As you make the transition from beginning lifter to the more seasoned bodybuilder, you’ll notice that things don’t always work like they used to. Often, despite your best efforts in the gym, you’ll notice that nothing seems to be happening anymore. What’s the deal? The answer can be summed up in one simple word: variation.

Most people tend to fall into one specific way of training early on, and then rarely break the pattern as the years pass. As time goes on, a “one-dimensional” system will bring about less results as far as hypertrophy is concerned. The human body is an incredibly adaptable machine and will quickly cease to respond to stimuli that it’s exposed to repeatedly.

Let’s look at a few ways you can vary your program to kick-start your strength and muscle gains.