Top 35 Slang For Workout – Meaning & Usage

Getting fit and staying in shape is a constant pursuit for many, and the fitness world is no stranger to its own set of slang and terminology. From beasting it at the gym to burpees that leave you breathless, our team at Fluentslang has compiled a list of the top workout slang that will have you feeling like a fitness pro in no time. So, get ready to pump iron and break a sweat as we take you through the ultimate workout language that’s sure to keep you motivated and in the know. Let’s get those gains!

Click above to generate some slangs

1. Newbie

A term used to describe someone who is new to working out or a specific exercise. It is often used in a friendly and supportive way to welcome and encourage newcomers.

For example, a fitness instructor might say, “Don’t worry if you’re a newbie, we all started somewhere.”
A gym-goer might offer advice to a newbie, saying, “Take it slow and listen to your body when you’re starting out.”
In a fitness forum, someone might ask, “Any tips for a newbie trying to get into weightlifting?”

2. PB

Short for “personal best,” this term is used to refer to the best performance or achievement a person has ever achieved in a specific exercise or workout. It is often used as a measure of progress and improvement.

For instance, someone might say, “I just hit a new PB on my deadlift!”
A fitness tracker might display a notification like, “Congratulations! You’ve set a new PB for your 5K run.”
In a workout group, a member might ask, “What’s your current PB for bench press?”

3. Reps

Short for “repetitions,” this term refers to the number of times an exercise is performed in a set. It is a common term used in weightlifting and strength training.

For example, a personal trainer might instruct, “Do 10 reps of squats.”
A workout log might include a column for recording the number of reps for each exercise.
In a fitness class, an instructor might say, “Let’s push for a few more reps on this last set!”

4. Sets

In the context of working out, a set refers to a group of repetitions of an exercise. It is common to perform multiple sets of an exercise with a rest period in between.

For instance, a workout plan might prescribe, “3 sets of 12 reps for bicep curls.”
In a gym, someone might ask, “How many sets are you doing for your leg press?”
A fitness enthusiast might say, “I like to do drop sets to challenge my muscles.”

5. Rest

In the context of working out, rest refers to the period of time between sets or exercises where the body can recover and recharge. It is an essential part of any workout routine to prevent overexertion and promote muscle growth.

For example, a trainer might advise, “Take a 30-second rest between each set.”
A workout app might include a timer for rest periods.
In a fitness discussion, someone might ask, “How long should I rest between heavy lifting sets?”

6. Warm up

A warm-up is a series of exercises or movements performed before a workout to prepare the body for physical activity. It helps increase heart rate, blood flow, and body temperature, and loosens up muscles and joints to prevent injury.

For example, before lifting weights, it’s important to warm up with some light cardio, such as jogging or jumping jacks.
A fitness instructor might say, “Always start your workout with a proper warm-up to get your body ready for exercise.”
A person might ask, “What are some good warm-up exercises for running?”

7. Max

Short for “maximum,” it refers to giving your all or putting in the highest level of effort during a workout or exercise.

For instance, a weightlifter might say, “I’m going to max out on squats today.”
A person might ask, “What’s your max bench press?”
A fitness trainer might encourage their client by saying, “Push yourself to the max and give it everything you’ve got!”

8. HIIT

HIIT is a type of workout that alternates between short bursts of intense exercise and brief recovery periods. It is known for its ability to burn calories, increase endurance, and improve cardiovascular health.

For example, a HIIT workout might involve 30 seconds of high-intensity exercises like burpees or sprints, followed by 15 seconds of rest.
A person might say, “I love doing HIIT workouts because they’re challenging but effective.”
A fitness instructor might recommend, “Try incorporating HIIT into your routine for a more efficient calorie burn.”

9. Cardio

Cardio refers to exercises or activities that increase heart rate and improve cardiovascular health. It typically involves continuous movement that elevates breathing and heart rate for an extended period.

For instance, running, cycling, swimming, and dancing are all examples of cardio exercises.
A person might say, “I need to do more cardio to improve my endurance.”
A fitness enthusiast might ask, “What’s your favorite form of cardio?”

10. Machines

In the context of workouts, machines refer to the various equipment and devices used for different exercises. They are designed to target specific muscle groups and provide resistance or assistance during workouts.

For example, treadmills, ellipticals, and weight machines are all types of exercise machines.
A person might ask, “Are machines better than free weights for building muscle?”
A fitness trainer might say, “Let’s use the leg press machine to work on your lower body strength.”

11. Plates

In the context of weightlifting, “plates” refers to the circular metal discs that are added to the ends of a barbell or dumbbell to increase the resistance. The term “plates” is often used to discuss the amount of weight being lifted.

