Strength training remains a subject of debate amongst various trainers within the fitness community, however when looking to building strength there are a number of basic facts that you should bear in mind when looking to designing and implementing this type of routine.
The use of free weights can often add great value within a strength training routine and should be considered within the design or planning phase of such a routine. The reason as to why people may seek to embark upon such an exercise program may vary from one to the next, and is often times based upon personal goals and objectives. This in turn raises an important point that one has to consider, that being the actual formulation, mapping and progression of your own goals and objectives; a process or aspect which is often omitted by many people seeking to improve their level of fitness. The formulation of goals and objectives, and taking into account their starting point is arguably the only way to measure any sort of progress or efficacy of a fitness for strength training routine.
The following facts require that you should be aware of certain points which in turn will allow you to get a better understanding of some of the issues affecting us and within the fitness and strength training perspective.
1.) Consistency is key. Strength training routines based upon the desire of getting back into shape require regular and consistent efforts within the gym, or training environment. One cannot expect some sort of overnight success as this will definitely not happen. Just one minute consider how long it took for you to get out of shape and that may put things into perspective for you.
2.) Variation. The issue of variation within strength training applies to both the variation of the degree of intensity of any workouts, as well as the variation of different muscles and body parts within the routine. Concentrating on a singular area of the body, or muscle may result in muscle fatigue, and ultimately injury and therefore variation within the perspective of areas being worked upon has to be implemented. This therefore calls for specific rest and recovery time. The variation of the intensity of the routines is also essential, especially when one reaches a more advanced training level, based upon the fact that the body will get used to specific levels of activity and one will ultimately reach the so-called plateau.
3.) Incorporate all muscle groups. Although targeted training is certainly a beneficial process within a strength training routine, and as mentioned above the variation between muscle groups is a great way in targeting the various muscle groups, whilst simultaneously incorporating best in recovery periods. The major muscle groups include the biceps, triceps, shoulders, back, chest, abs, quads, calves, hamstrings, amongst others. In order to achieve results from a suitable strength training routine all major muscle groups should be targeted at least three times per week, fitness levels permitting.
4.) Nutritional supplements. The use of nutritional supplements, together with a sensible and suitable diet will assist in achieving your goals within the strength training routine. There are a wide variety of supplements that are specifically formulated to help within this fitness drive and a little research within effective and proven supplementation will aid you in deciding which the right types for your objectives are.
