Does it feel like lately, no matter how hard or how frequently you hit the weights or stair master, you just can’t seem to progress your body any further? You’re stuck on a plateau. Yes, that horrid word!

The exercise routine you’ve been doing has worked SO well that your body has finally adapted to it. So, now what? Yes, you guess it. You need to change it up. But how? More reps? More sets? What about rest periods? Add weight? Should you change the entire routine? What about food intake? Cardio? Hmm... a lot more things to think about than you would imagine. Some people might say, "I change my routine every time, I never do the same workout twice." Okay, and how has that been working for you? Do you think you have been able to make your maximal muscle gains? Or are you kind of stuck in the same rut with minimal progress. 

Here is the point:

You need to give your body a new challenge periodically if you’re going to continue to progress.

It is that simple. That also goes for both strength and cardiovascular training. “Periodizing” your training is the key. Instead of doing the same routine month after month, you change your training program at regular intervals or “periods” to keep your body working harder, while still giving it adequate rest. The critical issue is to know the exact time WHEN to change your routine and HOW to change it so that you can maximize your results in the most efficient and productive way possible. We don't need to waste any gym time here people!