Strength training plateau Topic


I have a set of interchangeable weights, and for the exercises I'm comfortable doing, I've reached the max weight and feel a fitness plateau. Are there ways to increase strength without increasing the amount of resistance? I've tried increasing the number of reps with the heaviest weight but workouts are already long and boring as is.

Same with body weight exercises. Apart from variations (not all forms of pushups agree with my wrists for example) would building strength simply involve doing more? Doing them faster?

Thanks!


Funny. I was just talking to a trainer about the exact same thing. Need to change it up. Try alternating upper and lower with the weights and between reps only about 10-15 seconds. Maybe that will help a bit


One way to add resistance without adding weight is to use resistance bands WITH the weights. For instance; if you are doing dead lifts, loop a resistance band around the ends of the bar, step onto the band then do the dead lifts. The additional resistance from the band on the bar will make it more challenging. Here is an article about the technique.

https://www.shape.com/fitness/tips/resistance-bands-fake-heavier-weights


Have you looked at EMOM workouts?
https://www.mensjournal.com/health-fitness/emom-workouts-everything-you-need-to-know/


Simplest straight forward answer is no. Unless you plan to progressively overload when resistance training you will not gain strength by using the same weight (regardless of reps/sets)


Try slowing down your movement to say an 8 or 10 second count for each rep


Today was able to get in some exercises and weight training 👍🏋️‍♀️


I too have a limited amount of weight bars. I started doing 1 x. 12.
Then I went to 2 x 12. Then 3 x 12. Yes way too much time... And now I'm trying 2 x 15 with the extra time I do step-ups, hope this helps. I love my 9, 12, 18 and 24 pound weight bars!


What I dont understand about weight training is that people must hit a maximum at some point in time. However, that has never been explained to me.


Hi CeliaBoston - the way to prevent that is to always be adding variety to your strength training. Varying your exercises, weights & even your tempo all work to engage the muscles in different ways. Of course no one is likely to be able to curl a 100lb weight, varying the way you stress the muscles allows for constant improvement.

Strength training plateau