends equally on nutrition and training. Jackman followed a 16/8 intermittent fasting schedule, consuming all calories within an eight-hour window. This approach enhanced growth hormone production and improved insulin sensitivity.

Protein intake must support recovery. Jackman consumed lean proteins at every meal, including chicken, fish, and grass-fed beef. Carbohydrate timing maximized performance by focusing this intake before 3 p.m. on training days.

Staying Mentally Strong and Motivated Through the Process

Mental toughness separates success from failure during these challenging transformations. Jackman used visualization techniques, picturing himself as Wolverine during brutal sessions. Preparation determines results, as Jackman spent six months exclusively focused on training and nutrition.

Transform With MUSCLE & FITNESS

The Wolverine workout represents a proven approach to building exceptional muscle. Start your transformation today by learning more from MUSCLE & FITNESS.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to common questions about the Wolverine workout and building muscle effectively.

Q1: How Long Did Hugh Jackman Train To Get in Shape for Wolverine?

A: Jackman trained for six months exclusively before filming began.

Q2: Is Hugh Jackman’s Workout Routine Suitable for Beginners?

A: Beginners should start with lighter weights and master proper form first.

Q3: Is Taking Protein Powder Essential for Fitness Results?

A: Protein powder offers convenience but isn’t essential.

Q4: What Role Does Sleep Play in Building Muscle?

A: Sleep is when muscle repair and growth occur. Aim for seven to nine hours nightly to maximize recovery and hormone production.

Q5: Do I Have To Stick to a Strict Diet To Bulk Up?

A: Consistency matters more than perfection. Focus on hitting protein targets and maintaining a caloric surplus. The Wolverine workout requires strategic nutrition but allows for flexibility.

Routine

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Day 1

Exercise
Equipment
Sets
Reps
Rest
Exercise 4 of 35

Cuban Press

Equipment
Sets
4
Reps
10
Rest
--
Exercise 9 of 35

Rear-Delt Flye

Equipment
Sets
3
Reps
8
Rest
--
Exercise 10 of 35

Overhead Press

Equipment
Sets
3
Reps
8
Rest
60 sec

Day 2

Exercise
Equipment
Sets
Reps
Rest
Exercise 11 of 35

Back Squat

Equipment
Barbell, Squat Rack
Sets
4
Reps
5,4,3,10
Rest
--
See percentage chart.
Exercise 13 of 35

45-Degree Single-Leg Press

Equipment
Sets
4
Reps
10
Rest
--
Perform 4 sets per leg.

Day 3

Exercise
Equipment
Sets
Reps
Rest
Exercise 17 of 35

Weighted Pullup

Equipment
Dip Belt, Pullup Bar, Weight Plates
Sets
4
Reps
5,4,3,10
Rest
--
See percentage chart.
Exercise 18 of 35

Single-Arm Dumbbell Row

Equipment
Sets
4
Reps
12
Rest
--
Exercise 19 of 35

Bodyweight Row

Equipment
Sets
4
Reps
10
Rest
--
Exercise 21 of 35

Zottman Curl

Equipment
Sets
4
Reps
8
Rest
--
Exercise 23 of 35

Pronated-Grip Straight Bar Curl

Equipment
Sets
4
Reps
8
Rest
60 sec

Week 4

Exercise
Equipment
Sets
Reps
Rest
Exercise 25 of 35

Dumbbell Bench Press

Equipment
Bench, Dumbbells
Sets
3
Reps
6+6+6
Rest
--
Start on a steep incline, perform 6 reps, reduce incline; perform another six, then go flat for the final six reps.
Exercise 26 of 35

Cable Flye

Equipment
Sets
4
Reps
10
Rest
--
How to
Perform high to low.

Day 5

Exercise
Equipment
Sets
Reps
Rest
Exercise 32 of 35

Romanian Deadlift

Equipment
Barbell
Sets
4
Reps
10
Rest
--
Exercise 35 of 35

Barbell Landmine

Equipment
Sets
4
Reps
10
Rest
--
Alternate sides, 10 each side.
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