http://body-re-enginering.com/
In part #1 of mass training tactics, we talked about how to properly cycle your training in order to assure continuous gains in muscle size and strength. We discussed the importance of having Active Recovery Phases coupled with Loading and Growth Phases. This month our focus will be on how to properly implement a Growth Phase.
Like we previously mentioned, during the Growth Phase the body is not stressed by volume. This time the stimuli for growth is heavy weights.
During this phase the following three things will happen:
The testosterone levels go through the roof in response to the longer rest in between sets and the heavier weights.
Hypertrophy (muscle growth) occurs by the body increasing the actual diameter of the myofiber (the muscle fiber size) through increased protein synthesis.
Since your body's recuperation abilities were built up to the maximum by the previous phase and the volume has gone down dramatically, these extra recuperation capabilities are used to increase strength and build more muscle mass. The reason the body does this is in order to be prepared for another stressful period like the one it just went through. This adaptation mechanism is the one that ensures the survival of the species.
Modified Compound Supersets
Before we present the routine, we first need to discuss what a modified compound superset is as this is the main technique that is crucial to the success of this program.
In a modified compound set, you pair exercises usually for opposing muscle groups or for opposing muscle movements (e.g. Push vs. Pull). First you perform one exercise, rest the recommended amount of seconds and then perform the second exercise (i.e.: For instance, first do Biceps, then do Triceps).
Then rest the prescribed amount of time again and go back to the first exercise.
A modified superset for Dumbbell Curls and Triceps Pushdowns in which you perform 4 sets of 10, 8, 6, 6 repetitions for each exercise will look like the following:
Dumbbell Curls 1 set of 10 reps
Rest 90 seconds
Triceps Pushdowns 1 set of 10 reps
Rest 90 seconds
Dumbbell Curls 1 set of 8 reps
Rest 90 seconds
Triceps Pushdowns 1 set of 8 reps
Rest 90 seconds
Dumbbell Curls 1 set of 6 reps
Rest 90 seconds
Triceps Pushdowns 1 set of 6 reps
Rest 90 seconds
Dumbbell Curls 1 set of 6 reps
Rest 90 seconds
Triceps Pushdowns 1 set of 6 reps
End of modified superset
If you look at it, you will be resting 3 minutes plus the amount of time that it takes you to perform the other exercise (so you actually are resting a given muscle between 3.5 and 4 minutes). Using this technique of pairing exercises in a modified superset fashion not only saves time and keeps the body warm, but it also allows for faster recovery of the nervous system between sets.
This allows you to lift heavier weights than if you just stay idle for 3 minutes waiting to recover. An additional benefit of this technique is that it saves time plus it follows the "limit rest to a maximum of 90-seconds in between sets" rule.
Putting It All Together
Here is the recommended Growth Phase routine. For this routine, the following applies:
If unable to train 6 days a week, then perform Day 1 on Monday, Day 2 on Wednesday and Day 3 on Friday.
When 4 sets of 10, 8, 6, 6 reps is prescribed, choose a weight where you can perform 10 repetitions. Then on the second set for that exercise increase the weight and perform 8. Finally increase the weight once again for the third exercise and perform 6 repetitions. On the 4th set use the same weight used for the third exercise.
Weeks 1, 2, & 3 - Growth Phase
Day 1 - Shoulders & Arms (Monday/Thursday)
Modified Compound Superset:
Military Press 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Rear Delt Rows (Performed on T-Bar Row Machine, elbows and upper arms away from torso in order to primarily stimulate the Rear Delts and not the Lats) 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Modified Compound Superset:
E-Z Curls 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Lying E-Z Triceps Extensions 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Modified Compound Superset:
E-Z Preacher Curls 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Triceps Dips 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Superset:
Wrist Curls 2 sets x 15-30 reps (No rest)
Reverse Wrist Curls 2 sets x 15-30 reps (No rest)
Day 2 - Legs (Tuesday/Friday)
Modified Compound Superset:
Squats 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Lying Leg Curls 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Modified Compound Superset:
Wide Stance Squats 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Standing Leg Curls 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Superset:
Adductor Machine 2 sets x 12-15 reps (No rest)
Abductor Machine 2 sets x 12-15 reps (No rest)
Superset:
Calf Press 4 sets x 8-10 reps (No rest)
Seated Calf Raises 4 sets x 15-20 reps (30 second rest)
Day 3 - Chest & Back (Wednesday/Saturday)
Modified Compound Superset:
Incline Barbell Bench Press 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Wide Grip Pull-up to Front (Palms facing away from you) 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Modified Compound Superset:
Chest Dips 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Close Grip Pull-up (Palms facing you) 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Superset:
Dumbbell Shrugs 2 sets x 10-12 reps (No Rest)
External Rotations (for strengthening of the rotator cuff) 2 sets x 15-20 reps (No Rest)
Superset:
Hanging Leg Raises 4 sets x 25 reps (No Rest)
Crunches (performed on Decline Bench) 4 sets x 25 reps (30 second rest)
Week 4 - Active Rest
Monday/Thursday
Modified Compound Superset:
(Rest 1 minute after the 1st set of exercise 1 and then do the first set of exercise 2. Then rest a minute and go back to exercise 1. Continue this pattern until both exercises are done for the prescribed amount of sets).
