Supersets Supercharge Your Workout

Sarah Page
For a long time, bodybuilders have implemented the art of supersets to shock their muscles and make the most use of their time in the gym. While supersets should not be used for every workout, you can benefit from them when you are reaching a plateau or want to change things up. The answer to your bodybuilding program is not too far away anymore.

The proven way to increase the rate in which your muscles develop is called super-setting. As mentioned before, this is an old school method that many people neglect. Perhaps one reason that many people haven't heard of it is because it requires a lot of hard work and determination. But I have faith in you and I know that you won't give up!

So what is a superset? Traditional exercise routines tell you to perform sets one after another with a 1-2 minute break between each set. A superset bypasses this rest between sets and tells you to jump from one exercise to another quickly. They are therefore very intense, yet very effective. However, do not overuse this technique, for it can over train your body quickly. Only use it once every few workouts so that you have time to recover and still reap the benefits. This technique is designed to help you overcome any peaks in your training or muscle development.

Keep in mind also that supersets are specifically designed for muscle growth and shock rather than strength. When you perform two consecutive sets back to back, you are taking away from your body's strength. This means that you should decrease the amount of weight that you lift when you do supersets. Also, between each superset, you should take an extended break - like 3-4 minutes.

While performing supersets, try to work out antagonistic muscle groups. This means workout muscles that are opposite to each other. For example, when your biceps are contracted, your triceps are stretched. When your triceps are contracted, your biceps are flexed. Therefore, it is a good idea to do a curling exercise followed by a pushing exercise to superset your arms. This could work for chest/back and quadriceps/hamstrings. This will improve the effectiveness of your superset.

So now that you have a briefing on supersets, go ahead and start using them! Experience the brutality of soreness along with the reward of a respected body. Remember to always exercise with caution and listen to your body. Enjoy!

Published by Sarah Page

I am a 26 year old graduate at the University of South Carolina. I have my Exercise Science degree and plan on attending grad school for physical therapy in the fall. I enjoy writing about health, fitness...  View profile

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