Over the decades, bodybuilding has witnessed numerous approaches aimed at developing an aesthetic physique. One of these methods was heavy-duty training pioneered by Mike Mentzer. The principle behind this approach was to perform every workout session with extreme intensity to stimulate growth.
In a resurfaced clip, the late veteran addressed the importance of including a high-intensity plan in one’s workout regime. Along with the benefits it offered, HIT also promised visible results if done right. Mentzer had the ultimate tip for those considering including the plan in their routine.
To begin with, the icon promised that one did not need fancy equipment to perform heavy-duty training. Even in his previous lectures, Mentzer would often offer substitute exercises that worked the same set of muscles that specialized equipment did. Therefore, there was no magic machine that could lead to gains.
What mattered the most was performing each exercise with intensity and strength. The heavy-duty workout focused on working the muscles to their full potential. Therefore, to ensure maximum gains, one needs to put in some effort.
“No one piece of equipment is capable of working magic for optimal results. The single most important factor is intensity of effort.”
Depending on how much effort an individual puts into their workout, the HIT program would reward them with equally enhanced results. That’s why Mentzer often recommends going to failure for many exercises. It triggers a recovery response from the body that further stimulates growth.
“The results you realize will be totally dependent on the energy you put forth. So give it your all and realize your ambitions.”
Generally, Mentzer’s heavy-duty methods are quick and precise. They involve bodybuilders working till failure, performing just one set, and then taking a 72-hour recovery break. Following a set routine like this for a week ensured gains. He once fashioned an intense chest workout as a part of a weekly HIT routine.
Mike Mentzer revealed his heavy-duty chest workout
Mentzer believed in going beyond the usual bench, pulls, and runs to get a massive chest pump and growth. Therefore, he revealed an effective way to gain muscle in a two-step routine. The only rule was to perform one set of each exercise.
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The first exercise he recommended was a pec deck for the chest. He suggested a range of 6–10 reps, keeping in mind to stop early or go on depending on one’s capacity. The next was the incline press, where he recommended only 1-3 reps before wrapping up. Mentzer was a visionary who witnessed bodybuilding’s scientific side and worked according to that. That’s why his techniques live on among current-day bodybuilders.