Incline Dumbbell Bench Press 2 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
One Arm Dumbbell Rows 2 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Modified Compound Superset:
Dumbbell Bench Press 2 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Pulldown to Front 2 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Modified Compound Superset:
Bent Over Lateral Raises 2 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Dumbbell Shoulder Press 2 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Modified Compound Superset:
Incline Dumbbell Curls 3 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Overhead Dumbbell Triceps Extensions 3 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Modified Compound Superset:
Dumbbell Lunges 3 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Leg Curls 3 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Squats 2 sets x 10 reps (2 minute rest)
Calf Raise 3 sets x 10 reps (2 minute rest)
Training Routine Notes
Notice on the routine above that some exercises for body parts like forearms, traps, rotator cuff, and inner/outer thighs are still performed for high repetitions in superset fashion (one after the other with no rest in between). The reason for this is because these are auxiliary muscle groups that get enough indirect stimulation from the rest of the basic exercises.
Therefore they do not need to adhere to the same cycling principles that the other muscle groups require. In addition, notice that while we do vary the volume of exercise for Abs and Calves, we still adhere to using supersets and pretty high repetitions. This is because these type of muscles are endurance type muscles and therefore respond better to heavy weights performed for a relatively high number of repetitions.
This is true of the abdominals as well. As soon as you start being able to do more repetitions for the abdominal muscles than what is recommended in the routine, feel free to start adding resistance to the movement. This will bring a quality to the muscle that is not seen on bodybuilders that do not train their abs with weights. Just be cautious with how much weight you initially add as adding too much weight too soon could trigger either a lower back injury or a hernia.
Nutrition
Just as we mentioned on the previous article, nutrition is a critical component to a successful mass building campaign. Since our training volume has gone down, we won't be burning as many calories as we were burning before. For this reason, most endomorphs would benefit from lowering their carbohydrate calories just a bit in order to avoid gaining fat weight.
So for endomorphs (people with a slow metabolism) I would recommend a total of 1 gram of protein (tuna, salmon, turkey, lean red meats, chicken, whey protein, or egg protein) per pound of bodyweight divided equally over 5-7 meals spaced out 2-3 hours apart with 0.8 grams of complex carbs per pound of bodyweight.
Also reduce the amount of Flaxseed Oil from two Tablespoons to just 1 early in the morning (if using Fish Oils, then reduce the recommended amount from last month to two capsules taken three times a day with Meals #1, #3, and #5).
If you have a high metabolism, still adhere to 2 grams of carbs and 1 gram of protein per pound of bodyweight with the 2 Tablespoons of Flaxseed Oil (or ten capsules of Fish Oils). Again, remember that complex carbs such as potatoes, brown rice, oatmeal, veggies are to be consumed throughout the day and a combination of complex and simple carbs (fruits) are consumed for your post workout meal. Protein is consumed in all meals.
Cardio
Still continue to do cardio for twenty to thirty minutes right after the workout (or first thing in the morning on an empty stomach if you wish to train twice a day) for four times a week.
Remember that when used properly, cardiovascular exercise actually aids in the recovery process as well as helping produce fat burning enzymes; something that helps us keep the fat off while we gain muscle mass.
