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1 set per exercise to absolute failure. Heavy, controlled reps. Then recover 4-7+ days. Growth happens in rest, not the gym. Intensity over volume.

Mike Mentzer

2,914 subscribers

53,712 views • 2 months ago •via X (Twitter)

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A new 2025 study squashed the idea that more volume increases growth, and suggested that the available growth reps in a set might just be the final four:⠀ ⠀ Trained lifters did 3-5RM on one leg and 20-25RM on the other for 9 weeks: both to failure.⠀ ⠀ Results?⠀ ⠀ Same hypertrophy. Same strength.⠀ ⠀ Only real difference: light loads improved endurance.⠀ ⠀ Why?⠀ ⠀ Because growth only happens in the final 4 reps when full motor recruitment finally kicks in.⠀ ⠀ Heavy loads reach those reps instantly.⠀ ⠀ Light loads need 15-20 junk reps just to get there.⠀ ⠀ More volume doesn’t mean more growth.⠀ ⠀ Only the stimulating reps count, and every set, heavy or light, only has about four of them.⠀ ⠀ If there were 6 stimulating reps in a set, even 5, we would have seen a difference in hypertrophy between the limbs.⠀ ⠀ This is a magnificent success for my agenda of 4-6 rep supremacy.⠀ ⠀ PMID: 40827709

A new 2025 study squashed the idea that more volume increases growth, and suggested that the available growth reps in a set might just be the final four:⠀ ⠀ Trained lifters did 3-5RM on one leg and 20-25RM on the other for 9 weeks: both to failure.⠀ ⠀ Results?⠀ ⠀ Same hypertrophy. Same strength.⠀ ⠀ Only real difference: light loads improved endurance.⠀ ⠀ Why?⠀ ⠀ Because growth only happens in the final 4 reps when full motor recruitment finally kicks in.⠀ ⠀ Heavy loads reach those reps instantly.⠀ ⠀ Light loads need 15-20 junk reps just to get there.⠀ ⠀ More volume doesn’t mean more growth.⠀ ⠀ Only the stimulating reps count, and every set, heavy or light, only has about four of them.⠀ ⠀ If there were 6 stimulating reps in a set, even 5, we would have seen a difference in hypertrophy between the limbs.⠀ ⠀ This is a magnificent success for my agenda of 4-6 rep supremacy.⠀ ⠀ PMID: 40827709

Sama Hoole

224,530 views • 8 months ago

I never built my training around going to failure every set. For me, it was high volume, short rest, and controlled reps. Train hard, but be smart with your body.

I never built my training around going to failure every set. For me, it was high volume, short rest, and controlled reps. Train hard, but be smart with your body.

Jay Cutler

22,616 views • 26 days ago

Instagrams what_the_heck71 Machine in the gym, robot outside the gym. Training: 4 day split Upper, Lower, Upper, Lower Low volume, high intensity progressive overload All sets pushed to failure or 1 rep shy of

Instagrams what_the_heck71 Machine in the gym, robot outside the gym. Training: 4 day split Upper, Lower, Upper, Lower Low volume, high intensity progressive overload All sets pushed to failure or 1 rep shy of

💯𖤍 RØdneyRɆmix 𖤍 💯

35,457 views • 8 months ago

i was asked what i do in the gym: Back day: Weighted Pull ups 3 sets to failure Bodyweight Pull ups to failure Narrow Grip Row 3 sets 6-8 reps Wide Grip Row 3 sets 4-6 reps Tricep Pulldowns Heavy set 4-6 reps into 6-12 reps half weight Skullcrushers 6-8 Reps 3 sets Behind Back Barbell Press, 3 sets 6-8 reps Delt Flys 3 sets 8-10 reps Body Weight Pull ups to burn out

i was asked what i do in the gym: Back day: Weighted Pull ups 3 sets to failure Bodyweight Pull ups to failure Narrow Grip Row 3 sets 6-8 reps Wide Grip Row 3 sets 4-6 reps Tricep Pulldowns Heavy set 4-6 reps into 6-12 reps half weight Skullcrushers 6-8 Reps 3 sets Behind Back Barbell Press, 3 sets 6-8 reps Delt Flys 3 sets 8-10 reps Body Weight Pull ups to burn out

Meecha Clause

398,420 views • 9 months ago

Fix #1: Stop training 7 days a week. Over-training destroys testosterone faster than under-training. Heavy compound movements 3-4x per week with adequate recovery beats daily gym sessions. Your body needs rest to produce hormones:

Fix #1: Stop training 7 days a week. Over-training destroys testosterone faster than under-training. Heavy compound movements 3-4x per week with adequate recovery beats daily gym sessions. Your body needs rest to produce hormones:

Michael Morelli

644,389 views • 1 year ago

If you’re hitting 2, 3, 4 reps on a working set that ends in close proximity to failure….that weight is too heavy for you If you’re hitting 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 reps on a working set that ends in close proximity to failure….that weight is perfect for you If you’re hitting 10, 11, 12 reps on a working set that ends in close proximity to failure….that weight is too light for you It is literally THIS SIMPLE, folks!

