Puzzle Pieces by Tony Searle Don't play it by the book. Bodybuilding may seem like a set of strict guidelines, rules of thumb, and principles which are universal to all. However, it is important to be an individual and learn your own body, both mentally and physically. After all, this is a sport that is based on development. This is a sport that concentrates on comparing one physique to the next. The human body is extremely complex, and it is very unique to everyone. A successful bodybuilder will, through years of trial and error, discover exactly what works best for him or her. Training, dieting, tanning, cardio, rest days- a top bodybuilder knows exactly what works and what doesn't. In the beginning, doing your research, reading the magazines, and emulating your favorite pro's routines and habits is a good idea. However, this should only be a starting point. This will give you a foundation from which you must build on, from which you must adapt and be receptive to necessary changes. For example, perhaps your favorite bodybuilder does 12 reps for every exercise. However, after months of doing this you feel you haven't grown or are too fatigued to recover after every workout. You then must be receptive and lower your reps. When I first began my journey, all the magazines and instructions from professionals were giving direct orders. It was advice such as, "Always do biceps with triceps," or "never train back after arms." These things seemed like the law. Nowadays our professionals and experts suggest possible ideas and alternate routines, and they stress the importance of learning your own body. There is no one right way to do a curl, or to organize your training split, or to diet precontest, or to bulk up in the offseason. There are many pieces to this sport's puzzle, and everyone's are shaped differently.