Hugo Rivera
About Hugo Rivera
Hugo Rivera CFT, SPN, BSCE. is a lifetime natural bodybuilder, multi certified personal trainer, industry consultant and fitness expert who not only knows training and nutrition theory, but also applies it on a daily basis as evidenced by the fact that he's always in shape and by his awards and high placings at numerous national level bodybuilding competitions. He is also an internationally known best selling fitness author with a very successful franchise of books called "The Body Sculpting Bibles" which collectively have sold over a million copies. Hugo is also author of the very popular “Body Re-Engineering” e-book, which teaches you how to gain lean muscle mass and get lean without drugs, or fancy expensive supplements, using the secrets he devised after many years of weight problems as a child.For more information on Hugo’s Muscle Building / Fat Loss Program please click on the link below:
Wednesday 26 January 2011
Monday 18 October 2010
The Rambo Workout
Here it your mission, should you accept it (must be completed in order):-
Using a 20kg barbell:
*20x close grip bench press
*20x seated shoulder press
*20x seated push outs (sit upright and pumping the bar out 90degrees infront of you until arms are fully stretched)
*20x upright row
Using 2 x 4kg hand weights / dumbells:
*20x reverse flys (sit upright, start with arms outstretched infront of you and push them outwards until they are stretched out to the sides)
*20x seated alternate arm shoulder press on each arm (looks like you're punching above you)
*20x running motion
Using a 20kg barbell:
*20x biceps curls
*20x chin ups
*20x triceps dips
*50x press ups
*30x triceps dips
*20x single arm clean with 17.5kg weight (start with the weight on the ground and end with it outstretched above your head) on each arm
Using a 20kg barbell:
*20x close grip bench press
*20x seated shoulder press
Using 2x 4kg hand weights / dumbells:
*20x reverse flys
Using a 20kg barbell:
*20x upright rows
*30x biceps curls
*30x press ups
*20x dips
THAT'S IT, THE SLY STALLONE WORKOUT COMPLETE! Time Ranges:
If you complete the Sly 500 within:
Under 10 mins- Superman / a liar, 10-13 mins- Rambo / Rocky, 13-15 mins- Ultra fit, 15-18 mins- Athlete, 18-20 mins- Very fit, 20-25 mins- Good, 25-30 mins- Average, 30-35 mins- Unfit, 35-40 mins- Lazy, 40-45 mins- Severely out of shape, 45 mins+ - You should be ashamed!
Thursday 12 August 2010
REVIEW OF JON BENSON'S 7 MINUTE MUSCLE PROGRAM
If you're wondering if Jon Benson's "7 Minute Muscle" system is effective to build quality mass, or will work for you? Whatever you do...don't buy it until you've read this review!
7 Minute Muscle is a set of online videos that focus on super high-intensity 7 minute weight lifting workouts for men & women and ebook.
Personal Opinion about the program:
Where shall I start? Let's say that 7 Minute Muscle is indeed a great program if you are busy and don't have much time to go to the gym.
This is not quite what I expected to be honest. The key is to use really tough, short bursts in your workouts, which is nothing new to me, and by the way I've heard it all before!
"Do this workout for 5 minutes a day, and get a sixpack! And wake up the next morning and suddenly you've turned into Arnold!" Blah, Blah, Blah!
Also, I wanted to focus on muscle gain, you know, to get arms like Jon's. But, some of the videos were made with women in mind, too. Now don't get me wrong, that's not a bad thing, and I definitely didn't mind watching "Laura" doing these workouts (wow) beautiful!
That said, if you're a female, this product might be one of the best to get if you want to be more toned, or don't have much time to workout.
A good thing with 7 Minute Muscle wich I have not seen often in other programs is the mindset part.
It works with your brain to focus on how to reach your goals everyday, and how to change your mentality to follow whatever program and not fall off of it after 2 weeks.
However, the program contains 3 workout styles:
7, 14 and 21 minute protocols and I have to add this, the 21 minute protocol kicks major ass! and is probably too intense for beginners and intermediate trainers. I had a hard time to get out of bed the next morning after the leg workout, Ouch!!
The 7 minute bulks is set up by 2 Phases. A five minute power phase followed by a 2 minute mass building phase, and these are switched around every other workout on the same muscle group.
Here's what comes with 7 Minute Muscle:
--> 83 page ebook
--> 7-minute method training video
--> Amazing Chest training video
--> Sculpted Back training video
--> Shoulders training video
--> Legs training video
--> Arms training video
--> Butt & legs training video
All videos are hosted and done by Vince Delmonte!
...Here's the deal: I would not recommend buying this program ALONE, unless you're busy and can't spend much time in the gym.
However, I incorporated this system into my existing workout routine, and the techniques I learned helped to increase the intensity of my workouts, keep my heart rate up while lifting weights, and boosted my results really fast!
Interested? Check out the "7 Minute Muscle System" now:
These are some of the coolest parts of 7 Minute Muscle:
--> The quickest workout (that works) you will ever find. Period.
--> Easy to incorporate into an existing routine
--> Very concentrated and effective workouts
--> Easy-to-follow videos explaining each exercise
Overall, the 7 Minute Muscle System is fantastic, but it's not perfect.
