Having been in a gym environment for over forty four years, I have witnessed an evolution of weight training.
Many years ago, gyms were owned and operated by people who not only worked out, but more often than not, competed in Bodybuilding competitions. This reflected in the members; discipline, focus, intense training, and good nutrition. It was before the current technology of cell phones and headphones. There weren’t any TV’s and there certainly wasn’t any texting while sitting on the equipment. No one carried around a gallon of water and a gym bag over there shoulder. It was pure, unadulterated hardcore training. You put your wrist straps on, a lifting belt, and it was you against the weights. You lifted until you couldn’t lift anymore. You were focused. you had a goal, maybe a competition, or just to put more size on your Arms. Today it’s a different story.
The gyms of today are owned and operated by business people or corporations. The majority do not work out, they are rarely present in the gym, and their main goal is to make money. It’s strictly a business. This lack of interest reflects in the members, and consequently, their poor workout ethics, and lack of understanding proper form. Without guidance from the gym, they will continue to drop weights, execute bad form, try to lift more than they can do correctly, and make little or no gains. With hardcore training, you finish a set, then stretch, then plan out your next set. Today’s generation finish a set, then check their phones for text messages. A total lack of focus which will of course lead to injuries or lack of progress.
Nothing has changed over the last forty five years in regards to how the body responds to weight training. And with so much more information on nutrition, making gains should be easy. Take your time and focus. Get rid of the headphones and cell phones. Train like you want to make positive changes in your physique.
Iron Guru 