You’ve probably found yourself asking, “Is it really necessary to do the Decline Bench Press?” If there’s one thing we all want it’s a strong, muscular, pumped set of pecs (okay, and bulging biceps too). So, pretty much at the beginning of every week, Monday is chest day. And of course you head straight over … Read more
The question often arises, “Is it necessary to clench your glutes at the peak of a squat?” You’ll typically be told time-and-time again to “squeeze your glutes” when you squat. Initially, it’s difficult to determine when you should be doing this, as it doesn’t always feel completely natural. However, most people agree that you should … Read more
The query, “Are Shrugs Worth Doing?” is often asked. When it comes to shrugs there are two very clear camps. Those who swear by doing shrugs for trap development and those who claim they have absolutely no effect. Look, we all want a great set of looking traps. In fact, I’ve often heard traps described … Read more
It was surprising to see how frequently this question popped up: “Is it Okay to Do Biceps Before Back Day?” However, I guess we all have different training schedules. Plus, our bodies typically react differently to exercise. With that being said, something doesn’t feel quite right about training biceps before back day, does it? So, … Read more
I’m sure I’m not alone in questioning, “Is it fine to work on shoulders the day following a back workout?” If you’re using a typical “bro-split”, it can often be difficult to decide what order to train the muscle groups. I mean, it seems that certain muscle groups impact others. So, when you initially look … Read more
Several lifters have inquired, “Is it possible to work out my chest and legs on the same day?” I guess you’re either looking to mix things up a little in the gym or simply trying to find the best combination of exercises in the time you have available. There are certain muscle groups that seem … Read more
Beginners can gain muscle from doing bodyweight squats. However, an advanced trainee, who already has substantial leg mass through resistance training, will find it difficult to build muscle through bodyweight squats alone. That being said, extremely high-rep bodyweight squat workouts will eventually switch from recruiting slow-twitch muscle fibres to fast-twitch, which is ideal for hypertrophy. … Read more
Traditional squat technique involves a slow eccentric (lowering phase) and fast concentric (coming back up). Take 3-4 seconds to lower yourself and one second to raise yourself back up. However, slow squats will increase time-under-tension, which can lead to better hypertrophy gains. Whereas, fast squats can help to build speed and power. The Traditional Squat … Read more
Have you ever had shoulder bruises because of squats? If so, I’m sure you’re wondering whether this is normal. Should you wear these bruises as a badge of honour or are you doing something wrong? I’ll now explain everything you need to know about squat bruises and what you can do about it. Shoulder Bruises … Read more
Ring pull ups are harder due to the lack of stability. Your stabilizer muscles in the core and shoulders are required to put in more effort in order to counteract the instability. The range of motion is also increased during ring pull ups compared to convential straight-bar pull ups. Rings Provide Less Stability The most … Read more