Sometimes when we approach our weight loss or muscle building goals, we develop a routine. That routine may work for us for a little while, but there will come a time when we hit a (Exercise) plateau.
(Exercise) Plateau/homeostasis : A level at which the body stops responding to a certain activity.
See, the body is highly adaptable. It always wants to find the most efficient way to perform tasks. It will allocate more blood flow and oxygen to certain muscles that perform repetitive tasks, or use fat stores for energy to accomplish…..depending on the goal trying to be obtained. Once the body can perform that task without strain on the system, it no longer has to adapt. When it no longer has to adapt, you no longer reap the benefits.
What must be done? One of three things, evaluate your nutrition habits, change your exercise routine,or decondition the body by taking a two week break from the performed activity. My recommendation is to change the routine. Present the body with a new challenge to adapt to……..Plain English coming in 3,2,1….If you’re running on the treadmill for 45 min without taking a break, and your body isn’t changing anymore, you need to cut calories, or do a different activity that you aren’t used to. If you’re benching 225lbs., 15 times with now problem, and you can’t get any bigger, then its time to add more weight (only 10lb increments). This is called “muscle confusion”
One thing I ask my clients is “if your body is used to it, why should it change?” So if you can jog for 30min at a good pace, but your goal is to lose weight (not a long distance jogger),then maybe its time to start running. Maybe its time to start lifting. Maybe its time to start swimming. There are so many activities to choose from to achieve your goals, the question is “will you step outside your comfort zone and try something new?” I’ve posted some different activities in the past, but ultimately its up to you to change your routine from what you’re used to, to something that presents a different challenge.
~its about what YOU see in the mirror~
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