The Map Magazine

When we first started working out with weights in an effort to build muscle as fast as humanly possible - we spent most of our time trying to find the “perfect” routine.

In fact, we’d have to say that in truth we were obsessed with finding the “magic” program that would produce the fastest muscle growth known to man. We decided that it was paramount that our search for this hidden routine continue until we found the perfect blend of exercises that would give me super-fast muscle gains - guaranteed.

Well truth be told, what we found out was this: Intensity of effort (otherwise known as hard work), is far more important than your choice of exercises. Even the lousiest exercise will produce some muscle growth if you work hard enough on it.

You can work hard using a pretty average program, and you’d do far better than if you lounged your way through the “perfect” program. You see, most “hardgainers” are looking for the “magic” routine that will instantly turn them into Mr Olympia overnight. But there is no such thing. You see, it’s the intensity of effort that you put into each and every exercise that counts.

Without maximum intensity of effort - no routine no matter who created it will build very much muscle. You’ve got to learn to work hard during each and every set. You’ve got to give your workouts everything you’ve got - otherwise you’re likely just wasting your time.