If you’re hitting 2, 3, 4 reps on a working set that ends in close proximity to failure….that weight is too heavy for you If you’re hitting 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 reps on a working set that ends in close proximity to failure….that weight is perfect for you If you’re hitting 10, 11, 12 reps on a working set that ends in close proximity to failure….that weight is too light for you It is literally THIS SIMPLE, folks!

Dean Turner

1,130,774 views • 2 months ago

If you’re hitting 2, 3, 4 reps on a working set that ends in close proximity to failure….that weight is too heavy for you If you’re hitting 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 reps on a working set that ends in close proximity to failure….that weight is perfect for you If you’re hitting 10, 11, 12 reps on a working set that ends in close proximity to failure….that weight is too light for you It is literally THIS SIMPLE, folks!

If you’re hitting 2, 3, 4 reps on a working set that ends in close proximity to failure….that weight is too heavy for you If you’re hitting 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 reps on a working set that ends in close proximity to failure….that weight is perfect for you If you’re hitting 10, 11, 12 reps on a working set that ends in close proximity to failure….that weight is too light for you It is literally THIS SIMPLE, folks!

Dean Turner

133,364 views • 15 days ago

If you’re hitting 2, 3, 4 reps on a working set that ends in close proximity to failure….that weight is too heavy for you If you’re hitting 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 reps on a working set that ends in close proximity to failure….that weight is perfect for you If you’re hitting 10, 11, 12 reps on a working set that ends in close proximity to failure….that weight is too light for you It is literally THIS SIMPLE, folks!

If you’re hitting 2, 3, 4 reps on a working set that ends in close proximity to failure….that weight is too heavy for you If you’re hitting 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 reps on a working set that ends in close proximity to failure….that weight is perfect for you If you’re hitting 10, 11, 12 reps on a working set that ends in close proximity to failure….that weight is too light for you It is literally THIS SIMPLE, folks!

Dean Turner

543,785 views • 1 month ago

Here’s my high volume upper-body workout 🖤 1.Pec deck - 4 sets of low weight and high repetition, rep range of 12-15 2.Incline dumbbell press - 2 warm up sets of 12-15 reps then 3 working sets of 10-12 reps (progressive overload), superset into Lateral raise 3 x 12-15 reps 3. Lat pulldown - 4 x 12-15 reps,5th set train till absolute failure superset into Face pulls 4 x 15 reps 4.Superset : seated Tricep dips with bench tricep dips for a killer finisher - 4 sets of 15-20 reps on each exercise. Thanks for watching ☺️💕

Here’s my high volume upper-body workout 🖤 1.Pec deck - 4 sets of low weight and high repetition, rep range of 12-15 2.Incline dumbbell press - 2 warm up sets of 12-15 reps then 3 working sets of 10-12 reps (progressive overload), superset into Lateral raise 3 x 12-15 reps 3. Lat pulldown - 4 x 12-15 reps,5th set train till absolute failure superset into Face pulls 4 x 15 reps 4.Superset : seated Tricep dips with bench tricep dips for a killer finisher - 4 sets of 15-20 reps on each exercise. Thanks for watching ☺️💕

Faustina Thobakgale

200,794 views • 2 years ago

We’re back with another great ladder rep-scheme workout! 💪🪜 Add volume to your workouts while getting some serious strength work done and adapting to managing your fatigue. You will only climb the ladder as far as you are physically able. As you progress, you can add additional reps to the ladder. Perform three rounds of a 1-to-4 rep ladder on the following three exercises: kettlebell swing kettlebell goblet squat kettlebell goblet lunges (per leg) The sequence looks like: 1 rep of kettlebell swing + 1 rep of goblet squat + 1 rep of lunge per leg, then 2 reps of kettlebell swings + 2 reps of kettlebell goblet squats + 2 reps of lunges per leg, then 3 reps of kettlebell swings + 3 reps of goblet squats + 3 reps of lunges per leg, then 4 reps of kettlebell swings + 4 reps of kettlebell goblet squats + 4 reps of kettlebell lunges per leg. Once you get to 4, rest for 90 seconds before repeating for two more rounds. As you progress, work your way up to performing a 1-to-10 rep ladder with these exercises. Let us know how your legs feel! #Workout #WorkoutWednesday #MPC2023 #MPC #MyPeakChallenge #SamHeughan

