Australian_Mens_Fitness_April_2017

30 MEN’S FITNESS APRIL 2017

●Game Changers Training

Styling by Barret Wertz; Grooming by Casey Geren/Bernstein & Andriu i using

Laura Mercier; Fitness Tech: Jeb Stuart Johnston

pace!

When it comes to setting personal records in the weight room, it’s natural to focus on sets, reps, and weight. But most athletes

give little thought to tempo — the cadence at which a movement pattern is performed. Enter tempo training, which was popularized

years ago by strength coach Ian King but has resurged. And no wonder: Changing up tempo can produce dramatic results, including

increased strength, power and size. It can also help you bust through plateaus by mixing up stale routines that no longer generate

results. “By varying the speed, you trigger a response that creates muscle growth,” says gym-owner Ken Croner. What’s more,

being aware of your tempo ensures a more mindful workout, an antidote to all the digital distractions that’s made it difficult for

athletes — like everyone else — to concentrate on the rep at hand. “Focusing on your lifting tempo forces you to think about what

you’re doing,” says Croner. Muscular and mindful? Can’t beat that.

Change

t h e

Varying the tempo of

your workout can bring

huge improvements

in strength and power.

By Pete Williams

Photographs by James Michelfelder

You’ll achieve that

extra power boost

you’ve always

coveted if you toss

the medicine ball at

just a modest pace.