Friday, February 27, 2009

Five Simple Guidelines In Bodybuilding

By Melaine R. Watts

A good training program enhances a person's muscle size and strength but also requires adherence to its routines. In most cases, committing to a fitness routine is the hardest thing to do. Bodybuilders and fitness experts usually have workout routines that necessitate motivation and self-discipline from the trainee in order to generate results. This does not mean however, that one can place too much focus on certain muscle groups as it may hinder a first-time bodybuilder's long-term goal. There are some basic principles to consider in before engaging in any training program.

As mentioned by John Little in his book "Beginning Bodybuilding"- there is a prevailing misconception among first time bodybuilders that the more you train hard, the better. In reality though, Little explains that this can lead to underdeveloped muscle mass since your body make excessive corrections as you train too much. The body needs days or even weeks of relaxation for it to repair injured muscles and tissues. On one hand, you will have the muscle gains you wanted once this particular element of the training is optimized. Your bodybuilding's success is ensured with these important guidelines:

1. Set at least four days of rest in a week during intensive workouts. John Little advises beginning bodybuilders to have three days of training per week. The remaining four days can be spent to rest or relax for the injured muscles to recover. You may plan your schedule to ensure that this particular training requirement is met.

2. Focus on good form during each session. Avoid 'cheating' on different exercise routines because your muscles won't benefit from the movement or have a chance to reach full contraction. Decreasing your muscle movements in favor of more reps or sets actually limits your muscle gains, so make sure you complete each movement with good form and involve all muscle fibers.

3. Establish a muscle and mind connection. Both the mind and body are responsible in achieving optimum results in any workout or training program. During exercise, stay mentally focused as this can help you further adjust to your body's capacity.

4. Don't push yourself on your 'off days.' It's easy to get caught up in a momentum of physical activity when you start to get stronger from your workout routine, but you'll want to avoid strenuous activities during your days off. Pushing too hard reduces your chances of recovery and makes it harder to increase muscle mass during future workouts. Let yourself relax and do some light stretches on your days off to reap the rewards of your hard work.

5. Go slowly. Concentration and focus will help you execute each movement of your routine successfully and maximize your muscle gains. Make sure you're lifting the weight and holding it for the same amount of time, before lowering it slowly and exhaling deeply. Again, exercising good form and posture will help you get the most out of each and every move in your routine.

It may take time, perseverance, and diligence to achieve muscle mass and boost the body's endurance but you can adopt these five simple guidelines to gain benefits. You may evaluate your training program and find out if it includes these principles before you start. - 15255

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