​​SMXLL

When we prioritize movement quality and technique in our training we will keep getting better and keep getting stronger! Crazy right? When we add load to a movement we are testing the integrity of the movement. We are demanding more stability and control to get that move down in the same way we did it without the load. Once we have mastered this we are able to build strength and power! the brain reinforces the pathways that are being challenged. Buyer beware: This takes time, patience, consistency, and lots of hard work. But if you look at this as thing called fitness as a life long marathon and not a short sprint for gains you will reap the benefits in the long run! A great metaphor is think about fitness as a test you have to take in 5 years, you wouldn't cram for that test and stay up all night. You would be smart and learn a little bit at a time. Same thing with fitness, donn't try and force things in a short amount of time! Be patient and the results will come.

For more information on personal or online training with Infinity Personal Training, click here!​

When you add a load and it does change your movement pattern, it could be because of one of two reasons. a) You are under too much load. b) you are dealing with a deficient movement pattern. Or even c.) All the above.

SMXLL

Let's look at a barbell back squat. The movement quality should remain the same as we add weight to the bar. Yes, the speed of the lift may change, but the movement should look the same whether you are just squatting the bar or pushing up 500 lbs. This is something that is overlooked all the time in training and exercise. We try and skip steps and think that by adding more weight we will get more out of the movement, when in reality we are just setting ourselves up for failure. 

Start treating your workouts as if you were a world class athlete. You wouldn't see a top power lifter just going through the motions and doing semi range of motion lifts. They are focused in on getting the most out of every rep no matter what weight they are throwing around. Training is about adaptation NOT demonstration. 

SMLXL

So let's geek out a little bit! Let's talk about the nervous system. The nervous system controls everything we do. If the nervous system feels we are under threat it will shut down your strength! Speed, power, and strength are o gifts given to you by the nervous system when it feels you are comfortable and not risking injury or harm. Start viewing training as a chance to build a good relationship with your movement and nervous system by gradually stressing it and creating an adaptation effect. Training is meant to help your performance in and out of the gym. It is not there to injure you or sideline you. Intelligent training and coaching should set you up for success and help you build a strong base to keep building on for a long long time! TRAIN SMART!