I rate it 7.7 out of 10 points
Ray Wong.
Monday 2 August 2010
Mass Training Tactics Part #2
Mass Training Tactics Part #2
By Hugo Rivera CFT, SPN, BSCE.
http://body-re-enginering.com/
In part #1 of mass training tactics, we talked about how to properly cycle your training in order to assure continuous gains in muscle size and strength. We discussed the importance of having Active Recovery Phases coupled with Loading and Growth Phases. This month our focus will be on how to properly implement a Growth Phase.
Like we previously mentioned, during the Growth Phase the body is not stressed by volume. This time the stimuli for growth is heavy weights.
During this phase the following three things will happen:
The testosterone levels go through the roof in response to the longer rest in between sets and the heavier weights.
Hypertrophy (muscle growth) occurs by the body increasing the actual diameter of the myofiber (the muscle fiber size) through increased protein synthesis.
Since your body's recuperation abilities were built up to the maximum by the previous phase and the volume has gone down dramatically, these extra recuperation capabilities are used to increase strength and build more muscle mass. The reason the body does this is in order to be prepared for another stressful period like the one it just went through. This adaptation mechanism is the one that ensures the survival of the species.
Modified Compound Supersets
Before we present the routine, we first need to discuss what a modified compound superset is as this is the main technique that is crucial to the success of this program.
In a modified compound set, you pair exercises usually for opposing muscle groups or for opposing muscle movements (e.g. Push vs. Pull). First you perform one exercise, rest the recommended amount of seconds and then perform the second exercise (i.e.: For instance, first do Biceps, then do Triceps).
Then rest the prescribed amount of time again and go back to the first exercise.
A modified superset for Dumbbell Curls and Triceps Pushdowns in which you perform 4 sets of 10, 8, 6, 6 repetitions for each exercise will look like the following:
Dumbbell Curls 1 set of 10 reps
Rest 90 seconds
Triceps Pushdowns 1 set of 10 reps
Rest 90 seconds
Dumbbell Curls 1 set of 8 reps
Rest 90 seconds
Triceps Pushdowns 1 set of 8 reps
Rest 90 seconds
Dumbbell Curls 1 set of 6 reps
Rest 90 seconds
Triceps Pushdowns 1 set of 6 reps
Rest 90 seconds
Dumbbell Curls 1 set of 6 reps
Rest 90 seconds
Triceps Pushdowns 1 set of 6 reps
End of modified superset
If you look at it, you will be resting 3 minutes plus the amount of time that it takes you to perform the other exercise (so you actually are resting a given muscle between 3.5 and 4 minutes). Using this technique of pairing exercises in a modified superset fashion not only saves time and keeps the body warm, but it also allows for faster recovery of the nervous system between sets.
This allows you to lift heavier weights than if you just stay idle for 3 minutes waiting to recover. An additional benefit of this technique is that it saves time plus it follows the "limit rest to a maximum of 90-seconds in between sets" rule.
Putting It All Together
Here is the recommended Growth Phase routine. For this routine, the following applies:
If unable to train 6 days a week, then perform Day 1 on Monday, Day 2 on Wednesday and Day 3 on Friday.
When 4 sets of 10, 8, 6, 6 reps is prescribed, choose a weight where you can perform 10 repetitions. Then on the second set for that exercise increase the weight and perform 8. Finally increase the weight once again for the third exercise and perform 6 repetitions. On the 4th set use the same weight used for the third exercise.
Weeks 1, 2, & 3 - Growth Phase
Day 1 - Shoulders & Arms (Monday/Thursday)
Modified Compound Superset:
Military Press 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Rear Delt Rows (Performed on T-Bar Row Machine, elbows and upper arms away from torso in order to primarily stimulate the Rear Delts and not the Lats) 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Modified Compound Superset:
E-Z Curls 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Lying E-Z Triceps Extensions 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Modified Compound Superset:
E-Z Preacher Curls 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Triceps Dips 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Superset:
Wrist Curls 2 sets x 15-30 reps (No rest)
Reverse Wrist Curls 2 sets x 15-30 reps (No rest)
Day 2 - Legs (Tuesday/Friday)
Modified Compound Superset:
Squats 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Lying Leg Curls 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Modified Compound Superset:
Wide Stance Squats 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Standing Leg Curls 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Superset:
Adductor Machine 2 sets x 12-15 reps (No rest)
Abductor Machine 2 sets x 12-15 reps (No rest)
Superset:
Calf Press 4 sets x 8-10 reps (No rest)
Seated Calf Raises 4 sets x 15-20 reps (30 second rest)
Day 3 - Chest & Back (Wednesday/Saturday)
Modified Compound Superset:
Incline Barbell Bench Press 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Wide Grip Pull-up to Front (Palms facing away from you) 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Modified Compound Superset:
Chest Dips 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Close Grip Pull-up (Palms facing you) 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Superset:
Dumbbell Shrugs 2 sets x 10-12 reps (No Rest)
External Rotations (for strengthening of the rotator cuff) 2 sets x 15-20 reps (No Rest)
Superset:
Hanging Leg Raises 4 sets x 25 reps (No Rest)
Crunches (performed on Decline Bench) 4 sets x 25 reps (30 second rest)
Week 4 - Active Rest
Monday/Thursday
Modified Compound Superset:
(Rest 1 minute after the 1st set of exercise 1 and then do the first set of exercise 2. Then rest a minute and go back to exercise 1. Continue this pattern until both exercises are done for the prescribed amount of sets).
