More is not better, more intense is.

Do what it takes to be the best you can possibly be as an athlete. Plug into these tips to give yourself the edge!

• Always train until failure. Do as many reps as you can with the weight you are training with.

• Take from two to three minutes break between sets. Take the time to recover so that you are recharged before you do that next set!

• Inhale on the negative part of the lift (the lowering segment), and exhale on the positive part of the lift (the exertion).

• Drink plenty of water. During your break time between sets be sure to take plenty of fluids.

• Flexibility is key! As you are adding muscular strength or mass be sure to increase your flexibility as well. Strength lightly after each set and after every workout. Flexibility will help to prevent injury.

• Never sacrifice form for weight! It is more important to do the exercise properly than how much you can lift.

• Keep your workout fairly short - 45 minutes or less. You don't have to live in the weight room to have great results. You should be able to keep your total sets per body part at six or less. Remember you are not a bodybuilder, but an athlete training in a specific sport. Strength training is just part of your sport - spend more time in specific technique training.

• Change up your routine. Your body will learn to adapt to the stress of your weight program. Every so often use alternate exercises or change up the order of your lifts.