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🏋️ Why Most Guys Over 40 Don’t Push Hard Enough in the Gym
PLUS: Double Progression Beats Random PR Chasing
Michael Pender & Ryan Engel
September 03, 2025
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TODAY’S LEVEL UP:
Coach’s Corner: Why Most Guys Over 40 Don’t Push Hard Enough in the Gym
Quick Hit Tip: Double progression beats random PR chasing
Question from Our Readers: How do I break a plateau without changing my whole routine?
Fit Trivia: Which 90s superhero film shows the lead hammering the heavy bag and shadowboxing in a gritty warehouse workout?
Why Most Guys Over 40 Don’t Push Hard Enough in the Gym
Here’s the truth: A lot of men over 40 think they’re training hard—when in reality, they’re just exercising.
The difference?
Exercising = moving, sweating, and feeling tired.
Training = structured, progressive, with intent and measurable goals.
If your sets end with 4–5 reps left in the tank every time, you’re not giving your muscles a reason to adapt. You don’t have to train to failure, but you should be close—especially on your last working set.
“Comfort zones maintain. Challenge zones transform.”
Next workout, ask yourself: “Am I coasting—or am I progressing?”
 | FROM RYAN’S DESKYou don’t need to overhaul your life overnight. Hit your workout today, prep your meals, drink your water. Do it again tomorrow. Those small wins compound, and before long, you’ve built a body and mindset that demand respect. Success isn’t one big leap—it’s a thousand small steps done relentlessly.  |
Quick Hit Tip:
Double Progression Beats Random PR Chasing
Pick a rep range (e.g., 6–8).
Add reps session to session until you cap it.
Then add a bit of weight and restart at the low end.
Simple, joint-friendly, and progress you can sustain for years.
Question from Our Readers:
“How do I break a plateau without changing my whole routine?”
– Nate, 51, from Raleigh
Try these in order:
Tighten rest to 60–90s on accessories; 90–150s on big lifts.
Add a set to your main lift (e.g., 3→4 sets) for 2–3 weeks.
Tempo tweak: 3-sec lowers on presses/rows; slight pause at the bottom of squats/RDLs.
Micro-load: Add 2.5–5 lbs—progress doesn’t have to be dramatic to work.
If performance rises, you didn’t need a new program—you needed better progression.
Fit Trivia: Which 90s superhero film shows the lead hammering the heavy bag and shadowboxing in a gritty warehouse workout scene?
Answer: Blade (1998)! Wesley Snipes blended martial arts conditioning with raw, functional training—proof that crisp technique plus relentless reps can make you look (and move) like a superhero.
 | Ryan Engel, Intl. Fat Loss Coach Ryan is a leading fitness coach and one of the most known professionals in the space. He specializes in Body Recomposition and visual body aesthetics and has reached millions worldwide with his powerful messaging. He brings a unique, non-nonsense, yet sophisticated approach to body change. |
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Publisher: Ryan Engel
Editor: Michael Pender
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