We’re back with another great ladder rep-scheme workout! 💪🪜 Add volume to your workouts while getting some serious strength work done and adapting to managing your fatigue. You will only climb the ladder as far as you are physically able. As you progress, you can add additional reps to the ladder. Perform three rounds of a 1-to-4 rep ladder on the following three exercises: kettlebell swing kettlebell goblet squat kettlebell goblet lunges (per leg) The sequence looks like: 1 rep of kettlebell swing + 1 rep of goblet squat + 1 rep of lunge per leg, then 2 reps of kettlebell swings + 2 reps of kettlebell goblet squats + 2 reps of lunges per leg, then 3 reps of kettlebell swings + 3 reps of goblet squats + 3 reps of lunges per leg, then 4 reps of kettlebell swings + 4 reps of kettlebell goblet squats + 4 reps of kettlebell lunges per leg. Once you get to 4, rest for 90 seconds before repeating for two more rounds. As you progress, work your way up to performing a 1-to-10 rep ladder with these exercises. Let us know how your legs feel! #Workout #WorkoutWednesday #MPC2023 #MPC #MyPeakChallenge #SamHeughan

My Peak Challenge

56,770 views • 3 years ago

The greatest biceps exercise in the world is the close-grip underhand pulldown/pull-ups – heavy, full range, to absolute failure. Nothing else comes close for building massive arms.

The greatest biceps exercise in the world is the close-grip underhand pulldown/pull-ups – heavy, full range, to absolute failure. Nothing else comes close for building massive arms.

Mike Mentzer

2,545,099 views • 1 month ago

The GREATEST 4x Per Week Workout Plan known to man: UPPER A Exercise 1: Seated/Flat Chest Press Machine — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 2: Wide Grip Lat Pull-Down — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 3: Seated Low to High Cable Flys — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 4: Chest Supported Machine Rows w/ Neutral Grip — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 5: Seated Machine OHP — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 6: Seated Machine or Dumbbell Curls w/ Upper Arm Support — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 7: Incline Bench Cable Tricep Push-Downs — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 8: Seated Dumbbell Hammer Curls w/ Upper Arm Support — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR LOWER A Exercise 1: Leg Extensions — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 2: Seated or Prone Leg Curls — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 3: Pendulum or Hack Squats — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 4: 45 Degree Extensions — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 5: ADduction Machine — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 6: Ab Crunch Machine — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 7: Calf Press on Leg Press — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR (Partial reps from the dorsiflexed position to the neutral foot position) UPPER B Exercise 1: Incline Machine Press — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 2: Chest Supported Machine Rows w/ Pronated Grip — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 3: Pec Fly Machine — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 4: Single Arm Lat Pull-Down — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 5: Cable or Machine Lateral Raises — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 6: Cable or Machine Preacher Curls — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 7: Cable or Machine Overhead Tricep Extensions — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 8: Seated Dumbbell Hammer Curls w/ Upper Arm Support — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR LOWER B Exercise 1: Seated Leg Curls — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 2: Leg Extensions — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 3: 45 Degree Extensions or SLDL/RDLs — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 4: Calf Press on Leg Press — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR (Partial reps from the dorsiflexed position to the neutral foot position) Exercise 5: 45 Degree Leg Press — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 6: Ab Crunch Machine — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 7: Machine Hip Thrusts — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Notes: 𝗩𝗔𝗥𝗜𝗔𝗕𝗟𝗘 𝗦𝗘𝗧𝗦 If you see an exercise with a VARIABLE set count listed (Ex: 2-3x5-10), you should do the HIGHER NUMBER in the event that you are some combination of: -Not pressed for time -Do not need to decrease your time spent during rest periods in order to fit all of the work in even if selecting the higher number If you see an exercise with a VARIABLE set count listed (Ex: 2-3x5-10), you should do the LOWER NUMBER in the event that you are some combination of: -Pressed for time -Would need to decrease time spent during rest periods in order to fit all the work in if selecting the higher number 𝗜𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗡𝗦𝗜𝗧𝗬 If you do NOT trust your ability to gauge RIR accurately, take sets to ~0 RIR/Failure to ensure you’re not sandbagging sets Should you elect to do so, be sure NOT to take any 50/50 reps (reps you’re not sure you’ll get) on exercises like Hack Squats to avoid ending up in a susceptible position 𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗧 3-3+ minutes rest between WORKING sets is ideal. 2 is fine but that is the ABSOLUTE FLOOR!!! 1-2 minutes rest is fine between WARM UP sets

