How often should i switch up my workout?

[granby140]

Ive read alot online that poeple switch up thier workouts very often, i know that you are supposed to keep your muscles guessing so that they can keep growing? well i was wondering how often does every one switch them up, would it be good if i switched every week up coming into the gym, or is that too soon? please give me some ideas onwhat you guys do thanks*

 

[Jabs]

I like to change small things in my workouts about everytime. Reps, sets and the order I do them in. I keep a few core exercises in my workouts so I can gauge my strength gains. If i'm stuck for a while then I'll change my routine from top to bottom and this happens maybe twice year.

jabs

 

[Fatty4You]

my concern with changing a routine every week is that its hard to track your progress. That is, unless you have a a kind of cylce that will repeat itself.

Like, if i barbell press 135 for 10 one week, but then dont try it again next week, or for another couple of weeks, or some other random time, then how can i be sure i am getting stronger at it?

-Fatty

 

[Zander1983]

I periodize sets, reps and rest periods, but essentially keep my exercises and split the same.

Simplified, but a muscle doesn't know the difference between two exercises that are working it in the same way. It does know the difference between the sets, reps and rest you give it.

When changing exercises a lot, you're going to find you get perceived strength gains from the neural adaptation, rather than actually getting stronger. You may get better at performing exercise, but not necessarily strong. Again, a simplified explanation.

 

[he-man]

been doing DC style lifting - get past 15 reps total and move up in weight. once you can go no higher in weight or reps, swith exercises and start over. just started lifting this way for about a month and it's working great