Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Five Simple Guidelines In Bodybuilding

By Melaine R. Watts

For most beginners, starting a bodybuilding program may be a very challenging task primarily because of its high demands. One, it requires you to commit to a routine in order to achieve your desired results. Many experts in this area would ask you be determined and self-motivated in following a specific workout or fitness routine. However, any beginning bodybuilder's efforts may become a waste if he overstrains a specific muscle group. This happens when too many reps and sets are made in a single session. To prevent this from happening, be aware of the basic principles in training effectively.

John Little, the author of the book "Beginning Bodybuilding" explains that most beginning bodybuilders make the mistake of training too hard, too soon. He says that the harder you train, the faster your body overcompensates which means you'll be less likely to develop more muscle mass. It can take days and weeks of 'rest days' for your body to recover from the intensive sessions, but once you optimize this important element of your training, you'll be well on your way to great muscle gains. Here are just five essential guidelines to follow for bodybuilding success:

1. Take at least 4 days off your intensive workout sessions. The general rule of thumb is to train no more than three days per week according to bodybuilder John Little. Organize your schedule so you can meet this important training requirement.

2. Maintain good form and posture when training. Get the most out of your fitness routine by maintaining good form in executing body movements. Cheating on the routines won't lead you anywhere. Your muscles will not fully contract so there will not be any visible results. Likewise, you are not encouraging muscle gains when you lessen muscle movements just to have more reps or sets.

3. Establish connection between your mind and body. Using the mind in moving the body is an important component in any training program because it helps you figure out when to train harder or scale back your fitness routine.

4. Never push yourself too hard during rest days. Strength training yourself for 3 days can surely encourage your body to activate all its muscles. However, you have to relax during your 'off days' or take only light stretches. If you push yourself too hard on straining activities, chances are, your body will have a hard time healing its injured muscles. As a result, it will be harder to increase muscle mass during your workout routines.

5. Move more slowly. This pertains to proper execution of movement in relation to putting muscle gains at an optimal level. Focus and concentration are two essential factors in achieving this. When lifting weights, you may hold and lower it slowly but using the same amount of time and by deeply exhaling.

These five basic guidelines build the foundation of a well-developed muscle mass and enhanced endurance. Though it may take considerable time and effort to get the results you want, ensure that your fitness program cover these essential principles. - 17943

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