I’m often asked for basic tips and simple information that can be digested quickly and applied just as quickly, so here are a few tips that bodybuilding from all levels can use to build muscle and lose fat
Goal setting.
Without goals we are like a ship in the middle of the sea, just drifting away with no sense of direction. It just goes with the flow, so to peak, and if it ever gets anywhere it is just by mere accident. In order to achieve success in our bodybuilding program, our goal should be clearly defined and engrained in our brains. Otherwise, like the boat on the example above, if you get anywhere it will be by mere chance.
Never sacrifice form to lift more weight.
We are in the business of stimulating muscle so weights are just the tools we use to induce stimulation; we are not powerlifters. Also, focus on really squeezing the muscle you’re training. The way I see it, focusing and squeezing is much more important than the amount of weight used, and with that manner of execution, you can’t really heavyweights.
Follow well-periodized training program.
Unfortunately, many people who are just getting started make the mistake of either choosing a training routine that is too advanced for their level or simply goes to the gym without any training plan. Too much too soon leads to injury and just going from machine to machine without any set routine just leads to marginal results at best. The cure to this problem is to grab a sensible training routine that fits your training level and execute it day in and day out.
If you want results, do not neglect the nutrition component.
Without a proper diet to go along with your training program, you will fail to lose body fat and gain muscle. Nutrition is what gives us the raw materials for recuperation, energy, and grow. Therefore, it is important that you get familiarized with the characteristics of a good diet and apply those principles in order to ensure getting the amazing gains that you are looking for. And along these lines, if you are looking to have abs, nutrition is the main component that needs to be tweaked in order to get those. Ripped abs are a function of low body fat and low body fat is attained through following the proper diet.
Remember to get proper rest.
Muscles do not grow as you work them out. They grow while you sleep. Therefore, sleep deprivation will cost you valuable gains. Ensure a good night sleep every night and avoid staying up late if you don’t need to in order to keep cortisol levels low. Seven to ideally eight hours of sleep each night will not only keep you healthy and more energetic but also will ensure that gains keep on coming.
Consistency leads to success.
Remember that consistency of execution will lead to ultimate success: If you consistently apply a right training system, nutrition, supplementation and recovery plan you will achieve your fitness goals.
If you fall down, lift yourself up and get back to the action!
Too many people focus on perfection. Therefore, if they miss a workout, a meal, or cheat on their diet, they get all frustrated and toss the whole program. That is the equivalent of getting a flat tire and puncturing the other three plus the spare! Remember, this game is won through consistency of execution, not through perfection.
Believe in yourself.
No doubt in your mind that you can make this transformation a reality. If not, you won’t be able to achieve your desired results. Believing in yourself is really the first step. If you don’t believe in yourself, who will?
