# Build your first program

Updated: 2026-07-26
Canonical page: https://methodapp.net/docs/build-your-first-program
Docs index: https://methodapp.net/docs

Go from an empty builder to a scheduled training week without getting lost in set-level detail too early.

The most common way to stall in the builder is to perfect week one before week
two exists. Build the shell first, then fill it in.

  1. **Create the program** From Library, choose **New Program**. Give it a name and, if you want, a
    category and description. Everything else can wait.

  1. **Add your weeks and days** Build the week strip and the training day rail before touching a single
    exercise. Match the schedule you actually train. Four days a week means four
    training days.

  1. **Add exercises to one day** Fill in a single day completely: movements, target reps, and load guidance.
    This is where you find out whether the day is realistic.

  1. **Copy the structure forward** Use **Copy Week** once week one reads well, then adjust only what changes.
    See [Copy, reorder, and reuse](/docs/copy-reorder-and-reuse-program-structure).

  1. **Schedule it** Activate the program so it appears on your iOS calendar. Until you do, it
    stays a plan.

## How much detail to add

Advanced prescriptions are optional. Reps and load are enough for most first
programs.

  - **Just starting** Exercise, sets, target reps. Add load once you know your working weights.

  - **Following a written program** Add intensity targets (RIR or RPE) and rest so the logger can show you the
    prescription mid-session. Requires Advanced tracking.

  - **Repeating a block** Save the day as a session so you can import it into future programs.

> **You can change it later.** Editing a program leaves training you have already logged untouched. Past
>   workouts keep the prescription they were trained with. See
>   [Planned vs completed training](/docs/planned-vs-completed-training).