5 Common Muscle Building Mistakes (& How To Fix Them!)

Building muscle isn’t just about training hard - it’s about training smart. Even small muscle building mistakes can quietly hold you back, while a few simple tweaks to your training and recovery can unlock major results.

Here are five of the biggest bodybuilding mistakes we see here at Le Coach Fitness in Cambridge - and how to fix them.

Common Muscle Building Mistakes

1. Stalling Progressive Overload

Doing the same weights and reps for too long won’t build new muscle. Growth only happens when you gradually push your body to do more work. So don’t wait for sets to start feeling undemanding before adding weight. Aim for small increases or an extra rep or two every week.

2. Neglecting Recovery 

Your muscles grow when you rest, not while you lift, and so training more often doesn't necessarily mean better results. Prioritise quality sleep, schedule proper rest days and make sure you’re managing your stress levels. You can’t train effectively if your batteries are drained.

3. Not Eating Enough Protein

Even the best training plan won’t work without proper fuel and not eating enough protein is a very common muscle building mistake. It limits growth because it limits recovery. Eat balanced meals every few hours, and also top up with extra protein sources like shakes, eggs or yoghurt.

4. Overemphasising Isolation Exercises

Endless curls won’t build a complete physique. Its compound movements that build the foundation and isolation work that fine tunes it. Therefore, base your sessions around squats, presses, rows and deadlifts before adding in muscle isolation exercises to target specific areas.  

5. Lack of Consistency

This might be the biggest bodybuilding mistake of all, especially after initial gains slow down. Results come through by you showing up week after week, there simply are no shortcuts. So follow a structured program that’s tailored to you, track your progress and stay patient. 

Take Your Training Further

Ready to take any guesswork out of building muscle? Our personal trainers can help you build muscle the smartest way - with custom plans, expert technique guidance and accountability that keeps you consistent.