There used to be a time when to find a really good training program, you either looked through the magazines for routines used by the pros or if you were lucky enough, someone in your local gym knew what they were talking about and set one up for you. Now with literally thousands of training programs readily available with just the click of a mouse, how do you stop yourself from trying all of them without giving your current routine a chance to work? I’ve come up with some “training checkpoints” to help you evaluate the effectiveness of any given training program.
Checkpoint #1: Are you getting stronger?
Strength training was designed for just that; to make the body stronger. By recording your initial poundages or the weights that you use when beginning the new program you give yourself a baseline for which you can compare future lifts. If you are not using more weight or getting more reps with the same weight with each successive workout for the same muscle group, you may want to take a look at the exercises you are doing. They simply may not be hard enough for you and therefore no challenge for you to complete. Will Max-OT make you stronger? Check!
Checkpoint #2: Are you getting bigger?
Bodybuilding is all about muscle, so the reason you’re in the gym is to accumulate as much muscle as genetically possible. How can you tell if you’re getting bigger? I like the idea of using the scale versus body composition checks. If your weight is going up and your body fat is staying the same or decreasing, you are definitely putting on muscle. Make sure you don’t confuse body fat gain with lean muscle gains. Just because the number on the scale is going up doesn’t automatically mean so is your accumulated muscle mass. Will Max-OT help you put on muscle? Check!
Checkpoint #3: Are you reaching or surpassing previously set goals?
Before starting any new program, you should make a conscious effort to establish goals for yourself. Without them, you’ll be wandering around aimlessly with no clear path and no distinct ending in sight. Your goals should encompass all the things that are important to you not only physique wise but also should include how you feel about yourself and your progress. Added confidence is a sure sign things are going in the direction you want with your training, and if you find yourself itching to get back in the gym, your program is a great fit for you. Will Max-OT improve self-esteem and help surpass all your goals? Check!
Keep these three checkpoints in mind as you progress through your training. I know I was subtle with this and if you didn’t pick up on it, I’ll reiterate it again. Training under the principles of Max-OT will give you the ultimate training experience. Sign up for your free 12-week online training course on the AST Sports Science website and never look back again. A bigger, stronger and more confident future awaits!