The GREATEST 4x Per Week Workout Plan known to man: UPPER A Exercise 1: Seated/Flat Chest Press Machine — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 2: Wide Grip Lat Pull-Down — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 3: Seated Low to High Cable Flys — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 4: Chest Supported Machine Rows w/ Neutral Grip — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 5: Seated Machine OHP — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 6: Seated Machine or Dumbbell Curls w/ Upper Arm Support — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 7: Incline Bench Cable Tricep Push-Downs — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 8: Seated Dumbbell Hammer Curls w/ Upper Arm Support — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR LOWER A Exercise 1: Leg Extensions — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 2: Seated or Prone Leg Curls — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 3: Pendulum or Hack Squats — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 4: 45 Degree Extensions — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 5: ADduction Machine — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 6: Ab Crunch Machine — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 7: Calf Press on Leg Press — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR (Partial reps from the dorsiflexed position to the neutral foot position) UPPER B Exercise 1: Incline Machine Press — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 2: Chest Supported Machine Rows w/ Pronated Grip — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 3: Pec Fly Machine — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 4: Single Arm Lat Pull-Down — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 5: Cable or Machine Lateral Raises — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 6: Cable or Machine Preacher Curls — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 7: Cable or Machine Overhead Tricep Extensions — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 8: Seated Dumbbell Hammer Curls w/ Upper Arm Support — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR LOWER B Exercise 1: Seated Leg Curls — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 2: Leg Extensions — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 3: 45 Degree Extensions or SLDL/RDLs — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 4: Calf Press on Leg Press — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR (Partial reps from the dorsiflexed position to the neutral foot position) Exercise 5: 45 Degree Leg Press — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 6: Ab Crunch Machine — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 7: Machine Hip Thrusts — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Notes: 𝗩𝗔𝗥𝗜𝗔𝗕𝗟𝗘 𝗦𝗘𝗧𝗦 If you see an exercise with a VARIABLE set count listed (Ex: 2-3x5-10), you should do the HIGHER NUMBER in the event that you are some combination of: -Not pressed for time -Do not need to decrease your time spent during rest periods in order to fit all of the work in even if selecting the higher number If you see an exercise with a VARIABLE set count listed (Ex: 2-3x5-10), you should do the LOWER NUMBER in the event that you are some combination of: -Pressed for time -Would need to decrease time spent during rest periods in order to fit all the work in if selecting the higher number 𝗜𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗡𝗦𝗜𝗧𝗬 If you do NOT trust your ability to gauge RIR accurately, take sets to ~0 RIR/Failure to ensure you’re not sandbagging sets Should you elect to do so, be sure NOT to take any 50/50 reps (reps you’re not sure you’ll get) on exercises like Hack Squats to avoid ending up in a susceptible position 𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗧 3-3+ minutes rest between WORKING sets is ideal. 2 is fine but that is the ABSOLUTE FLOOR!!! 1-2 minutes rest is fine between WARM UP sets

Dean Turner

87,328 views • 2 months ago

It’s the result of those retarded bodybuilding programs built around 4 sets per exercise and 10 exercises per session. If intensity is high enough, you can’t reproduce the same performance on the next set. Real effort drops your output fast. If you can keep repeating the same numbers, you’re still far from failure, which is what actually triggers muscle growth. That’s why workouts rarely need to last more than ~45 minutes when intensity is real. I learned this the hard way. I trained 10+ years, often 2 hours a day, 6x a week, thinking I was hitting failure. Then I trained with a powerlifter friend (former French bench press champion and European vice-champion) and it hurt my ego, I was actually about 6 reps away from true failure ! Strength training isn’t endurance cardio (running, cycling, etc.) where more time means more stimulus. Muscle growth comes from high mechanical tension and recruiting high-threshold motor units, which happens as you approach failure. A few very hard sets often produce more stimulus than many low-effort ones. I explain how to design an efficient workout in detail in this free guide (Chapter 4):

