The Principle of Individualization: Personalizing Your Weight Training Program
The Principle of Individualization implies that individual differences require personalized adjustments to your
weight training program. Scientific principles provide excellent tools, and there are lots of very well-planned programs available, but your program must be effective
for you and your unique needs! 1
Standard lifting techniques and training principles apply to everyone, but that doesn't mean that everyone executes them in exactly the same way.
Gender Differences
and age are examples of qualities for which weight training programs must be adjusted. See
Senior Weight Training
Qualities such as your level of learning, muscle fiber type, and your natural ability determine your potential to develop fitness and sport skills, and each warrants consideration as you train. 2

Chinese and US Athletes in Beijing in 1975
Your previous experience with weight training, level of fitness, and experience with your sport all influence how you individualize your exercise program. 3
In addition, your medical history, disease, conditions, and previous injuries may also affect your selection of exercises and alternatives are best for your
fitness training goals.
Even your attitude toward training, level of motivation, and ability to stick with your program
affect your results.
These and many other factors that are unique to you are reasons to personalize your weight training program. You can do that by
setting clear goals
and regularly testing yourself to see how you are progressing.
Testing shows you how you can apply the Principle of Individualization to your own training. Your combined scores show where you are on qualities that are important to you. This allows you to make your own personal revisions to training.
Don't feel compelled to follow standardized weight training programs developed by fitness experts or champion competitors. Just as no two people are alike, there is no single best program for everyone.
Make sound, educated decisions about weight training, and allow yourself the latitude to adjust your program as you see fit. Your weight training program is only one part of your overall training program and a balanced lifestyle--make it work together for you!
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References
1. Fleck, S.J. & Kraemer, W.J. (1996). Periodization breakthrough! Ronkonkoma, NY: Advanced Research Press.
2. Schmidt, R.A. & Lee, T.D. (1991). Motor control and learning: A behavioral emphasis (3rd ed.). Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.
3. Magill, R.A. (2001). Motor learning: Concepts and applications (6th ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill.


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