The bench press is without doubt one of the most popular exercises performed in the gym. Literally everyone benches, and it’s often viewed as the benchmark (no pun intended) of upper body strength. So, does it make sense to bench press more often than the standard once a week? Allow me to explain what you … Read more
So, you want to know how much easier bench press is on a Smith machine? In effect, we’re back to the age-old argument – free weights vs. machines. This is not to say that machine exercises are ineffective, as you can still build muscle and strength. However, you’re probably also wondering how much more you … Read more
The leg press, whether seated or incline, is typically viewed as one of the best exercises for quad hypertrophy. However, this doesn’t mean it comes without its problems, and lower back pain is quite common. With that being said, if you adhere to a few “rules” you’ll be able to take the pressure off your … Read more
If your calves hurt whenever you squat it’s likely this is affecting you both in terms of good technique and the amount of weight lifted. However, it’s actually more of a common problem than you’d think. In fact, an extremely high percentage of lifters experience calf pain when they squat. Does this mean you’re doing … Read more
I studied 1,198 gym-goers to determine their preferred time of the day to workout. In this article, you’ll learn the favoured times of the day that people workout and their reasons why. Additionally, I also wish to discuss numerous scientific exercise-related studies which provide a “best” or optimal” time of the day to workout. Let’s … Read more
Squats are often referred to as “The King of Lower Body Exercises”, and it’s easy to see why. They are a compound exercise that target many major muscle groups, including the quadriceps, glutes, and hamstrings. So, it’s perfectly normal to feel sore after squats. That being said, you would think that you’re most likely to … Read more
The incline bench press is typically the “go-to” exercise for upper pecs. And with good reason, as it hits the upper part of the chest to great effect I would hazard a guess that most trainees train incline bench in any one of 15-degree increments, i.e 15, 30, 45, or 60 degrees. But, as it … Read more
Bulgarian split squats must rate as one of the best lower-body exercises ever. They are essentially a squat, but also have many similarities to lunges. That being said, have you ever noticed that Bulgarian split squats are so much tougher than conventional squats and lunges? Don’t worry, I’m actually writing this article to make myself, … Read more
Personally, I prefer the Bulgarian split squat to the traditional barbell back squat. Once you’re able to load the movement with substantial weight you’ll see some pretty impressive lower body gains. Plus, it can help to prevent or correct muscle imbalances which may have occurred through years of “normal” squatting. But, one question always comes … Read more
Lunges are a fantastic exercise for improving leg strength, balance and stability. Plus, they’re a great way to identify any potential strength imbalances between your two legs. However, are you better performing barbell lunges or dumbbell lunges? If performed with good form both barbell lunges and dumbbell lunges can produce great results. So, in truth, … Read more