For example, a weightlifter might say, “I can bench press two plates on each side.”
In a gym setting, someone might ask, “Can you spot me while I add some plates to the bar?”
A fitness enthusiast might post on social media, “Time to hit the gym and stack some plates!”

12. Incline

In weightlifting, “incline” refers to an exercise where the bench or machine is set at an angle, typically between 30 and 45 degrees. The incline bench press primarily targets the upper chest and shoulders.

For instance, a trainer might instruct, “Let’s start with some incline bench presses to work on your upper chest.”
A weightlifter might say, “I prefer incline presses over flat bench presses for building my upper body.”
Someone might ask, “Do you have any tips for improving my incline bench press technique?”

13. Gainz

“Gainz” is a slang term derived from the word “gains,” which refers to the progress or improvement made in terms of muscle mass, strength, or fitness. The term is often used to celebrate or acknowledge someone’s fitness achievements.

For example, a weightlifter might say, “I’m making some serious gainz in the gym lately!”
A fitness influencer might post on social media, “Just hit a new PR. Loving these gainz!”
Someone might compliment a friend’s progress by saying, “You’re looking great! Those gainz are really showing.”

14. Shred

In the fitness world, “shred” refers to the process of reducing body fat to achieve a lean and defined physique. It is often used to describe someone who has low body fat and visible muscle definition.

For instance, a bodybuilder might say, “I’m working hard to shred down for my upcoming competition.”
Someone might ask, “Do you have any tips for getting shredded before summer?”
A fitness enthusiast might post progress pictures on social media with the caption, “Making progress on my shred journey!”

15. Pump

In weightlifting, “pump” refers to the temporary increase in muscle size and blood flow that occurs during and immediately after a workout. It is often described as a tight and full feeling in the muscles.

For example, a weightlifter might say, “I love the feeling of getting a good pump in my biceps.”
Someone might ask, “How do I maximize the pump during my workouts?”
A fitness instructor might explain, “The pump is a sign that you’re effectively targeting and activating your muscles.”

16. Beast mode

– For example, “I’m going into beast mode for this workout, no holding back!”

A trainer might encourage their client by saying, “Tap into your beast mode and give me five more reps!”
After a tough workout, someone might say, “I feel like I was in beast mode today, I gave it my all.”

17. Sweating it out

– For instance, “I’m going to the gym and sweating it out on the treadmill.”

Someone might say, “I had a great workout today, I was really sweating it out!”
After a hot yoga class, a person might say, “I feel so refreshed after sweating it out in that class.”

18. Grind

– For example, “I’m hitting the gym every day and grinding towards my goal of running a marathon.”

A trainer might say, “The key to seeing progress is to stay consistent and grind it out.”
Someone might post on social media, “Just finished a killer workout, grinding towards my fitness goals!”

19. Pumping iron

– For instance, “I spent an hour at the gym today, pumping iron and working on my upper body.”

A weightlifter might say, “I love the feeling of pumping iron and building strength.”
Someone might post a gym selfie with the caption, “Pumping iron and getting those gains!”

20. Swole

– For example, “Check out those biceps, he’s looking swole!”

Someone might say, “I’ve been hitting the gym hard and getting swole.”
After a tough workout, a person might say, “Feeling swole and pumped up!”

21. Burn

When someone says they feel the “burn,” they are referring to the sensation of their muscles working hard during exercise. It can also be used to describe the feeling of soreness that comes after a tough workout.

For example, “I did so many squats yesterday, my legs are feeling the burn today.”
A fitness instructor might say, “If you want to see results, you’ve got to push yourself until you feel the burn.”
Someone might post on social media, “Just finished a killer workout and I’m definitely feeling the burn!”

22. DOMS

DOMS refers to the muscle soreness that occurs 24-48 hours after a tough workout. It is the result of small tears in the muscle fibers and is often a sign that the muscles are adapting and getting stronger.

For instance, “I can’t believe how sore I am today! Must be DOMS from yesterday’s workout.”
A fitness enthusiast might say, “I love that feeling of DOMS because it means I really challenged myself.”
Someone might ask for advice, “Any tips for reducing DOMS? I’m so sore after every workout!”

23. Grunt

When someone grunts during a workout, they are making loud noises to help them push through a difficult lift or exercise. It is often seen as a way to increase focus and intensity.

For example, “I always grunt when I’m doing heavy deadlifts – it helps me stay focused.”
A gym-goer might say, “I hate when people grunt loudly in the gym – it’s so distracting.”
Someone might post on social media, “Just hit a new PR on bench press and definitely let out a grunt!”

24. Fit fam

Fit fam refers to a group of people who are passionate about fitness and support each other in their health and wellness journeys. It can include friends, family, or even online communities.