It’s the result of those retarded bodybuilding programs built around 4 sets per exercise and 10 exercises per session. If intensity is high enough, you can’t reproduce the same performance on the next set. Real effort drops your output fast. If you can keep repeating the same numbers, you’re still far from failure, which is what actually triggers muscle growth. That’s why workouts rarely need to last more than ~45 minutes when intensity is real. I learned this the hard way. I trained 10+ years, often 2 hours a day, 6x a week, thinking I was hitting failure. Then I trained with a powerlifter friend (former French bench press champion and European vice-champion) and it hurt my ego, I was actually about 6 reps away from true failure ! Strength training isn’t endurance cardio (running, cycling, etc.) where more time means more stimulus. Muscle growth comes from high mechanical tension and recruiting high-threshold motor units, which happens as you approach failure. A few very hard sets often produce more stimulus than many low-effort ones. I explain how to design an efficient workout in detail in this free guide (Chapter 4):

Jamal Dinkoui

68,585 views • 5 months ago

Example of a true working set... You’re probably doing way more sets than you need Trust me ⁠ Back in high school and college, I would lift 7 days a week, doing anywhere from 30 to 50 sets per day I used to think those 30-50 sets were the key to growth, but over time, I realized that most of those weren’t true working sets ⁠ Here’s the thing... If you can do 4 sets of 8 reps with the same weight each set, you’re probably not pushing yourself hard enough A true working set should leave you near failure within the target rep range ⁠ For example, let’s say your plan calls for 2 sets of 6-8 reps After a few warm up sets, you try 135 lbs and hit 8 reps, but you know you could have done 6 more That’s still a warm up set since you’re not reaching failure in the 6-8 rep range You’d then go up to 145 lbs and aim to fail around 6-8 reps If 145 still feels too light, that’s another warm up set You keep going up in weight until you find the load that challenges you to fail within that 6-8 range If you don’t have a spotter, leaving one or two reps in the tank is okay ⁠ This is where true muscle growth happens, by pushing close to your limit Sleep and diet is actually where muscle growth occurs but you never push yourself hard enough in the gym and give your body a reason to grow, hypertrophy will never happen The gym is just the stimulus to give the muscle a reason to grow We then get bigger through sleep and diet ⁠ Back to the working sets... For example, in the video, I hit 540 lbs for 8 reps on this hack squat Looking back, I feel I had one or two reps left, but it’s a solid starting point and it was a new PR for me at the time The next week, I would aim for 540 for 9-10 reps or bump up the weight to 545-550 and try to hit 8 reps aka progressive overload ⁠ I typically keep my quad and hamstring workouts separate and do only about 4-7 sets per muscle group, but each set is intense, and I’m struggling by the last few reps on each set ⁠ Give this approach a shot, and I promise you won’t need nearly as many sets as you think

Example of a true working set... You’re probably doing way more sets than you need Trust me ⁠ Back in high school and college, I would lift 7 days a week, doing anywhere from 30 to 50 sets per day I used to think those 30-50 sets were the key to growth, but over time, I realized that most of those weren’t true working sets ⁠ Here’s the thing... If you can do 4 sets of 8 reps with the same weight each set, you’re probably not pushing yourself hard enough A true working set should leave you near failure within the target rep range ⁠ For example, let’s say your plan calls for 2 sets of 6-8 reps After a few warm up sets, you try 135 lbs and hit 8 reps, but you know you could have done 6 more That’s still a warm up set since you’re not reaching failure in the 6-8 rep range You’d then go up to 145 lbs and aim to fail around 6-8 reps If 145 still feels too light, that’s another warm up set You keep going up in weight until you find the load that challenges you to fail within that 6-8 range If you don’t have a spotter, leaving one or two reps in the tank is okay ⁠ This is where true muscle growth happens, by pushing close to your limit Sleep and diet is actually where muscle growth occurs but you never push yourself hard enough in the gym and give your body a reason to grow, hypertrophy will never happen The gym is just the stimulus to give the muscle a reason to grow We then get bigger through sleep and diet ⁠ Back to the working sets... For example, in the video, I hit 540 lbs for 8 reps on this hack squat Looking back, I feel I had one or two reps left, but it’s a solid starting point and it was a new PR for me at the time The next week, I would aim for 540 for 9-10 reps or bump up the weight to 545-550 and try to hit 8 reps aka progressive overload ⁠ I typically keep my quad and hamstring workouts separate and do only about 4-7 sets per muscle group, but each set is intense, and I’m struggling by the last few reps on each set ⁠ Give this approach a shot, and I promise you won’t need nearly as many sets as you think

Bailey Schober | Men’s Fitness & Nutrition Coach

23,353 views • 6 months ago

This German made Gym80 brand chest supported row rocks Switching over to it as my 'back thickness' exercise. DC set, 2 rest pauses, 3 points of mechanical failure, then Kelso shrugs after, and weighted stretched after that

