To achieve your physique goals and maximize your gains, it is crucial to have a well-structured bodybuilding training program. Incorporating strength training and periodization can provide long-term benefits for muscle size and growth. Many top bodybuilders have begun their careers as powerlifters, focusing on building strength before transitioning into bodybuilding. Strength training allows you to lift heavier weights, which in turn leads to greater muscle growth. By cycling between periods of heavy weight and low volume, and more traditional bodybuilding-style training, known as periodization, you can increase both strength and mass. When training specifically for strength, it is important to alter program variables such as exercise choice, order, sets, resistance, and rest between sets. Prioritizing core lifts like bench press, squat, deadlift, and overhead press, and including assistance exercises to strengthen weak points, can enhance muscle growth and prevent plateauing. It is also beneficial to increase weight and reduce reps within the muscle-building rep range, along with planned assistance exercises. It is important to note that training to failure is not necessary for strength training. Advisable to keep an extra …
