There are many factors to consider when deciding how many reps to choose. But, generally speaking, you should aim for twice the amount of reps performed during your first set. If I was able bench a weight for eight reps during the first set of reps, I would aim to get 8 more reps in each subsequent set to achieve the goal of 16.
Although rest-pause training can be a great way to gain the strength or size you desire, there are some things you need to keep in mind.
Register below to get the latest workout routines, recipes and news stories from our partners.
It is definitely more of both the former than traditional lifting. You do one set and then rest for several minutes before you start the next set.
For example, if you start using a 15-pound dumbbell to triceps extensions you'll lose 12 pounds in your second set. Next, 10 pounds will be used for your second set. Finally, 8 pounds will be used for your fifth set.
You should also remember to not be rigid in your beliefs about training. Even if it works, it may not be the right fit for you long-term. Everybody reacts differently to various intensities, volumes, and frequency. If rest-pause doesn't feel right, don't use it. Your training should be compatible with your body and mind, and should last for more than a few sessions. Don't be discouraged if it doesn't meet your needs.
We have another study that tells a lot. Although it doesn't exactly match the rest-pause protocol coaches recommend, this one did make both groups fail by forcing them to train to failure. Korak and the collogues compared neural activation, strength and volume between a traditional lifting and rest-pause groups.
For the most part I would recommend rest-pause training only when I have the energy. This technique is extremely draining, and it can become exhausting if used in conjunction with other intensity techniques. If you only use it occasionally, it can be a great tool that has many benefits.
You don't need to harm yourself but you want to make sure you're pushing your limits as much as possible.
There are many strength exercises that you can choose from, but they tend to be low-reps with long rest periods. You can also use rest-pause training to add a new spin. This involves using very low reps, difficult weight, and short rest periods.
It is important to not be rigid about your training principles. This might not work for you in the long-term or even short-term. Rest-pause is not the right choice if it doesn't feel right. Everyone reacts differently to different intensities, volume levels, frequency, and exercises. Training should suit you mentally and physically. It should also be sustainable over a number of sessions. You can be proud of your efforts if this does not fit the bill.
You will be interested in different training methods that allow you to do more work in less time if you want to increase the intensity of your workouts. Some popular examples include:
Although rest-pause does not work well in research when the design favors it it has some benefits in real life. Christian Thibaudeau says it may help someone train harder, especially for people who have heavy weights and need to do more volume.
Hypothetically speaking they might have looked like this as they got stronger for a given exercise.
My personal method for rest-pause is to practice it every other week. I love using intense techniques like rest-pause and drop sets, but I know it will bore me if I do it every other week. Drop sets and rest-pause make each week a bit more intense.
The traditional group performed 3 sets of 6 with the same load as the 1-rep max load. A person using 80% of 1-rep maximum load should be capable of completing at least 7-8 reps if they are taken to failure. However, the traditional group was only required to complete 6 reps per set.
Example: A 15-pound dumbbell is used initially for triceps extension. Then you will use a 10 lb dumbbell, then a 10 lb dumbbell, and finally a 8 lb dumbbell.
For hypertrophy, you might be more concerned with your muscle size or aesthetics. The rest-pause technique for hypertrophy can help.
While rest-pause sets are great and should be used, they're not superior to traditional sets. This is especially true if you match effort and use progressive overload.
Do not do 3 sets in this manner - I would never recommend more than one set of rest-pause per exercise. To cool off from intense lifting, you may do a light set.
The Rest-Pause Training Methods: Creating Intensity To New Muscle