Constant change is imperative if you want to push your body to its limits, explains PT Natalie Carter

Keep an exercise diary

Training is about coming out of your comfort zone and constantly striving to break records or try new activities. I recommend that people keep an exercise diary to help break through plateaus and push your training to the next level.

Recording your workouts will give you objective feedback and makes planning to achieve your goals easier.

Increase your reps

Work on increasing your lifts/reps every one to two weeks (depending on how advanced you are). Even if it means you lift an extra kilo or push out an extra rep, you are constantly working on improving on your last session.

Change your workout

Giving your program a tweak (with the help of a fitness professional) will ensure you meet your goals but push yourself to get into the best shape of your life. Try a crossfit or MMA class to imbue your life with fire 
and drive.

DON’T continue to plough through the same six to 10 exercises on your gym program, dodging the trainer you had one session with and telling all your friends how ‘hard’ you 
work out.

Next: Fnind out how many reps you should do and choose your next workout.