Incline Dumbbell Bench Press 2 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
One Arm Dumbbell Rows 2 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Modified Compound Superset:
Dumbbell Bench Press 2 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Pulldown to Front 2 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Modified Compound Superset:
Bent Over Lateral Raises 2 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Dumbbell Shoulder Press 2 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Modified Compound Superset:
Incline Dumbbell Curls 3 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Overhead Dumbbell Triceps Extensions 3 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Modified Compound Superset:
Dumbbell Lunges 3 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Leg Curls 3 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Squats 2 sets x 10 reps (2 minute rest)
Calf Raise 3 sets x 10 reps (2 minute rest)
Training Routine Notes
Notice on the routine above that some exercises for body parts like forearms, traps, rotator cuff, and inner/outer thighs are still performed for high repetitions in superset fashion (one after the other with no rest in between). The reason for this is because these are auxiliary muscle groups that get enough indirect stimulation from the rest of the basic exercises.
Therefore they do not need to adhere to the same cycling principles that the other muscle groups require. In addition, notice that while we do vary the volume of exercise for Abs and Calves, we still adhere to using supersets and pretty high repetitions. This is because these type of muscles are endurance type muscles and therefore respond better to heavy weights performed for a relatively high number of repetitions.
This is true of the abdominals as well. As soon as you start being able to do more repetitions for the abdominal muscles than what is recommended in the routine, feel free to start adding resistance to the movement. This will bring a quality to the muscle that is not seen on bodybuilders that do not train their abs with weights. Just be cautious with how much weight you initially add as adding too much weight too soon could trigger either a lower back injury or a hernia.
Nutrition
Just as we mentioned on the previous article, nutrition is a critical component to a successful mass building campaign. Since our training volume has gone down, we won't be burning as many calories as we were burning before. For this reason, most endomorphs would benefit from lowering their carbohydrate calories just a bit in order to avoid gaining fat weight.
So for endomorphs (people with a slow metabolism) I would recommend a total of 1 gram of protein (tuna, salmon, turkey, lean red meats, chicken, whey protein, or egg protein) per pound of bodyweight divided equally over 5-7 meals spaced out 2-3 hours apart with 0.8 grams of complex carbs per pound of bodyweight.
Also reduce the amount of Flaxseed Oil from two Tablespoons to just 1 early in the morning (if using Fish Oils, then reduce the recommended amount from last month to two capsules taken three times a day with Meals #1, #3, and #5).
If you have a high metabolism, still adhere to 2 grams of carbs and 1 gram of protein per pound of bodyweight with the 2 Tablespoons of Flaxseed Oil (or ten capsules of Fish Oils). Again, remember that complex carbs such as potatoes, brown rice, oatmeal, veggies are to be consumed throughout the day and a combination of complex and simple carbs (fruits) are consumed for your post workout meal. Protein is consumed in all meals.
Cardio
Still continue to do cardio for twenty to thirty minutes right after the workout (or first thing in the morning on an empty stomach if you wish to train twice a day) for four times a week.
Remember that when used properly, cardiovascular exercise actually aids in the recovery process as well as helping produce fat burning enzymes; something that helps us keep the fat off while we gain muscle mass.
