So many people wonder about this, and there are just about as many answers as there are people asking. Depending on what trainer you talk to, you will get a different theory, and everyone thinks they have the answer.
So how do you know who you can trust? Even with the best intentions, many people are wrong about their theories. I’ll just tell you the facts, so you can decide for yourself.
Different rep schemes concentrate on different parts within the muscle structure, and different muscle types. To keep it simple, let’s say there are basically two different types of muscle fibers, fast and slow twitch. We will also say there are three different types of rep schemes.
1. Low reps (3-5), very heavy weight (88-93% of 1RM)
2. Medium reps (6-8), moderate weight (84-88% or 1RM)
3. Many Reps (15-25), light weight (60-70% of 1RM)
#1 is for gaining power. It should be noted that doing this type of rep scheme is intended to build strength, not size. This is how a person can be small but much stronger than someone who has 50 pounds more muscle mass. Generally a muscle needs at least 36 seconds of continuous tension to stimulate the need for growth. Since the weight is so heavy, these reps should be done quickly and explosively without losing form, although the move will actually be quite slow.
The second reps scheme from above, 6-8 at 84-88% of 1RM, is the best rep scheme to build mass while also making gains in strength. You would lift the weight a little slower than with the low rep scheme. You would lower the weight in 4 seconds, and lift it in 2 seconds. This scheme of performing a rep in six seconds would pass the 36 second test and if you are using enough weight, which 84-88% of your 1 rep max would be, you will be stimulating muscle growth and strength. This rep scheme mostly recruits fast twitch fibers.
The high reps scheme of 15-25 at 60-70% of 1RM will recruit slow twitch muscle fiber almost exclusively. This type of rep scheme will increase endurance and increase overall aerobic fitness. This rep scheme is also much easier to recover from. One reason this type of rep scheme increases aerobic activity is because your body has produced so much lactic acid that you will fail at the end of a set because of cardiovascular fatigue and not muscular fatigue.
What’s best? It depends on what you want. There are two types of muscle fiber, Type I and Type II. They are also referred to as Slow Twitch and Fast Twitch. These muscle fibers usually are found in the bigger muscles like the pecs, biceps, and quads and are made for quick power. Most people focus all of their attention on the fast twitch muscles, as they have more potential for growth than slow twitch fibers. Just remember, your body adapts to your workouts in two to four weeks, so you need to change your rep scheme every few weeks to keep introducing new stimuli to your body. Also, changing up your workouts will eliminate any change of a plateau. Also, be sure to use proper form, and when you can’t lift the weight for one more rep, the set is over.
It is imperative that you start your weight training program with a well thought out plan. You need to use different rep schemes and exercises to always keep your body guessing and wanting more.
Do you have a workout plan that will really help you gain muscle fast? If you don’t, then act now to download Klint Newton’s free 7 Part Muscle Building Guide and get ready to build some serious muscle.
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