Use Dumbbells for Variation

If you’re getting just a little tired of the same training routine but you’re not willing to give it up completely just yet, try this simple variation technique to switch things up on your muscles.

Train on the same days you usually train with the same set and rep patterns, but for one entire week only train using dumbbells. This will likely force you to come up with some new combinations of exercises—ones that your muscles aren’t quite used to. It’s a refreshing and often rewarding switch.

You can also use this technique with cables or machines. Every couple months I’ll take a week and train exclusively with dumbbells, or cables, or machines.

I certainly wouldn’t want to do this all the time—you’ll never get me to abandon good old barbells—but doing so every so often can really help you break through some mental and physical barriers.

[Note: If you’re on the Ultimate Muscle Mass Training Program, for best results I suggest using this technique during week 5 or 6 and/or week 9 and 10].