Changing things around
I’ve noticed a lot of training programs suggest switching up exercises every four or six weeks to prevent stagnation and over training and promote muscle growth. I read a 20-month routine on Bill Pearl’s web page, which really emphasizes change. My question is, if you do a bench for six weeks, then switch to an incline machine bench, will you lose much ground on the regular bench press, or any other exercise for that matter? When should I switch up exercises or rep schemes? Is there a time to do one or another, or just what feels right?
Most mature musclebuilders advocate frequent, thoughtful change… I encourage you to beware of the popular bench press and incline, basics that wreck the shoulders in time. Consider dumbbells for all purposes, muscle strength, growth, shape and safety.
As a young and eager lifter I wisely followed 6 to 8 week schemes. I was strict to certain madness. The muscle and mind needed the order, repetition and discipline. Once the muscle mass and training-understanding was reasonably established, I branched away from rigid training and allowed my instincts to guide me more and more. This methodology dashed boredom, instructed me and gave me training-longevity. If I felt I was becoming haphazard, I’d rein myself in with good old-fashioned routine.
Trust yourself, knowing you’re in control… That is, if you’re in control. Try going with what feels right… what the heck… unless you’re 12…
Godspeed… Dave
Posted on December 15th, 2010 in Bodybuilding by Dave Draper