I've been experimenting with differant types of exercises, workouts and schemes for years. I mostly experiment in the winter months. Reason I do this is because I want to see what works for me and to be able to share my experiences when possible.
But many programs are very complicated, with lots of exercises that are complicated to use. Rest, work schemes and all these little compensation moves to balance out what you are doing. For me simpler is better. I tend to want to do everything but by making things simpler with less exercises I can get better results. I do like some bodybuilding type routines sometimes but I try to keep the exercises low.
How many Exercises do You prefer or feel You need?
I prefer to load the major agonist/antagonist muscle groups. So I perform total 15-20 different SR exercises (co-contractions and exercises with a stick, 3 sets each). Total time is 50-60 min.
You know Greg, I much rather stick to a minumalist program but my right shoulder gets funny. It is possible for me if I do some self resistance or Light DB shoulder exercises. As You know I'm an electric trainer. That's one of the reasons I like a structured plan because I tend to stick to it much better.
My personal opinion is that if you have a row, a push-up variation, a sit-up or crunch variation, some sort of squat or step-up, and a neck exercise, you've got all of your bases covered. I opt for a row as opposed to a pull-up, because with the row you are working the rear deltoid and rotator cuff as well as the upper back.
For example, my basic template for the past few weeks has been push-ups and sit-ups one workout, alternated with step-ups and pull-ups the other. I hasten to add I also do a lot of tension style exercises for the shoulders, arms, neck and other muscles; so I do more than just the basic four. You could do well on just those four exercises however.