what changed was they got stronger so they used heavier weights. my point is, the failure of many workout programs to continue to see results can be as simple as a progression plan. you get stronger, you need more weight, not a different stimulus.
This is a take home bullet point
It is not the exercises your body adapts to, as much as it is the weight being used. So, increasing the loads, thru progression, perhaps along with volumes, frequencies, certainly determination and having your head into it, etc. are huge keys to keep moving into higher levels.
Actual specific routines are low on the list of successes, as opposed to WORKING a said routine.
Knowing when to push hard and when to pull back some, can be very helpful in moving forward, but comes with experience and time under the bar.
i recommend people doing proven programs. if nothing else it teaches a person all the components. by reviewing several programs and doing them you start to see how those components are related. in that you change one how you need to change the others to fit.
Right. Otherwise you can fall into the trap of searching for the perfect routine (that does not really exist) and even worse, the dreaded CRCing or constant routine changing, looking for the holy grail. There are quite a few proven routines that work and many top lifters have used them for lifetimes.
Usually using loads in the 80% of anytime maxes, and for multi sets and reps are some of the most basic and successfully set up routines.
And honestly, 3-4 times per week can be plenty for the masses on weight work, maybe adding other cadio stuff ie: basketball etc. etc. etc. over top thru the week.