For instance, “Shoutout to my fit fam for always pushing me to be my best.”
A fitness influencer might say, “Joining a fit fam can be a game-changer for staying motivated and accountable.”
Someone might post on social media, “Looking for a new fit fam – who’s in?”

25. Pumped up

When someone says they are “pumped up,” they are referring to the feeling of excitement and energy they have before a workout. It can also describe the physical sensation of increased blood flow and muscle fullness.

For example, “I’m so pumped up for this workout – let’s crush it!”
A fitness enthusiast might say, “I love that pumped up feeling – it helps me push through tough workouts.”
Someone might post on social media, “Just had an amazing pre-workout meal and feeling super pumped up!”

26. Sweating bullets

This phrase is used to describe someone who is sweating heavily during a workout or physical activity. It implies that the person is working extremely hard and exerting a lot of effort.

For example, “After running five miles, I was sweating bullets.”
During a high-intensity workout, someone might say, “I’m sweating bullets right now.”
A person might comment on their intense workout session, “I always sweat bullets when I do HIIT workouts.”

27. Gym rat

This term is used to describe someone who is a regular and dedicated visitor to the gym. It implies that the person is committed to their fitness routine and spends a significant amount of time working out.

For instance, “John is a gym rat. He’s at the gym every day.”
When discussing fitness goals, someone might say, “I want to become a gym rat and make exercise a daily habit.”
A person might comment on their friend’s dedication, “She’s a true gym rat. She never misses a workout.”

28. Hitting the gym

This phrase is used to describe the action of going to the gym for a workout session. It implies that the person is actively engaging in physical exercise.

For example, “I’m hitting the gym after work to do some weightlifting.”
When discussing fitness plans, someone might say, “I need to start hitting the gym more often.”
A person might invite their friend to join them, “Want to hit the gym together tomorrow?”

29. Breaking a sweat

This phrase is used to describe the act of sweating during a workout or physical activity. It implies that the person is exerting enough effort to generate sweat.

For instance, “I went for a run and started breaking a sweat after a few minutes.”
During a challenging workout, someone might say, “I don’t feel like I’m working hard enough if I’m not breaking a sweat.”
A person might comment on their intense workout, “I always break a sweat when I do cardio exercises.”

30. Getting ripped

This phrase is used to describe the process of transforming one’s body by building muscle and reducing body fat to achieve a sculpted and muscular appearance.

For example, “He’s been hitting the gym consistently and is getting ripped.”
When discussing fitness goals, someone might say, “My goal is to get ripped and have a six-pack.”
A person might comment on their progress, “I’ve been working hard and can see myself getting ripped.”

31. Shredding

Shredding refers to engaging in intense exercise or training to achieve a specific fitness goal or to get in shape. It often involves pushing oneself to the limit and breaking through physical barriers.

For example, “I’ve been shredding at the gym to prepare for my upcoming marathon.”
A fitness enthusiast might say, “I love shredding through high-intensity interval training workouts.”
Someone might post on social media, “Just finished a killer shredding session at the gym. Feeling amazing!”

32. Crushing it

Crushing it is a slang term used to describe someone who is performing exceptionally well in their workout or physical activity. It implies that the person is exceeding expectations and achieving great results.

For instance, “I was crushing it at the gym today. PR’d on my deadlift!”
A friend might comment, “You’re always crushing it in your workouts. Keep it up!”
A fitness influencer might post, “Crushing it in the gym and in life. Nothing can stop me!”

33. Burnin’ it up

Burnin’ it up is a phrase used to describe exercising intensely and breaking a sweat. It suggests that the person is working hard and pushing their body to its limits.

For example, “I was burnin’ it up during my spin class. My legs were on fire!”
A workout buddy might say, “Let’s hit the gym and burn it up together!”
Someone might post a sweaty selfie with the caption, “Just finished a killer workout. Burnin’ it up!”

34. Sweating like a pig

Sweating like a pig is a colloquial phrase used to describe someone who is sweating profusely during a workout. It emphasizes the amount of sweat being produced.

For instance, “I was doing burpees and sweating like a pig.”
A friend might comment, “You must have had an intense workout if you’re sweating like a pig!”
Someone might say, “I always sweat like a pig when I do hot yoga.”

35. Sweating buckets

Sweating buckets is a slang term used to describe someone who is sweating heavily during a workout. It implies that the person is producing a large amount of sweat.

For example, “I was running on the treadmill and sweating buckets.”
A workout partner might say, “I can tell you had a good workout. You’re sweating buckets!”
Someone might post, “Just finished a killer HIIT workout. Sweating buckets and feeling amazing!”