Hugo Rivera
About Hugo Rivera
Hugo Rivera CFT, SPN, BSCE. is a lifetime natural bodybuilder, multi certified personal trainer, industry consultant and fitness expert who not only knows training and nutrition theory, but also applies it on a daily basis as evidenced by the fact that he's always in shape and by his awards and high placings at numerous national level bodybuilding competitions. He is also an internationally known best selling fitness author with a very successful franchise of books called "The Body Sculpting Bibles" which collectively have sold over a million copies. Hugo is also author of the very popular “Body Re-Engineering” e-book, which teaches you how to gain lean muscle mass and get lean without drugs, or fancy expensive supplements, using the secrets he devised after many years of weight problems as a child.For more information on Hugo’s Muscle Building / Fat Loss Program please click on the link below:
http://body-re-enginering.com/
By Hugo Rivera CFT, SPN, BSCE.
http://body-re-enginering.com/
In part #1 of mass training tactics, we talked about how to properly cycle your training in order to assure continuous gains in muscle size and strength. We discussed the importance of having Active Recovery Phases coupled with Loading and Growth Phases. This month our focus will be on how to properly implement a Growth Phase.
Like we previously mentioned, during the Growth Phase the body is not stressed by volume. This time the stimuli for growth is heavy weights.
During this phase the following three things will happen:
The testosterone levels go through the roof in response to the longer rest in between sets and the heavier weights.
Hypertrophy (muscle growth) occurs by the body increasing the actual diameter of the myofiber (the muscle fiber size) through increased protein synthesis.
Since your body's recuperation abilities were built up to the maximum by the previous phase and the volume has gone down dramatically, these extra recuperation capabilities are used to increase strength and build more muscle mass. The reason the body does this is in order to be prepared for another stressful period like the one it just went through. This adaptation mechanism is the one that ensures the survival of the species.
Modified Compound Supersets
Before we present the routine, we first need to discuss what a modified compound superset is as this is the main technique that is crucial to the success of this program.
In a modified compound set, you pair exercises usually for opposing muscle groups or for opposing muscle movements (e.g. Push vs. Pull). First you perform one exercise, rest the recommended amount of seconds and then perform the second exercise (i.e.: For instance, first do Biceps, then do Triceps).
Then rest the prescribed amount of time again and go back to the first exercise.
A modified superset for Dumbbell Curls and Triceps Pushdowns in which you perform 4 sets of 10, 8, 6, 6 repetitions for each exercise will look like the following:
Dumbbell Curls 1 set of 10 reps
Rest 90 seconds
Triceps Pushdowns 1 set of 10 reps
Rest 90 seconds
Dumbbell Curls 1 set of 8 reps
Rest 90 seconds
Triceps Pushdowns 1 set of 8 reps
Rest 90 seconds
Dumbbell Curls 1 set of 6 reps
Rest 90 seconds
Triceps Pushdowns 1 set of 6 reps
Rest 90 seconds
Dumbbell Curls 1 set of 6 reps
Rest 90 seconds
Triceps Pushdowns 1 set of 6 reps
End of modified superset
If you look at it, you will be resting 3 minutes plus the amount of time that it takes you to perform the other exercise (so you actually are resting a given muscle between 3.5 and 4 minutes). Using this technique of pairing exercises in a modified superset fashion not only saves time and keeps the body warm, but it also allows for faster recovery of the nervous system between sets.
This allows you to lift heavier weights than if you just stay idle for 3 minutes waiting to recover. An additional benefit of this technique is that it saves time plus it follows the "limit rest to a maximum of 90-seconds in between sets" rule.
Putting It All Together
Here is the recommended Growth Phase routine. For this routine, the following applies:
If unable to train 6 days a week, then perform Day 1 on Monday, Day 2 on Wednesday and Day 3 on Friday.
When 4 sets of 10, 8, 6, 6 reps is prescribed, choose a weight where you can perform 10 repetitions. Then on the second set for that exercise increase the weight and perform 8. Finally increase the weight once again for the third exercise and perform 6 repetitions. On the 4th set use the same weight used for the third exercise.
