K so sorry I just made 5 posts in a row, but I'm trying to catch up with this thread. I am so passionate about lifting.
I'm always trying to learn new things. If you have good tips, send them my way. Here's some of my tips, but first you must understand I lift for shape, not strength or performance:
1 -You have to find what works for you (range of motion, # of reps, weight, etc.), everyone's body is different. I swear lighter weight is the way to go (through trial and error), but find what works for you.
2 - Slow down your reps, don't just move weight around. That's how you get injured and it's counterproductive. Lift the weight by isolating the muscle.
3 - The importance of mental focus cannot be understated. When I do a rep I try to picture all the blood in my body rushing to that muscle to swell it and lift the weight.
4 - Stay swoll as long as you can. Getting the pump and maintaining it is the whole reason for going to the gym. A cold environment is terrible for your muscles. Put a sweater on when you leave the gym even if you're sweating a lot.
5 - When I'm feeling a lack of motivation learning something new inspires me to lift. I usually cure apathy by watching youtube videos of Kai Greene or some of my other favorites. Always be learning whether it's a new lift, or improving muscle control, etc.
6 - Pose in front of the mirror daily doing flexes (5-10 minutes). It helps the muscle to obtain desired shape and helps you get mentally where you wanna be. I like to stretch and flex in between sets too. It makes you feel like a douche to flex at the gym, but Arnold swore by it and I try not to care what others think.
7 - Constantly be making changes to shock the muscles. Don't let them get complacent. Change lifts, angles, # of sets, splits, etc.
If I think of other good tips I'll post them. Through trial and error I found what works for me. In 4 years I made a good deal of progress considering the hand I'm genetically dealt.
Age 25, 6' 2" 172 lbs
Age 29. 6' 2" 200 lbs
I'd love to see before and after shots of y'all.