Anyone who has spent time working toward fitness goals has likely experienced the frustration of hitting a plateau. Progress that once seemed steady suddenly grinds to a halt, leaving many wondering what went wrong. Whether it’s strength training, endurance, or weight loss, plateaus are a natural part of the process. However, they don’t have to be permanent. Understanding why they happen and how to push past them can make all the difference in maintaining progress and staying motivated. One of the most common reasons for stagnation is the body’s remarkable ability to adapt. When a workout routine remains the same for too long, the muscles, cardiovascular system, and even metabolism adjust to the workload, making further gains harder to achieve. This is where progressive overload—a fundamental principle in training—comes into play. Increasing resistance, adjusting repetitions, or incorporating new movements forces the body to continue adapting, preventing plateaus from setting in.…