Weeks 1, 2, & 3 - Growth Phase
Day 1 - Shoulders & Arms (Monday/Thursday)
Modified Compound Superset:
Military Press 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Rear Delt Rows (Performed on T-Bar Row Machine, elbows and upper arms away from torso in order to primarily stimulate the Rear Delts and not the Lats) 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Modified Compound Superset:
E-Z Curls 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Lying E-Z Triceps Extensions 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Modified Compound Superset:
E-Z Preacher Curls 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Triceps Dips 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Superset:
Wrist Curls 2 sets x 15-30 reps (No rest)
Reverse Wrist Curls 2 sets x 15-30 reps (No rest)
Day 2 - Legs (Tuesday/Friday)
Modified Compound Superset:
Squats 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Lying Leg Curls 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Modified Compound Superset:
Wide Stance Squats 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Standing Leg Curls 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Superset:
Adductor Machine 2 sets x 12-15 reps (No rest)
Abductor Machine 2 sets x 12-15 reps (No rest)
Superset:
Calf Press 4 sets x 8-10 reps (No rest)
Seated Calf Raises 4 sets x 15-20 reps (30 second rest)
Day 3 - Chest & Back (Wednesday/Saturday)
Modified Compound Superset:
Incline Barbell Bench Press 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Wide Grip Pull-up to Front (Palms facing away from you) 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Modified Compound Superset:
Chest Dips 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Close Grip Pull-up (Palms facing you) 4 sets x 10, 8, 6, 6 reps (90 second rest)
Superset:
Dumbbell Shrugs 2 sets x 10-12 reps (No Rest)
External Rotations (for strengthening of the rotator cuff) 2 sets x 15-20 reps (No Rest)
Superset:
Hanging Leg Raises 4 sets x 25 reps (No Rest)
Crunches (performed on Decline Bench) 4 sets x 25 reps (30 second rest)
Week 4 - Active Rest
Monday/Thursday
Modified Compound Superset:
(Rest 1 minute after the 1st set of exercise 1 and then do the first set of exercise 2. Then rest a minute and go back to exercise 1. Continue this pattern until both exercises are done for the prescribed amount of sets).
Incline Dumbbell Bench Press 2 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
One Arm Dumbbell Rows 2 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Modified Compound Superset:
Dumbbell Bench Press 2 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Pulldown to Front 2 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Modified Compound Superset:
Bent Over Lateral Raises 2 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Dumbbell Shoulder Press 2 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Modified Compound Superset:
Incline Dumbbell Curls 3 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Overhead Dumbbell Triceps Extensions 3 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Modified Compound Superset:
Dumbbell Lunges 3 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Leg Curls 3 sets x 10 reps (1 minute rest)
Squats 2 sets x 10 reps (2 minute rest)
Calf Raise 3 sets x 10 reps (2 minute rest)
Training Routine Notes
Notice on the routine above that some exercises for body parts like forearms, traps, rotator cuff, and inner/outer thighs are still performed for high repetitions in superset fashion (one after the other with no rest in between). The reason for this is because these are auxiliary muscle groups that get enough indirect stimulation from the rest of the basic exercises.
Therefore they do not need to adhere to the same cycling principles that the other muscle groups require. In addition, notice that while we do vary the volume of exercise for Abs and Calves, we still adhere to using supersets and pretty high repetitions. This is because these type of muscles are endurance type muscles and therefore respond better to heavy weights performed for a relatively high number of repetitions.
This is true of the abdominals as well. As soon as you start being able to do more repetitions for the abdominal muscles than what is recommended in the routine, feel free to start adding resistance to the movement. This will bring a quality to the muscle that is not seen on bodybuilders that do not train their abs with weights. Just be cautious with how much weight you initially add as adding too much weight too soon could trigger either a lower back injury or a hernia.
Nutrition
Just as we mentioned on the previous article, nutrition is a critical component to a successful mass building campaign. Since our training volume has gone down, we won't be burning as many calories as we were burning before. For this reason, most endomorphs would benefit from lowering their carbohydrate calories just a bit in order to avoid gaining fat weight.
So for endomorphs (people with a slow metabolism) I would recommend a total of 1 gram of protein (tuna, salmon, turkey, lean red meats, chicken, whey protein, or egg protein) per pound of bodyweight divided equally over 5-7 meals spaced out 2-3 hours apart with 0.8 grams of complex carbs per pound of bodyweight.
Also reduce the amount of Flaxseed Oil from two Tablespoons to just 1 early in the morning (if using Fish Oils, then reduce the recommended amount from last month to two capsules taken three times a day with Meals #1, #3, and #5).
If you have a high metabolism, still adhere to 2 grams of carbs and 1 gram of protein per pound of bodyweight with the 2 Tablespoons of Flaxseed Oil (or ten capsules of Fish Oils). Again, remember that complex carbs such as potatoes, brown rice, oatmeal, veggies are to be consumed throughout the day and a combination of complex and simple carbs (fruits) are consumed for your post workout meal. Protein is consumed in all meals.
Cardio
Still continue to do cardio for twenty to thirty minutes right after the workout (or first thing in the morning on an empty stomach if you wish to train twice a day) for four times a week.
Remember that when used properly, cardiovascular exercise actually aids in the recovery process as well as helping produce fat burning enzymes; something that helps us keep the fat off while we gain muscle mass.
