Short Workouts Tip #5

Preplan, simplify, preset, de-clutter and shut up.

Often a large portion of time in any one workout is spent setting up on deciding what to do next. Always go into a workout with a plan (you must balance this with the need to be adaptable i.e., if things are rockin’ and you’re about to set a record you might have to add on unplanned set). The better the plan the better the workout. When you get to a really advanced level you can make it up on the fly but till then know what you’re going to do ahead – it will save time.

Simplify both your overall and specific workouts. You don’t need a dozen exercises for strong well developed athletic legs. You need squats in some form and over the course of time sled drags. If you feel the need for lots of variation in one workout do it with bodyweight exercises that can be changed on the spot with no delay. When you’re time pressed simplify the individual workout as well. I like a basic warm up pre exercise of about 10-20 reps, for 1-2 sets, then 3-5 sets of 1-5 reps building up to a max set for the day for strength simple, fast. Some complicated loading patterns for when you have more time, but realize that fast and simple often work best regardless of available time.

Preset your weights and de-clutter your training area. When you’re moving through fast these two will really help. I like to set up a clear path from movement to movement so the workout is unimpeded and when I get started I don’t have to think or sidestep things just concentrate and go. I also like to pre plan my weights and set the plates or dumbbells or whatever right next to the bar or each other so all I have to do is lift and load. Really speeds it up.

Finally when you’re time pressed for training, well shut up and train! The biggest majority of time wasted in gyms is talking. Often even serious lifters fall into hanging out with their buddies and talking too much. Now people may not like it if you’re in a public gym. However if you’re friendly on the way in and out the door people will get used to the idea that you won’t be stopping to talk once the workout starts.

Put all the stuff we’ve talked in the last four tips together and most people will drastically cut their training time (many by 75% or so). Combine it with solid goals and a smart workout plan and you have the secrets to super strength and super endurance even when you’re super short on time. By the way for that short workout plan that covers it all check out Twisted Conditioning.

God bless,
Bud Jeffries