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Barbell Routine - Ready to Say R.I.P. to Your Barbell Workout?
 R eady to say R.I.P. to your barbell routine, or has your barbell workout already got one foot in the grave?Barbell HistorySo are we REALLY ready to consign the traditional barbell routine to the graveyard? The history books would suggest not. From Sandow to Arnold, it is well documented how the barbell has forged some fabulous physiques, making any obituary writers a tad presumptuous! But what of the counter argument which claims these genetic marvels would have sculpted such physiques REGARDLESS of the training tools used? Machine MayhemMany experts believe this to be true. After all, who is to say Arnold wouldn't have realized his full muscular potential using machines in preference to the humble barbell? Nautilus creator, Arthur Jones would have certainly believed so. In a landmark 1970s Colorado experiment, Jones would show the efficacy of machines when used with abbreviated, high-intensity training - and not a single barbell in sight! So perhaps the question we REALLY need to ask ourselves, is how EFFECTIVE is your barbell training?
 Photo courtesy of David Seto Barbell TrainingFor our answer, we need to evaluate not only the training tools used - in this case, the traditional barbell - but also the methods employed, and whether your barbell workout allows you to train progressively and injury-free.
A program's efficacy can be measured thus:
If your answer is "no", then you will do well to investigate other alternatives in your quest to get strong:
Do this, and your routine is no longer something to be feared, but becomes your lifeline to strength and fitness. |