Richard

23,538 views • 1 month ago

Switched from SLDL/RDLs to these ham extensions Still the same rep scheme of 1 set, 2 rest pauses (3 points of mechanical failure) 70 lbs x 13 reps total Hams smoked

Switched from SLDL/RDLs to these ham extensions Still the same rep scheme of 1 set, 2 rest pauses (3 points of mechanical failure) 70 lbs x 13 reps total Hams smoked

Richard

24,130 views • 11 months ago

I will decipher the schedule laid out in the original post by hitting you guys with…. The GREATEST 4x Per Week Workout Plan known to man: UPPER A Exercise 1: Seated/Flat Chest Press Machine — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 2: Wide Grip Lat Pull-Down — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 3: Seated Low to High Cable Flys — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 4: Chest Supported Machine Rows w/ Neutral Grip — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 5: Seated Machine OHP — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 6: Seated Machine or Dumbbell Curls w/ Upper Arm Support — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 7: Incline Bench Cable Tricep Push-Downs — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 8: Seated Dumbbell Hammer Curls w/ Upper Arm Support — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR LOWER A Exercise 1: Leg Extensions — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 2: Seated or Prone Leg Curls — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 3: Pendulum or Hack Squats — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 4: 45 Degree Extensions — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 5: ADduction Machine — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 6: Ab Crunch Machine — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 7: Calf Press on Leg Press — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR (Partial reps from the dorsiflexed position to the neutral foot position) UPPER B Exercise 1: Incline Machine Press — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 2: Chest Supported Machine Rows w/ Pronated Grip — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 3: Pec Fly Machine — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 4: Single Arm Lat Pull-Down — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 5: Cable or Machine Lateral Raises — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 6: Cable or Machine Preacher Curls — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 7: Cable or Machine Overhead Tricep Extensions — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 8: Seated Dumbbell Hammer Curls w/ Upper Arm Support — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR LOWER B Exercise 1: Seated Leg Curls — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 2: Leg Extensions — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 3: 45 Degree Extensions or SLDL/RDLs — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 4: Calf Press on Leg Press — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR (Partial reps from the dorsiflexed position to the neutral foot position) Exercise 5: 45 Degree Leg Press — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 6: Ab Crunch Machine — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 7: Machine Hip Thrusts — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Notes: 𝗩𝗔𝗥𝗜𝗔𝗕𝗟𝗘 𝗦𝗘𝗧𝗦 If you see an exercise with a VARIABLE set count listed (Ex: 2-3x5-10), you should do the HIGHER NUMBER in the event that you are some combination of: -Not pressed for time -Do not need to decrease your time spent during rest periods in order to fit all of the work in even if selecting the higher number If you see an exercise with a VARIABLE set count listed (Ex: 2-3x5-10), you should do the LOWER NUMBER in the event that you are some combination of: -Pressed for time -Would need to decrease time spent during rest periods in order to fit all the work in if selecting the higher number 𝗜𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗡𝗦𝗜𝗧𝗬 If you do NOT trust your ability to gauge RIR accurately, take sets to ~0 RIR/Failure to ensure you’re not sandbagging sets Should you elect to do so, be sure NOT to take any 50/50 reps (reps you’re not sure you’ll get) on exercises like Hack Squats to avoid ending up in a susceptible position 𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗧 3-3+ minutes rest between WORKING sets is ideal. 2 is fine but that is the ABSOLUTE FLOOR!!! 1-2 minutes rest is fine between WARM UP sets 𝗭𝗢𝗡𝗘 𝟮 𝗖𝗔𝗥𝗗𝗜𝗢 This just means activity performed at roughly 60-70% of your estimated maximum heart rate for a sustained period of time Example = A 3-4 MPH Walk on a 10% Incline for 45 Minutes

