Developing consistency with a training program is critical to long-lasting success in fitness. In a recent YouTube video, bodybuilding great Lee Labrada identified four strategies you can adopt to help you stay on top of your exercise routine.
“Today, I’m going to reveal four hacks that you can use to improve your workout consistency and stick to your workout program.”
A mastermind of discipline and calculated training, Lee Labrada remains one of the most respected bodybuilders regardless of era. His longevity, vibrant health, and muscularity are still on display today at 64 years old. Grounded in consistency, Labrada’s devotion to training turned him into an industry staple, and his son, Hunter Labrada, has proudly followed in his footsteps.
Part of what makes training so addictive is the results that come after hard work. This has prompted Lee Labrada to share some of his secrets for following through on fitness over time.
“I’ve found that whenever I set a goal for myself, be it in the gym or even another part of my life, it motivates me when I see results. Seeing the results means I’m getting closer to my goal and this in turn makes my motivation go even higher.”
Lee Labrada’s 4 Hacks for Better Gym Consistency
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Before laying out his framework for gym consistency, Labrada underlined that exercising correctly alongside nutrition are major factors needed for success.
“In order to see results from your time in the gym, you need to become consistent in your training and nutrition. The ability to exercise correctly and eat right day after day are major success factors if you want to see changes.”
“This list of four things you can start doing today to help improve your consistency and see more results from your workout program,” shares Lee Labrada.
Quick Breakdown
- Be Consistent
- Under-Commit, Don’t Over-Commit
- Schedule It
- Get Training Partner
Number 1 — Be Consistent
First and foremost, Labrada advocates for consistently sticking with an exercise and nutrition program. Although it’s tempting to change workouts after watching a video or reading an article, he believes three months is a good rule of thumb before entertaining something new.
“It’s pretty simple: pick an exercise routine and nutrition program and then stick with it. Sometimes I see people falling into the trap of trying every fad diet that comes along or changing their workout routines every time they read a new workout article. Because of this, they fail to see results and they lose motivation. They ask themselves, what happened? And then they blame it on the program and go looking for another alternative program to try.”
“You need to stick with your training and nutrition programs long enough to give your body a chance to respond for the results to become noticeable. I suggest staying on your chosen program for at least 90 days before entertaining the idea of changing it. If it’s still working after 90 days, stick to it. Why fix it if it’s not broken?”
Number 2 — Under-Commit, Don’t Over-Commit
He says to honestly assess how much time you have for your fitness routine instead of committing to an overzealous plan that might backfire.
“Make an honest assessment of how much time you have available to work out each week and if you only have three days a week to work out, then pick a great three-day workout program and stick with it. Don’t make the mistake of picking a five-day program right from the start and then haphazardly make it to the gym only three days a week.”
A firm commitment throughout the week will inch you closer to your physique goals, says Labrada.
“It’s better to make a firm commitment to a set schedule every week. This will help with consistency and will positively reinforce your sense of accomplishment.”
Number 3 — Schedule It
Be deliberate. Labrada believes it’s best to schedule your workouts and meals just like any other important obligation.
“Schedule it. You should schedule your workout time and meals just like you would any other important appointment such as a doctor’s appointment. If you schedule it in and work around your workout and meals, you’ll become more consistent.”
“Refuse to skip your workouts and meals.”
Number 4 — Get Training Partner
Another fantastic way to stay accountable for your fitness is by finding a training partner.
“Get a training partner or someone to be accountable to. Having someone that you meet at the gym or at least someone that you’re accountable to will help ensure that you stay with your program.”
Not only will a training partner encourage you to attend the gym more often, but they can also help with pushing through hard sets.
“It will help you stop skipping workouts and it’s a lot more fun when you have someone to work with. Take advantage of these four action steps today and become more consistent with your exercise program.”
Aside from developing bulletproof gym consistency, Lee Labrada has shared strategies for maximizing gains with duration and frequency. He notes that shorter-duration workouts with high intensity have yielded the best results inside the gym.
Lee Labrada’s tips for sticking to a gym routine are grounded in real-life experience, having competed at the highest levels in the IFBB Pro League. If you’re struggling to stay on track, try implementing Labrada’s four hacks for improved consistency.
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