When it comes to working out, you might find yourself getting bored with the same old exercises. Maybe you’re tempted to switch things up constantly, thinking that variety is the key to progress. DON’T DO IT!!
Here’s the thing: repeating fundamental exercises over and over is actually crucial for making real gains. Here’s a few reasons why that is:
Mastering Form
First off, repeating fundamental exercises helps you master your form. Good form is EVERYTHING in fitness. Whether it’s squats, deadlifts, or push-ups, doing these exercises repeatedly allows your body to learn the correct movements. When your form is solid, you’re not only working the right muscles but also minimizing the risk of injury. Think of it like learning to play a musical instrument – the more you practice, the better you get. It’s the same with exercise. The more you squat, the better your squats will become. (If you struggle with knowing what’s correct and what’s not, hire a trainer….100% worth it)
Building Strength and Endurance
Consistent repetition builds strength and endurance. Your muscles need to be challenged repeatedly to grow stronger. When you perform the same exercises regularly, you’re progressively overloading your muscles, which is key to building strength. For example, if you’re consistently doing bench presses, you’ll notice that over time, you can lift more weight. This is because your muscles adapt to the stress and become stronger. The same goes for endurance. Running the same route regularly will eventually feel easier as your cardiovascular system becomes more efficient.
Tracking Progress
Another big advantage of repeating exercises is that it makes tracking your progress easier. If you’re constantly changing your routine, it’s hard to know if you’re actually improving. By sticking with the same fundamental exercises, you can measure your progress more accurately. Let’s say you’re working on your deadlift. If you do it every week, you can see how much weight you’re adding or how many more reps you’re able to do. This tangible progress is motivating and shows that your hard work is paying off.
Building a Routine
Repeating exercises helps build a routine, which is essential for consistency. When you have a set workout plan with familiar exercises, it’s easier to stick to it. You know what to expect, which reduces the mental barrier to starting your workout. Consistency is key to achieving long-term fitness goals, and having a routine with repeated exercises helps keep you on track.
Perfecting Techniques
Let’s not forget that fundamental exercises are the foundation for more complex movements. Once you’ve perfected your basic squat, for example, you’re better prepared to tackle more advanced variations like the front squat or overhead squat. Repetition ensures that your body is ready for these challenges. It’s like building a house – you need a solid foundation before you can add the fancy stuff on top.
Mental Toughness
There’s also a mental toughness that comes with repeating the same exercises. It can be boring, yes, but pushing through that boredom builds discipline. It teaches you to stick with something even when it’s not exciting, which is a valuable skill both in and out of the gym.
In a world where we’re constantly seeking the next new trend, it’s easy to overlook the power of repetition. But when it comes to working out, sticking with fundamental exercises is crucial for mastering form, building strength and endurance, tracking progress, and maintaining consistency. So next time you feel like skipping your usual routine for something more exciting, remember that repetition is where it’s at. Stay with it, and you’ll see the results you’re working so hard for.