Health & Wellness: Staples or Variety Pt. 2

Welcome back #fitfam, today we’ll be discussing the use of exercise staples and exercise variety in a training regimen. Based on desired results, available resources, and time commitment, a program is often developed utilizing both approaches. However, in more specialized training, sometimes, a type of training is selected and it is the only training type included in the program. Would a specialized program work for you? How could you benefit from a variety based program? We’ve considered the pros and cons of staples, now let’s discuss variety…

A program based on staples gives the individual a consistent way to establish discipline and a baseline routine. While beginners or advanced fitness connoisseurs can benefit from a staple-based program with basic modifications to reps, sets, and resistance, often, variety is the spice of life we all need. Variety will also introduce to the ability to target specific muscle groups as a focus while maintaining a progressive approach in other areas. Though we cannot target fat for weight loss, we can target specific muscles for development. As an example, my ability to develop shoulder, back, and arm definition takes very little work. Unfortunately, my chest and gluten need special attention to develop the look and shape that I am happy with. Using staples helped me gain strength in both problem areas, but I needed variety drills to start targeting them and get results.

Let me qualify my definition of variety-based – What I mean is that a staple is a basic exercise that you typically find in group sessions such squats, push-ups, standard lunges, sit-ups, etc. Variety-based is where you venture into Bulgarian’s, rotating curls, Arnold press, 3-pt crunches, and so on. So as we explore the concept discussed here, we are comparing the consistency of using simple staple moves to a variety fo compound moves that challenge your body in different ways. Staple moves can be encouraging because you are able to progress rep count and resistance level quickly but compound moves progress much slower because you are focused on form and proper technique.

Ultimately, it is up to the individual to trust the decision of their trainer or do the proper research on the approach before beginning their own program.

My wish is that my advance will inspire and drive you to the next level, please enjoy these tips!

Here’s some general pieces of equipment I recommend you gather to create a solid DIY kit that will cost you $60 or less – a lifetime of equipment for the cost of a 3-month gym membership:

1 – Ropeless jump rope, available on Amazon – Apprx. $8

2 – 5lb dumbbells, available at Walmart, Target, Academy, or other sporting goods stores – Approx. $12

1 – 10lb kettlebell – Approx. $12

1 – Set of heavy fitness bands – Approx. $15

1 – Long stretch fitness band – Approx. $6

I hope that you enjoy this journey and can get the most from the information and tips that we provide! See ya next time!

Lastly, I have training programs as low as $75/month that will supplement and guide you to your goals.