Constant Variation Enables Constant Results

Creating a standard program where the change or variation is simply a few exercises and a change in repetition schemes is easy to put together. There is change and this does help, but I would argue that constant variation of a more extreme type not only avoids plateaus, but also helps facilitate muscle growth, strength gains, speed gains, athleticism gains, etc. Below is a graphical representation of what I'm talking about:


Without variation, our muscles become accustomed to the same movements. Sometimes, athletes may actually experience a decrease in strength because the monotonous program has left its toll on the psychology of the athlete. When formulating your training modules, remember to incorporate variety. It will be tempting to constantly re-use the same workouts, but try to think outside the box and incorporate radically different approaches to training. Go to Yoga or try Russian Kettlebell training. Maybe even try doing some Mixed Martial Arts training. All have benefits for all types of athletes.