The Problem with Generic Programs & TikTok Workouts…
We live in an era of social media where there are UNLIMITED TikTok routines and generic programs promising quick results. These workouts might be fun and even effective when you're just starting out. But as you progress, it becomes crucial to transition to a personalised program tailored to your specific goals, needs, and abilities.
Generic Programs and TikTok Workouts Can Work for Beginners
When you're new to training, almost any consistent activity will bring results. Your body is highly responsive to new stimuli, and whether you're following someone else’s TikTok routine or a generic program you found online, you're likely to see improvements in strength and muscle growth quickly. This stage is known as "newbie gains," where your body rapidly adapts to new challenges.
At this stage, you're building foundational strength and motor skills, and the variety offered by these programs can keep you engaged and motivated. They're often designed to be accessible and simple, making them perfect for someone who's just starting their fitness journey.
The Plateau: Why Progress Slows Down
However, as you move beyond the beginner phase, you'll likely hit a plateau. This is when your progress slows or even stalls altogether. The routines that once made you feel stronger every week suddenly seem ineffective. This is a sign that your body has adapted to the stimulus provided by these workouts, and it's no longer being challenged in the way it needs to be to continue making progress.
Generic programs are designed to appeal to a broad audience, which means they don't take into account your individual goals, body type, strengths, weaknesses, or lifestyle. They lack the specificity needed to continue driving progress once you've moved past the initial stages of training.
The Importance of a Personalised Programs for Intermediate Lifters
As you transition from a beginner to an intermediate lifter, your goals likely become more specific. Maybe you're looking to increase your squat, build more muscle in your quads, or improve your overall conditioning. This is where a personalised program becomes INVALUABLE.
A custom program is tailored to your unique needs and goals. A good program takes into account your training history, your current level, and any imbalances or weaknesses you may have. This ensures that every exercise, set, and rep is aligned with your objectives - maximising your potential for growth.
Avoiding Overtraining and Injury
One of the risks of following generic programs or TikTok workouts is that they often don't account for proper periodisation or recovery. Without a plan that's designed specifically for you, it's easy to overtrain certain muscle groups or neglect others, leading to imbalances, overuse injuries, and burnout.
The Role of a Coach
Creating a personalised program often involves working with a coach who can assess your strengths and weaknesses, understand your goals, and design a plan that aligns with your needs. A coach can also provide feedback on your form, adjust your program as you progress, and offer guidance on nutrition and recovery. This level of support and customisation is something a generic program simply can't provide…
While TikTok workouts and generic programs can be a great starting point, they have their limitations. As you advance in your training, a personalised program becomes essential.
If you're SERIOUS about taking your training to the next level, it's time to leave the generic routines behind and invest in a coach that will help you reach your full potential.
With love,
Coach Sandra x