I will decipher the schedule laid out in the original post by hitting you guys with…. The GREATEST 4x Per Week Workout Plan known to man: UPPER A Exercise 1: Seated/Flat Chest Press Machine — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 2: Wide Grip Lat Pull-Down — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 3: Seated Low to High Cable Flys — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 4: Chest Supported Machine Rows w/ Neutral Grip — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 5: Seated Machine OHP — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 6: Seated Machine or Dumbbell Curls w/ Upper Arm Support — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 7: Incline Bench Cable Tricep Push-Downs — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 8: Seated Dumbbell Hammer Curls w/ Upper Arm Support — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR LOWER A Exercise 1: Leg Extensions — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 2: Seated or Prone Leg Curls — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 3: Pendulum or Hack Squats — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 4: 45 Degree Extensions — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 5: ADduction Machine — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 6: Ab Crunch Machine — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 7: Calf Press on Leg Press — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR (Partial reps from the dorsiflexed position to the neutral foot position) UPPER B Exercise 1: Incline Machine Press — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 2: Chest Supported Machine Rows w/ Pronated Grip — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 3: Pec Fly Machine — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 4: Single Arm Lat Pull-Down — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 5: Cable or Machine Lateral Raises — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 6: Cable or Machine Preacher Curls — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 7: Cable or Machine Overhead Tricep Extensions — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 8: Seated Dumbbell Hammer Curls w/ Upper Arm Support — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR LOWER B Exercise 1: Seated Leg Curls — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 2: Leg Extensions — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 3: 45 Degree Extensions or SLDL/RDLs — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 4: Calf Press on Leg Press — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR (Partial reps from the dorsiflexed position to the neutral foot position) Exercise 5: 45 Degree Leg Press — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 6: Ab Crunch Machine — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 7: Machine Hip Thrusts — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Notes: 𝗩𝗔𝗥𝗜𝗔𝗕𝗟𝗘 𝗦𝗘𝗧𝗦 If you see an exercise with a VARIABLE set count listed (Ex: 2-3x5-10), you should do the HIGHER NUMBER in the event that you are some combination of: -Not pressed for time -Do not need to decrease your time spent during rest periods in order to fit all of the work in even if selecting the higher number If you see an exercise with a VARIABLE set count listed (Ex: 2-3x5-10), you should do the LOWER NUMBER in the event that you are some combination of: -Pressed for time -Would need to decrease time spent during rest periods in order to fit all the work in if selecting the higher number 𝗜𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗡𝗦𝗜𝗧𝗬 If you do NOT trust your ability to gauge RIR accurately, take sets to ~0 RIR/Failure to ensure you’re not sandbagging sets Should you elect to do so, be sure NOT to take any 50/50 reps (reps you’re not sure you’ll get) on exercises like Hack Squats to avoid ending up in a susceptible position 𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗧 3-3+ minutes rest between WORKING sets is ideal. 2 is fine but that is the ABSOLUTE FLOOR!!! 1-2 minutes rest is fine between WARM UP sets 𝗭𝗢𝗡𝗘 𝟮 𝗖𝗔𝗥𝗗𝗜𝗢 This just means activity performed at roughly 60-70% of your estimated maximum heart rate for a sustained period of time Example = A 3-4 MPH Walk on a 10% Incline for 45 Minutes

Dean Turner

34,648 views • 23 days ago

Training to failure isn’t needed to max gains? Some people believe that you must take every set to failure in order to maximize muscle gains, but emerging literature suggests this may not be the case A new study examined training to failure vs stopping 1 to 2 reps shy of failure & found that the participants gained the same amount of muscle mass from both training styles There are several strengths to this study. First of all, they used a unilateral design where each participant was their own control by training one leg taking each set to failure and stopping 1-2 reps shy on the other. This helps negate any genetic induced differences since each person is acting as their own control Second, they matched training volumes to the participants previous volumes. This is a HUGE strength that is often overlooked in other studies Third, they used participants that were well trained (at least 3 years resistance training experience) Fourth, they had them all eat in a slight calorie surplus This adds to a growing body of literature demonstrating that training to absolute failure isn’t needed for gains & is likely counterproductive for optimal strength gains due to excess fatigue Interestingly, each group had no difference in total reps performed. That may seem strange when one group is going to failure but the other is stopping 1-2 reps shy. This can be explained by lower inter-set fatigue in the non failure group. For example if a failure group hits failure at 10 reps in set 1, they may only get 8 on the next set, and 6 on the next set. Whereas they might have been able to do 8 reps every set if they didn’t go to all out failure. As such, if you do train to failure I recommend only going to failure on your very last set of an exercise If you want to know how to implement this sort of programming make sure you check out the Biolayne Workoit Builder to get access to all my evidence based programs to help you get strong AF & build muscle 👊

