Possibly hit a plateau

WizardGlick · 10-18-2007, 07:59 AM

Feels like it anyway. I've been dropping weight (purposely) and lost about 17lbs in about 9 weeks. Feeling pretty good about how I'm looking. Been doing my superset routine for about 8 weeks now and really feel that I'm not making any realy gains for the past week and a 1/2. My arms were getting bigger, as were my shoulders, but nothing now.
So, should I:

a) take a week off and just do cardio,

or

b) switch routines

I won't lie to you all, my shoulders and elbows have been hurting for the past week and I could do with resting them, but I hate the thought of doing that if it isn't necessary. Just an annoying pain, nothing severe.
I was contemplating doing a strength training routine like either Bodyhards, or something I saw on Dave Draper's site.

So, what's everyone's opinion?

CupraZ · 10-18-2007, 08:02 AM

Or take a week off or deload for a week and do some cardio along with it. After that restart your workout. Its still working for you so why change. Try to add a few weeks and than switch to an other program.

Whiskeyjack · 10-18-2007, 08:49 AM

I find that supersetting is excellent for a LIMITED time, not perpetually. For one thing you can lift heavier when not supersetting. If your joints are bothering you, you need to give them a break. From the limited but important information you've provided, I'd suggest taking a week off from weights and do some form of low impact cardio (ie. long walks are good) on a daily basis - cathartic, healthy, energizing, gives time to think. Then do a new routine. A change is as good as a rest; change and rest are best.

GreenWave1 · 10-18-2007, 09:28 AM

Take a week off. You'll come back fresh and be amazed at how strong you are. After the layoff, change up your workout.

WizardGlick · 10-18-2007, 11:26 AM

Thanks, guys. I'm thinking a week off is my best bet, too. I've been at this same routine for quite awhile and I think it finally took it's toll on me.

I'll take the week off and go back to this same routine though. It's been working out really well for me, although I may not do supersets this time. I also try to get in 20 minutes of cardio right after my workout so we'll have to see how this all goes because I do all of this during my lunch hour. No time after work, unfortunately.

Rhinoclan · 10-18-2007, 11:29 AM

Remember, you're also dropping weight, and part of that weight is going to be some muscle. You're obviously eating under maintenance, so the body has a tougher time recovering. Just some things to think about.

heavywt · 10-18-2007, 11:40 AM

Also, just think about how that week off is going to make you want to, NEED TO!!! lift heavy stuff again. A week off every once in a while, for me, aside from resting my joints, is a great motivational tool. Drives me NUTS!!! My workouts after the break are that much better for it.

Hey-Iwas51 · 10-18-2007, 12:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rhinoclan

Remember, you're also dropping weight, and part of that weight is going to be some muscle. You're obviously eating under maintenance, so the body has a tougher time recovering. Just some things to think about.

Good point...

IR45N · 10-18-2007, 12:16 PM

No answer but would like to get up to your level avatar wise.

WizardGlick · 10-18-2007, 01:30 PM

Quote:

Remember, you're also dropping weight, and part of that weight is going to be some muscle. You're obviously eating under maintenance, so the body has a tougher time recovering. Just some things to think about.

Hadn't thought about that. Thanks!

Quote:

No answer but would like to get up to your level avatar wise.

MY LEVEL?! Thanks! I have this nasty habit of constantly comparing myself to guys at the gym I feel are in much better shape than I am. I've dropped about 16 lbs so far and feel I look better, but these younger guys are too much. Two guys in particular, but it's great motivation. Makes me keep pushing myself harder and harder.

Quote:

Also, just think about how that week off is going to make you want to, NEED TO!!! lift heavy stuff again. A week off every once in a while, for me, aside from resting my joints, is a great motivational tool. Drives me NUTS!!! My workouts after the break are that much better for it.

Agreed! It's going to be a VERY tough week for me. I'll still go to the gym but I'll be concentrating more on stomach and cardio. Still and all, just hearing the weights clanking in the other room will be torture.

Wish me luck!