When it comes to gym workouts, even small adjustments can lead to massive improvements. Recently, I had an experience at the gym that reminded me just how much technique matters. Let me share it with you.

The Common Gym Mistake

I was doing legs at the gym when I noticed a girl using the leg extension machine in front of me. She was making a common mistake I see all the time—fully locking out at the top of the rep and letting the weight drop at the bottom.

This may seem harmless, but it kills your momentum and significantly limits your progress. So, I walked up to her and shared some advice. She made the adjustment, and you could see her face light up as she felt the difference immediately.

The Secret: Time Under Tension (TUT)

The advice I gave her—and the game-changer for so many people—is to focus on Time Under Tension (TUT). TUT refers to the total time a muscle is held under tension during an exercise.

Here’s why it’s important:

• When you lock out at the top or let the weight drop at the bottom, you’re giving your muscles a mini-rest.
• This small rest adds up over time, reducing the overall intensity and effectiveness of your workout.

How to Apply TUT in Your Workouts

Next time you hit the gym, try this:

• Maintain tension throughout the entire rep. Avoid locking out or letting the weight drop.
• Focus on controlled movements. Use a slower tempo to really feel the burn.
• Adjust your weight. You might need to go lighter to keep the tension constant, and that’s okay—it means your muscles are working harder.

This approach works for any muscle group: legs, arms, shoulders, back—you name it.

The Results

Since incorporating TUT into my workouts, I’ve noticed some amazing changes:

• My sessions are shorter but more effective.
• I feel a stronger pump during and after the workout.
• My muscles are fatigued in the best way possible, leading to noticeable growth over time.

If you want to take your workouts to the next level, try incorporating Time Under Tension into your routine. It’s a simple tweak, but the impact it has on your progress is undeniable.

Love,

Yaslen XOXO