I've been trying to bulk up my upper body for a while now (I'm 5'7", 140lbs, 6% body fat) and I seem to be having a hard time. My strength has been increasing, but with no visible results as far as muscle mass. I think it may have something to do with my naturally fast metabolism (I've always been able to eat whatever I want and never gain weight). My age (16) may have something to do with it, since last year I was trying to bulk up also and had no results until my sudden jump from 120lbs to 140 lbs sometime before summer. I work out regularly: heavy lifting twice a week, low weight, high rep once a week, and cardio the other four days. Tips please?
2007-03-29 16:52:28 · 5 answers · asked by whataburn123 2 in Health ➔ Diet & Fitness
I'm having a similar problem, I've been lifting for two years and I've suddenly stopped gaining strength/muscle. Be sure that you are not in the same routine, switch it up every time. Dumbell press, close grip bench, incline press etc. for chest. Push your workouts as hard as you can, if you don't use music start. Weightlifting is all about consistency and effort. Be patient and work hard and you'll get what you want.
2007-03-29 17:07:23 · answer #1 · answered by Nate 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Guys look at the actors, bodybuilders, and athletes of today and want the same build and body. What most don't know is that most of them have worked out for years and years, taken illegal substances, and have great genetics. I'm not trying to discourage you, but make sure your doing this for the right reasons.
Low reps with a lot of weight is the best way to build mass and strength. I have had the most success with the 5x5 system. It is 5 sets of 5 reps in the same exercise(example- flat barbell bench press) with the same amount of weight. The last 2 sets you should not be able to do all 5 reps, but 3 or 4. Once you are able to do all 25 reps, increase the weight. Remember, everyone's body is different.
2007-03-30 00:29:54 · answer #2 · answered by beefcake 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Thats awsome that yuo've been bulking up at all, for some people it just takes longer though. I would say your doing pretty much what you can for now. One thing you might do, that I do, is just get some 20 pound weights and try doing reps and endurence training for about 10 minutes every morning and evening, along with your regular routine, it just activated your muscles more. Also try a chin up bar, it's pretty sweet, try to do more and more every time.
2007-03-29 23:58:58 · answer #3 · answered by musclemuffingirl 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
low reps 4-6 with as heavy as you can do it with ....don't forget to take every other day off from upper body
2007-03-29 23:56:53 · answer #4 · answered by shady7979 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
beware....too much protein will turn to fat if you slack in your later years !! bulk is over rated.... ....being fast & smart is wwaayy more effective !!! I got 41 years of proof !!
2007-03-29 23:58:00 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