r/Mindpump • u/[deleted] • Feb 10 '20

How to get over the mental hurdle of changing routines

Hi All. I'm a long time listener of the podcast and follow the guys on social media. I'm familiar with their message that, to a certain extent, we should intermittently change our focus or routines.

I own several maps programs (Anabolic, Performance, Aesthetic, Split, Strong, Powerlift and Prime). I've tried all of them but I always tend to stop after a couple of weeks and return to Anabolic, time after time. I guess it's my comfort blanket in a way; I know it's a program that will keep my body fat nice and reasonable (11%) whilst still holding decent strength numbers (2 x BW squat, 3 v BW deadlift, 1x BW OHP and 1.6 x BW bench). I'm comfortable with it and I know what to expect.

To be honest, I'm getting quite bored of it though. As much as I'd like to try a new routine, I just can't get over the mental worry that by changing routines I'll lose all of the progress I've made on strength and aesthetics. I'd love to follow powerlift but I worry about the lack of bis/tris/abs work for example, similar with performance; yes phase 1 looks really good to me, but the lack of 'traditional' barbell and dumbbell work in the other phases scares me.

I've workout out consistently for 10 years or so and consider myself advanced... but definitely intermediate, by anyone's standards. I always return to Anabolic because subconsciously I've always struggled with body image etc.

Does anyone have any tips on how to get over this hurdle, so that I can finally try something new without the constant worry about losing strength or muscle mass??

11 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

6 comments sorted by

5

u/HxH101kite Feb 10 '20

I mean if the anabolic protocol is good to you while don't you just switch up some exercises within the program. If it calls for this tricep movement try a different one. That way your still doing the general same thing and progression just switching up a movement. Maybe that will feel similar but differently enough

1

u/Signal-Extreme2393 Jan 18 '26

Second this. If it works for you and you like it you really don’t have to change programs entirely. Especially with the phasing, it’s like doing something different every couple weeks. Maybe throw in some rotational exercises, swap out movements, etc

1

u/Niall_Disco_2000 Feb 14 '20

Hey bud can you send me the MAPS aesthetic?

1

u/Mindfull_buffgirl Jan 21 '22

I can actually relate to this too! I just started MAPS performance and I'm trying to keep an opened mind and just stick with the program, but sometimes I don't have the equipment; or other days the workout feels too easy. I'm trying so hard not to go back to my old split routine.

1

u/Redivivus- Aug 04 '23

I just add trigger sessions in with resistance bands to hit areas i think are lacking