How to Get Ripped and Build Muscle

This week’s post is all about how to build muscle is a guest post by Rafi Bar-Lev, a former combat medic and the founder of the community fitness site Passionate Fitness. Check it out!

How to Get Ripped No Matter Your Genetics

You’ve put your time in the gym, tried the ab machine, bought the total gym and you’re still not seeing the results that you want. Why is it that some of your friends, who never seem to workout are able to be in such great shape while you have to struggle? The bad news is that some of it really is genetics, the good news is that even if your genetics aren’t perfect, you can still get ripped.

Here’s how:

1. Substitute Interval Training for Long Distance Cardio. Experts say that interval training is at least, if not more effective than long distance cardio. Not to mention it saves time. Instead of going for an hour long run, do 8 sets of 30 second sprints with 1 minute of rest in between. It will take much time, but it’s much more of a challenge!

2. For Gaining Muscle, Do Less Reps and More Weight, For Toning, More Reps and Less Weight. Depending on what your seeking to accomplish, your workout plan is going to be different. If your trying to put on muscle, your going to want to do less repetitions and more weight. If you’re trying to tone up your body and give yourself more definition, do more repetitions with less weight. Knowing what you’re trying to accomplish is critical for getting the best results.

3. Try Swimming. Have you ever seen a hardcore swimmer who doesn’t look good?  Swimming is an amazing exercise that works all of your muscles and burns a tremendous amount of calories. Make sure to swim in a certified pool where there’s a lifeguard present at all times.

4. Nutrition, Nutrition, Nutrition. A poor diet can sabotage even the most perfect workout plan. To get ripped, make sure you eat a balanced diet of whole wheat bread, vegetables, fruits, lean meat, and some dairy products. If you’re trying to lose weight, count your calories and take in 500 calories less per day to lose 1 pound of fat per week.

5. Keep at it and Don’t Worry about Relapses. Keep working out and eating right, even when you’re not feeling motivated. You will have up days and down days, but the important thing is to keep going until you complete your goals. Also, don’t worry about the occasional relapse. Just get right back into your diet and workout after you had temporarily dropped it and soon you will get to the point where you can go on a binge every once in awhile without losing your six pack abs. When you finally reach your goals and look back at your journey, you will know it was worth it.

Tags: how to build muscle, how to get ripped, muscle building

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