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NKVD Torture Program
Intermediate–AdvancedFree

NKVD Torture Program

Evil mega-torture squat and bench program based on Russian methods

Vincent Kerler
Vincent Kerler· Aug 2025
iOS & Android

Overview

Length
4 weeks
Days / week
4 days
Level
Intermediate, Advanced
Goal
Strength
Equipment
Garage Gym
Session length
100 min
IMPORTANT: Up the weight for ONLY squat and bench by 5-10 pounds each week depending on what your max is for each lift. So, if you start week 1, day 1 doing squats for 225, week 2, day 1 should be 235, and week 3, day 1 should be 245, and so on. This uses the Smolov jr. system for squat and bench and Pavel’s fighter pull up program for weighted pull ups. Everything else is just what I deem fit for maintenance on the core lifts which you can modify for your preference. You will probably injure and/or make yourself sick doing this program.

Who it's for

Athletes at the Intermediate–Advanced level
Athletes focused on maximal strength
Athletes who can train 4 days per week
Athletes who train in a garage gym (barbell, rack, and basic free weights)

Muscle engagement

Front
Back
Quadriceps
14.4%
Chest
13.7%
Glutes
12.6%
Hamstrings
10.1%
Triceps
9.5%
Lats
8.8%
Upper Back
7.6%
Front Delts
7.3%
Adductors
5.5%
Abs
3.6%
Biceps
3.5%
Middle Delts
2.2%
Lower Back
1.1%
Week 1 Workouts
#ExerciseSetsRepsIntensity
1Bench Press (Barbell)66 reps70%
2Squat (Barbell)66 reps70%
3Standing Behind Neck Shoulder Press (Barbell)3AMRAP@8
4Pull-Up (Weighted)15 reps85%
14 reps85%
13 reps85%
22 reps85%
#ExerciseSetsRepsIntensity
1Squat (Barbell)75 reps75%
2Bench Press (Barbell)75 reps75%
3Trap Bar Deadlift25 reps75%
4Pull-Up (Weighted)15 reps85%
14 reps85%
23 reps85%
12 reps85%
#ExerciseSetsRepsIntensity
1Bench Press (Barbell)84 reps80%
2Squat (Barbell)84 reps80%
3Overhead Press (Barbell)25 reps75%
4Pull-Up (Weighted)15 reps85%
24 reps85%
13 reps85%
12 reps85%
#ExerciseSetsRepsIntensity
1Squat (Barbell)103 reps85%
2Bench Press (Barbell)103 reps85%
3Stiff Leg Deadlift3AMRAP@8
4Pull-Up (Weighted)25 reps85%
14 reps85%
13 reps85%
12 reps85%

Weeks 2–4 are in the app

Download Boostcamp to follow the full program with auto-progression and built-in coaching notes.

Common questions

Yes, NKVD Torture Program is completely free to follow on Boostcamp. Download the app on iOS or Android, find the program, and start your first workout immediately. All 4 weeks are fully unlocked.

This program is built around a garage gym. Make sure you have consistent access before starting, since the progression model assumes you can perform the same movements week over week.

Each session typically takes around 100 minutes to complete. That estimate covers your working sets but doesn't account for warm-up or rest between sets, so budget a little extra time when you're first learning the movements.

NKVD Torture Program is structured around 4 training days per week, with rest days built in to allow for recovery. The Boostcamp app lets you reschedule sessions if your week doesn't go to plan.

The program runs for 4 weeks. The structure is designed so that each week builds on the last, with weights, volume, or intensity progressively increasing as you go.

NKVD Torture Program is available inside the Boostcamp app, free on iOS and Android. Once you download the app, you can search for the program by name. The app tracks all your sets and weights automatically, so you always know exactly what to do next session.

Get started

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Coaching notesBuilt-in cues from the creator inside every workout session.
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Advanced analyticsTrack volume, intensity, and 1RM trends to see exactly how your training is evolving.
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