Variation: You wont get different results doing the same things

If you want different results, do different things

Keep the body guessing and avoid plateau!!!

We've all heard the saying "if you do what you've always done, you'll get what you've always got", so why do so many gym goers find themselves stuck doing the same routine and/or attending the same generically structured gym classes for weeks, months even years. When its time to looking at the scales they are left scratching their heads wondering if the scales have broken as their weight hasn't changed.

We are creatures of habit so I understand that if you enjoy something then you'll do it time and again, but the body doesn't work like that. We have been perfectly created to adapt to our environment and the stresses we place the body under. Within 2-3weeks your body will adapt to your workout and it is at that point you need to switch it up and push yourself more with either repetitions or weight. Take your mind back to your 1st proper workout and the aches and pains you felt days after. Also remember after a few weeks, that pain became less crippling after each training session....... That there is the muscles adapting. That aching feeling is known as Delayed Onset of Muscle Soreness (or DOMS to us fitness fanatics), this is created by micro tears in the muscles after a tough workout which the body then repairs itself stronger so that the previous workload can be dealt with better. I have been training for years and I still yearn for DOMS after a workout, I see it as my only indication that I've worked out. I'm the same with all my clients, if after a session they don't feel the ache the next day then I know that their body is telling me that it is time to step it up. I'm always pushing myself and my clients to see how far we can push ourselves (actually how far I can push them) in order to reach our true physical potential.

There is no space for plateau when you vary your workouts, your muscles will respond better to variety and the results can be endless. Every 2-3weeks push yourself a little harder, increase the weight slightly or increase the repetitions. After 6weeks completely switch up your training programme, incorporate something new and not only will you benefit physically but mental stimulus too. It must get highly boring doing the same old thing, not seeing any results, restore the fun and enjoyment into your training. Here are a few ideas of the things I have incorporated into my training to add another dimension. Bikram Yoga (yoga postures performed in 40degrees heat) for improved flexibility & balance,

High Intensity Circuit training for anaerobic fitness and fat burning Sprint sessions at my local running track with my running club STONEiMAGE Runners. Bikram Yoga is fast growing, there are various studios scattered across London and they will offer you a trial period for a reduced price so you can try it out. Circuit training is easy and you don't need much equipment, just follow a method of doing numerous exercises one after another without rest in between. Running Clubs: you're never far away from a running club who will offer you the chance to push yourself with the added group morale and social aspects provided by the other runners, search online for your local club.

I challenge you to get out of your comfort zone and try something new NOW!!!!

Remember........

If you want different results, you must do different things.


Written by

Erron Dussard
STONEiMAGE
@Stoneimage