Here's another great question from a bodybuilder who is frustrated and working to break through a plateau. Remember the key to maximizing your progress is for your muscles NOT be used to the same old routine. You must change your routine around constantly so your muscles are being worked in a different way for maximum stimulation.
Hello Mr. Illinois: I'm a mid-level competitive bodybuilder who loves blasting my chest. Recently gains in my bench presses have really slowed down resulting in decreased muscularity and strength. I'm still working hard at the same routine that has produced results in the past. But I seem to have hit a plateau or even regressed a bit. What should I do?
Steve F. Burlington, WI
Answer: Hi Steve. The key to your problem is in the "same routine" part of your question. You're doing the same old thing that your muscles are used to. So how can you expect to make gains? What you need to do is to shake up your routine and shock your muscles into growth. There are numerous ways to do this. Super sets, giant sets, micro-loading, or just plain weight and set variations should all do the trick. Remember your muscles continually need new stimulus to grow.
For starters try using a different weight and rep combination for your bench presses. Then progress to working new chest exercises into your workout You'll be surprised as to how well your muscles will respond to the change. Good Luck.
