How Often Should You Compete (or Max Out) in Weightlifting?
At MWBC, we're all about pushing limits and chasing gains – whether you're a seasoned competitor or someone who loves the daily grind of training. We know everyone's different, with unique goals and motivations.
But one question we often hear is: "How often should I actually put myself to the test, either in competition or by maxing out in the gym?"
Well, as with everything in weightlifting, it depends. Let's break it down.
Competing and Maxing Out: More Than Just Numbers
First things first, competing and maxing out aren't just about hitting big numbers. They're skills that need to be honed, just like your clean & jerk technique or your squat depth. It takes practice to manage those pre-lift jitters, perform under pressure, and consistently reach peak performance.
Newbies vs. Veterans: Different Strokes for Different Folks
For the Newbies: If you've been lifting for less than a year, we encourage you to get out there and compete (or max out) more often! This is the time to soak up the experience, get comfortable under the barbell with heavier weights, and build the mental toughness that comes with pushing your limits. Plus, as a newbie, you're likely to see faster progress, making those frequent tests even more rewarding.
Hold Up, Though! Even for beginners, we recommend spacing out those max-out sessions or competitions to every 3-6 months. It's tempting to ride the high of a comp and sign up for the next one right away, but your body needs time to recover, rebuild, and get stronger. Too much intensity too often can lead to burnout, injury, or plateaus. We want you to build a solid foundation before you start stacking those plates!
For the Seasoned Crew: If you're a more experienced lifter, maxing out or competing too often can actually hinder your progress. Those heavy lifts take a bigger toll on your body, and gains come slower as you get stronger. Overtraining is a real risk, and nobody wants that! We recommend aiming for 2-3 meaningful competitions a year – ones where you can truly peak and show off your best.
Not Feeling the Comp Vibes? No worries! You can still challenge yourself and track progress without the pressure of a max-out or competition. Set technique goals, hit a 3-5 rep max, or focus on crushing those accessory exercises. There are plenty of ways to keep things exciting and push your boundaries!
Remember: It's YOUR Journey
At the end of the day, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. The ideal frequency of competition or maxing out depends on your experience, goals, and preferences. The most important thing is to work with your coach to create a plan that supports your long-term growth and keeps you lifting pain-free for years to come.
So, what are you waiting for? Let's chat about your goals and create a plan that's perfect for YOU! 💪