Training to failure isn’t needed to max gains? Some people believe that you must take every set to failure in order to maximize muscle gains, but emerging literature suggests this may not be the case A new study examined training to failure vs stopping 1 to 2 reps shy of failure & found that the participants gained the same amount of muscle mass from both training styles There are several strengths to this study. First of all, they used a unilateral design where each participant was their own control by training one leg taking each set to failure and stopping 1-2 reps shy on the other. This helps negate any genetic induced differences since each person is acting as their own control Second, they matched training volumes to the participants previous volumes. This is a HUGE strength that is often overlooked in other studies Third, they used participants that were well trained (at least 3 years resistance training experience) Fourth, they had them all eat in a slight calorie surplus This adds to a growing body of literature demonstrating that training to absolute failure isn’t needed for gains & is likely counterproductive for optimal strength gains due to excess fatigue Interestingly, each group had no difference in total reps performed. That may seem strange when one group is going to failure but the other is stopping 1-2 reps shy. This can be explained by lower inter-set fatigue in the non failure group. For example if a failure group hits failure at 10 reps in set 1, they may only get 8 on the next set, and 6 on the next set. Whereas they might have been able to do 8 reps every set if they didn’t go to all out failure. As such, if you do train to failure I recommend only going to failure on your very last set of an exercise If you want to know how to implement this sort of programming make sure you check out the Biolayne Workoit Builder to get access to all my evidence based programs to help you get strong AF & build muscle 👊

Layne Norton, PhD

48,374 views • 2 years ago

UPPER BODY DAY EXAMPLES If you were to run these Uppers 3-4 days apart…you’d probably make some of the BEST gains of your entire life: UPPER 1 Exercise 1: Sternal Pecs Machine Press — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 2: Wide Grip Lat Pull-Down — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 3: Seated Low to High Cable Flys Machine Press — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 4: Chest Supported Machine Rows w/ Neutral Grip — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 5: Seated Machine OHP — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 6: Seated Dumbbell Curls w/ Upper Arm Support — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 7: Single Arm Tricep Push-Downs — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 8: Seated Hammer Curls w/ Upper Arm Support — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR UPPER 2 Exercise 1: Clavicular Pecs Machine Press — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 2: Chest Supported Machine Rows w/ Pronated Grip — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 3: Sternal Pecs Machine Press — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 4: Single Arm Lat Pull-Down — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 5: Cuffed Single Arm Cable Lateral Raises — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 6: Single Arm Preacher Curls — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 7: Overhead Tricep Extensions — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 8: Seated Hammer Curls w/ Upper Arm Support — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR NOTE: If you see an exercise with a VARIABLE set count listed (Ex: 2-3x5-10), you should do the HIGHER NUMBER in the event that you are some combination of: -Not pressed for time -Training less often (Every Other or 3x Per Week) -Do not need to decrease your time spent during rest periods in order to fit all of the work in even if selecting the higher number If you see an exercise with a VARIABLE set count listed (Ex: 2-3x5-10), you should do the LOWER NUMBER in the event that you are some combination of: -Pressed for time -Training more often (4x Per Week) -Would need to decrease time spent during rest periods in order to fit all the work in if selecting the higher number

UPPER BODY DAY EXAMPLES If you were to run these Uppers 3-4 days apart…you’d probably make some of the BEST gains of your entire life: UPPER 1 Exercise 1: Sternal Pecs Machine Press — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 2: Wide Grip Lat Pull-Down — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 3: Seated Low to High Cable Flys Machine Press — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 4: Chest Supported Machine Rows w/ Neutral Grip — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 5: Seated Machine OHP — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 6: Seated Dumbbell Curls w/ Upper Arm Support — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 7: Single Arm Tricep Push-Downs — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 8: Seated Hammer Curls w/ Upper Arm Support — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR UPPER 2 Exercise 1: Clavicular Pecs Machine Press — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 2: Chest Supported Machine Rows w/ Pronated Grip — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 3: Sternal Pecs Machine Press — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 4: Single Arm Lat Pull-Down — 2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 5: Cuffed Single Arm Cable Lateral Raises — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 6: Single Arm Preacher Curls — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 7: Overhead Tricep Extensions — 2-3x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR Exercise 8: Seated Hammer Curls w/ Upper Arm Support — 1-2x5-10 @ 0-1 RIR NOTE: If you see an exercise with a VARIABLE set count listed (Ex: 2-3x5-10), you should do the HIGHER NUMBER in the event that you are some combination of: -Not pressed for time -Training less often (Every Other or 3x Per Week) -Do not need to decrease your time spent during rest periods in order to fit all of the work in even if selecting the higher number If you see an exercise with a VARIABLE set count listed (Ex: 2-3x5-10), you should do the LOWER NUMBER in the event that you are some combination of: -Pressed for time -Training more often (4x Per Week) -Would need to decrease time spent during rest periods in order to fit all the work in if selecting the higher number

Dean Turner

25,031 views • 5 months ago