Getting 1-2 more reps when you're already spent

We've all been there. We hit the wall on a set of a strength exercise such as dips, squats, pulldowns, rows, or whatever the exercise happens to be. We've run out of gas and just can't get another rep.

Well, often times you can get another rep...sometime even two more reps.

If you'll do two simple things, often times you can get another rep or even two more reps when you thought you had reached your limit.

Its as simple as this:

1. Tighten your core as though you're bracing to take a punch in the gut
   
2. Clinch your fists as tight as you can as though your life depended on it
   

The way it works is this:

The core (abdominal area of the body) stabilizes your spine. When your spine is stable, your nervous system tells your muscles that its safe to contract at maximum force because the spine is stable and safe. So by activating your core intensely you are essentially telling the body that the spine is stable and that its okay to contract your muscles at their absolute maximum intensity.

Gripping your hands tightly stimulates the nervous system and the nervous system is what stimulates your muscles to contract. By tightening your grip, you intensify whatever other muscles contraction you are engaging in elsewhere in the body.

These two little tricks are simple.  But they are highly effective.

Try them next time you get stuck on a rep and see what happens. you won't be disappointed.