To prevent stagnation, it is often recommended that bodybuilders vary their routines. This typically includes changing the amount of weight, number of sets, and reps. However, there is still another way that is extremely effective. It is changing the exercises that are used and how they are executed. But which exercises are effective substitutes for another exercise? This will be the focus of this article.
I will bring out which exercises closely approximate one another in relation to the muscle development achieved. Brought in will be in which range of motion there is duplication in regard to muscle involvement and where the emphasis is placed. I will examine most of the common exercises for each of the major body parts to show which ones are “equal” or supplementary substitutes.
For example, all triceps pushdowns are not equal. The lying 45 degree triceps extension is different from the lying triceps press and the overhead triceps and so on. By looking at the different exercises, the reader will get a much better idea of what each exercise truly does, and then be able to make some effective substitutes when needed. Not only will this give them more variety in their training program but it should stimulate them to even greater growth and interest in bodybuilding. It will also lead to better or fuller muscle development by using different exercises to maximize the development of each muscle.