Hugo Rivera
About Hugo Rivera
Hugo Rivera CFT, SPN, BSCE. is a lifetime natural bodybuilder, multi certified personal trainer, industry consultant and fitness expert who not only knows training and nutrition theory, but also applies it on a daily basis as evidenced by the fact that he's always in shape and by his awards and high placings at numerous national level bodybuilding competitions. He is also an internationally known best selling fitness author with a very successful franchise of books called "The Body Sculpting Bibles" which collectively have sold over a million copies. Hugo is also author of the very popular “Body Re-Engineering” e-book, which teaches you how to gain lean muscle mass and get lean without drugs, or fancy expensive supplements, using the secrets he devised after many years of weight problems as a child.For more information on Hugo’s Muscle Building / Fat Loss Program please click on the link below:
http://body-re-enginering.com/
Friday 18 June 2010
Review of Jeff Anderson's Advanced Mass Building Secrets
Advanced Mass Building, the hottest new bodybuilding workout routine to gain muscle mass quickly, has hit the bodybuilding world by storm. After hearing about all the hype I decided to dig into the program in detail and would like to offer my personal Advanced Mass Building review.
Is it for real? Does it really help you gain muscle mass fast? Is it all hype?
These are the three questions I kept in the back of my mind when using my professional education, and experience to write a review on the Advanced Mass Building Secrets book.
At first I did not expect much. I figured it would be just like the many other bodybuilding, add more muscle, ebooks. As I began studying the mass building tutorial I was quickly pulled in by the comparison of a military mission to building more muscle. The analogy made complete sense, and also made adsorbing the material much easier, and even entertaining.
The Author, Jeff Anderson - The Muscle Nerd, was the head fitness trainer for his army platoon years ago. He parallels important muscle building secrets with combat strategies he learned in the military. This made my Advanced Mass Building review much more enjoyable.
The bodybuilding program said building muscle mass is so easy when you first start weight training. However, after the first 6 months, the growth seems to slow down to a screeching halt.
Advanced Mass Building Secrets is all about overcoming muscle growth plateaus to quickly achieve non-stop muscle growth in as little as 20 minutes per workout.
As witnessed in my personal training practice, I do agree that bodybuilders simply hit the gain muscle wall after the first six months of training. According the author, Jeff Anderson, 95% of bodybuilders are doing things completely wrong, and stumbling all over trying to make muscle growth gains.
Advanced Mass Building Secrets is about a “shock and awe” plan to quickly force your muscles to generate more mass. This 4 week super powerful bodybuilding workout routine is about mass building only. There is no talk of core development, getting cut, or improving cardiovascular fitness. This is solely about quickly, and easily building more muscle mass.
As I glance at my Advanced Mass Building review notes, I noticed how much I like how simple the presentation of such a detailed program really is. The mass gain program is laid out easily for anyone to follow.
Do not get me wrong. The muscle building program is quite detailed incorporating such things as hormone surge, pre-exhaustion, supersets, negatives, and many other mass building secrets.
CLICK HERE to access Advanced Mass Building Secrets
It is simply amazing how Jeff Anderson, after extensive research on his mass building workout for over 1 year, incorporates a bunch of proven bodybuilding techniques into a single 4 week mass building program.
I have been a professional fitness trainer for over 25 years, and have never seen a more interesting bodybuilding workout program.
After extensive tests on the 4 week muscle mass generating routine, the results were nothing short of amazing. If you stick to his step by step easy to follow plan, you will quickly witness muscle growth like you have never seen before.
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Click here to discover more about Advanced Mass Building
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Another side note to mention is the routine, professionally laid out in a muscle building workbook, guarantees that you will build muscle or you do not pay. In my Advanced Mass Building Review I like the confidence Jeff has in helping people quickly, and easily develop muscle. He truly puts his money where his mouth is.
The how to gain muscle mass ebook, and workout booklet are professionally created, easy to follow, and fun to read. The whole program is presented in a way of backing up what is said scientifically.
The only question I had with Advanced Mass Building is the 5 workout days a week. Even though they were very short workouts I was concerned about overtraining. However, you will see that the book explains how to easily figure out your precise workout schedule.
My final review of Advanced Mass Building is a 4.5 out of 5.
The whole muscle building program delivers many times the value compared to its small investment. It is a cutting edge bodybuilding workout of great value. I recommend it to anyone wanting to quickly build more muscle mass the scientific way.
Two thumbs up!
If you want to start building muscle mass fast today, then visit Advanced Mass Building Secrets quickly to begin.
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