Today, I want to chat about something we’ve all experienced at some point in our fitness journeys: hitting a plateau.
You know that frustrating point where progress seems to just stop, no matter how hard you’re working? Yep, I’ve been there too, and I’m here to help you break through it!
First off, let’s talk about why plateaus happen.
Your body is an amazing machine that adapts to the stress you put on it. When you do the same workouts over and over, your body gets used to them, and that’s when progress stalls.
It’s perfectly normal, but it can feel incredibly demotivating.
So, what can we do about it?
The key is to mix things up and keep your body guessing. Here are some strategies that have worked wonders for me and my clients:
- Change Your Routine: If you’ve been doing the same exercises, try something new. Swap your running for cycling, or add some strength training if you’ve been focused on cardio. New challenges force your body to adapt again, which can kickstart progress.
- Increase Intensity: Sometimes, it’s not about what you’re doing but how you’re doing it. Increase the weight you’re lifting, add more reps, or shorten your rest periods. Pushing yourself a little harder can make a big difference.
- Set New Goals: Having a new target can reignite your motivation. Whether it’s running a faster 5k, lifting a heavier weight, or mastering a new yoga pose, fresh goals can keep you engaged and excited about your workouts.
- Rest and Recover: It might sound counterintuitive, but sometimes, the best way to overcome a plateau is to take a break. Overtraining can lead to burnout and stalled progress. Give your body the rest it needs to come back stronger.
- Track Your Progress: Keeping a workout journal can help you see the bigger picture. Sometimes, progress is happening even if it’s not immediately visible. Writing down your workouts, how you feel, and any improvements can provide valuable insights.
Remember, everyone hits plateaus, and they’re a sign that your body is adapting.
Don’t get discouraged!
With a little creativity and persistence, you can push past them and keep moving forward.
Let’s stay strong and keep smashing those fitness goals together!
I am a personal trainer based in the North UK
