Strength training can be a bit overwhelming at times.
After all, you want to do everything correctly so you get the best results possible in the least amount of time.
So you look for:
- The best strength training program
- The best workout split (e.g. total body or upper/lower)
- The best set and rep range
- The best upper body and lower body exercises
- How long to rest between sets and exercises
- The best equipment to use (e.g. bodyweight, barbells, dumbbells)
As you can see, there are many details to nit-pick over, if you choose.
But oftentimes it’s the small, simple things that can make the biggest difference and have the most profound effect.
Below is insider-only information shared recently in the Lift Like a Girl newsletter. It received such a great response that I wanted to share it with everyone. (And this will also give you a glimpse of the stuff shared on the inside so you may want to sign up if you haven’t yet done so).
Here’s one super simple tip that will make your next workout better and more productive: focus.
Sounds pretty boring and underwhelming, doesn’t it? BUT, if you put it to practice, you’ll experience the results for yourself.
Here’s what you do . . .
During your next workout – focus, fully and intently, with total concentration, on every single rep you perform. From the very first rep of your warm-up to the last rep of the last work set.
Focus. Put 100 percent effort into every single rep. Perform every rep with a purpose. Don’t just rush through the first few reps of a set in order to hurry and get it done. Slow down a bit if necessary, and stay focused. (Exception! I don’t recommend doing deadlifts slowly; especially the lowering portion).
This is one benefit to heavy low rep sets – since you only do a few reps, it’s easier to stay focused on every single one. Feel and focus on your muscles pushing and pulling the weight. Make every rep count. Whether you’re doing three reps or 30, stay focused. If you’re like me, you’ve noticed that sometimes it’s easy to just rush through the first several reps of a set in order to get it done. But don’t do that!
I’ve gone through spurts where I just went through the motions and mindlessly performed my workouts. But whenever I slow down, focus on what I’m doing, and put 100 percent effort and concentration into every set I have, my workouts are always much better, I get stronger, and my body just feels better. It also makes it much easier for me to listen to my body and make any necessary adjustments that day (i.e. strength train intuitively).
Focus and perform every part of every rep with a purpose.
Do that and I’m willing to bet you’ll have a more productive workout.