The path of least resistance

Such a waste of time.  There are several people at my gym who are religiously there but not doing a whole lot.  I shake my head wondering why?  Okay, I get the whole social aspect for some folks but really, if you want some results you have to work.  Today as I was working out my triceps I watched a guy trying to look like he was really working hard.  Problem is he was hovering in the 'path of least resistance.'  It is common, people who want to look like they are working out.  That 'least resistance' spot is different for each exercise but commonly hits right at the mid point.  That point where your muscle goes from stretched out to contracting.  Those who want to look like they are doing, tend to hover there.

Sure you can pick up big weights and keep your movement in the 2"-5" easy zone, but why bother?  All you are doing is wasting time.  To build muscle you have to use your muscle.  You need to pay close attention to form and complete extension.  If a weight is too heavy to be able to complete the full range of motion then IT'S TOO HEAVY.  Put it down and pick up a weight that is doable.  A weight that you can actually lift.  Just because you pick up a big weight does not mean that you have big muscles; nor does it mean that you can even truly lift that weight. 

Keeping a full range of motion when lifting weights is important for muscle growth.  Muscle growth protects joints.  Not only for when you want to lift; but for when you want to do anything.  So grabbing hold of the cables and tugging them 3-6" is going to do nothing but waste time. Tiny little movements do not add up to work; they are sort of the cheaters or fakers way of feeling like they are working out.  Cheating or faking it really doesn't make sense when you are at the gym to work out to get fit and healthy.  It's all about you, no one else. 

We all need to push ourselves to achieve goals.  It is the same when working out; if it's really easy then nothing is being accomplished.  Ever see someone on an elliptical who looks like the machine is taking them for a ride?  Well it is and they are getting only a fraction of what they could be getting if they focused on movement rather than riding the elliptical.  Full range motion movements are hard; typically you need to lower your weights when you are doing it right.  By using every muscle in your arms, legs, stomach or wherever you are building true strength that will serve you well. 

The only time that you might not do a full range motion is when you are upping your weights.  Often you have to do half or quarter range with a heavier weight to start.  But, that range is not in the path of least resistance range; no, it is in the most effective, muscle building zone.  Stay out of the least resistance zone and spend your time working hard, working smart and and getting results.