Missing a lot of workouts? Starting Strength Coach Grant Broggi gives 5 tips for how to always consistent with your barbell training no matter how busy life gets.
Introduction
Consistency is the cornerstone of any successful fitness regime, particularly when it involves barbell training. Regardless of your specific fitness goals, showing up and putting in the work is what ultimately drives progress. Here are five actionable tips to help you maintain consistency in your barbell training routine.
1. Don't Waste Time
Efficiency in the gym is crucial, especially if you're tight on time. Whether you have a home gym or travel to a local gym, planning ahead can save precious minutes. Pack your gym bag the night before, and once you're at the gym, dive straight into your workout. Avoid distractions and keep socializing to a minimum. Remember, the goal is to maximize the time you have allocated for your workout.
2. Have a Solid Plan
Walking into the gym without a clear plan is a common pitfall. Prepare your workout routine in advance and visualize your exercises. This preparation not only saves time but also keeps you focused and efficient during your workout session. Whether it’s a leg day or a mixed routine, knowing exactly what you're going to do will keep you on track.
3. Choose a Convenient Location
The location of your training facility can significantly impact your consistency. Choose a gym that is easily accessible. If the best-equipped gym is too far away, the time you spend commuting can become a barrier to regular workouts. Sometimes, a less equipped but more accessible gym might be the better choice to ensure you maintain a regular workout schedule.
4. Split Your Workouts When Necessary
If your schedule only allows for short gym sessions, consider splitting your workouts. Focus on completing major lifts or the most intensive parts of your workout when time is limited. This approach ensures that you maintain intensity and volume over the week, even if each session is shorter than ideal.
5. Work Hard Regardless of Time Constraints
The intensity of your workout often matters more than its duration. If you find yourself with limited time, increase the intensity of your workout. This could mean adding more weight to your lifts or reducing the rest intervals between sets. Hard, focused work in a short period can often be just as effective as a longer, less intense session.
Conclusion
Maintaining consistency in barbell training doesn't require perfection every day; it requires a commitment to show up and work hard, regardless of circumstances. By implementing these tips, you can ensure that every minute you spend training moves you closer to your fitness goals. Remember, consistent actions create consistent results.