Chr8808

iTrader: (1)

Ive been doing a quick all around routine for about 2 months. Originally this was supposed to get me "to where i wanna be" before i start "real workouts".

-inclined situps 15x3 alternating with bench press 10x3
so that means im doing 15 situps then go right to 10 bench presses then situps, then presses etc.
2min inbetween setting up next exercises
-lat pull downs 12x3 with leg lifts 10x3
2min inbetween setting up next exercises
-concentration curls 10x3 with stomach crunches 10x3
2min inbetween setting up next exercises
-leg presses 10x3 with 10x3 millitary press
then a 10 minute run on the treadmill

I usually throw in some other stuff after the run when im cooling down like lunges, shoulder shrugs?, squats, butterfly machine or just stuff that i didnt feel i maximized earlier.

This usually takes me 30-45 minutes max (because thats about all the free time i have). I choose to workout this way as a way of prepping myself for a more serious concentrated routine after i was in "better" shape, but im wondering if this is bad or not maximizing the potential? So far, ive increased weight/resistance by around 20%. Im not looking to be huge, just more defined (5'11, 172) and stronger.

fdl

Sounds like you are doing some sort of circuit training. Its a good way to get in shape, tone up and burn fat at the same time.

However for purely building muscle and strength you want to focus on specific muscles. For example, when you throw crunches in between you curls the energy you are using on the crunches is being taken away from your curls. If you didnt do those crucnhes maybe you could have curled more weight, or done more reps. The reverse holds true as well, you cant do as many crunches because you are a bit tired from the curls you just did.

ric

Well, if it has served its purpose, probably time to move on. Circuit work is good for a combo of moderate muscle development while working your cv system, but fdl is right, it won't build bulk.

You may be experiencing a "plateau" after two months of the same regimen. The body becomes acclimated to the work, and tends to not derive as much growth from it. You might start to look at a more "pure" weightlifting regimen or, at the very least, vary your circuit a bit. Toss out some old stuff, blend in some new.....

RMATIC09

That sort of training keeps your heart rate up, which will promote fat loss.

If your main objective is adding more muscle mass, it might be better to split up your muscle parts, and you can still have your workout durations in the timeframe they are in now.

SDCGTSX

No matter what exercise routine you are doing, you HAVE to change it around every 3-4 months if you want to see results. Our body adjusts to any exercise routine. If you've been doing circuit training, try a full weight lifting program with split routines throughout the week. Like chest sholders, stomach on Monday, Legs, back and biceps on Wed, etc. You can find good workout routines on the web.