Each month, magazine editors manage to create 400+ pages of “new and improved” information on bodybuilding. It seems odd, as we’ve all been eating the same food and lifting the same weights the same way for 100+ years. What could possibly change each month that warrants 400+ pages of reading? Well, not too much. Bodybuilding magazines should always be read with a grain of salt. They are useful in motivating you, teaching you about the latest popular training methods, and giving you insight on new innovations in supplements. Used properly, correctly, they can help you read your goals.

Read the training articles on the same day you train those body parts

Whether you train instinctually or by a set regimen, you apply the things you read in magazines to your training protocols. Like most things useful, it’s best to have this information fresh in your mind. If it is back day – read about a top pro’s back routine as you do your cardio warm-up. If it’s leg day, skim through an article on improving quad sweep while stretching out before your workout. Having this information available in you mind when it’s most needed (during the workout) is the way to go. Training articles are good for both motivation and know-how.

Be realistic about the numbers

When it comes to number of sets, weights used, and calories consumed – you absolutely should not emulate the routines of the pros. They are conditioned by year of heavy exercise, they are genetic freaks (hence faster recovery), and they may use a level of sports supplementation/ drug use that you will never see. Copying what a top bodybuilding champion does will not make you look like him – it will only leave you overtrained and looking like a worse version of yourself.

Read the nutrition articles right before you head to the grocery store.

The articles in bodybuilding magazines are often terrific and very useful when planning meals. However, when you hit the grocery store, it’s often hard to remember every part of every great muscle-building meal. Next time, read the nutrition articles right before you take your trip. Then, make a list of the foods you’ll need, and take it shopping with you.

Look for scientific findings that apply to YOU

Most of the magazines devote a full 20%+ to recent scientific findings in the fields of health, exercise, and other fields related to bodybuilding. Skim these articles, taking note of any research or studies which might influence you directly. Remember – you’re not just seeking information about reaching your bodybuilding goals – you’re also trying to learn everything you can about staying healthy and living a long life.

So the next time you’d like a new edge in your training, nutrition, or supplement routine, pick up a muscle magazine. The next time you need some inspiration or are looking for a new supplement to address a specific need you might have, give it a read. But as with most things in life, use it correctly, and you’ll get the most out of it!

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