Question regarding reps/set

[bignateyk]

In general, I do every set until failure. I pick a weight that I will fail after about 8 reps. This means that I usually have to decrease the weight I use on my second and third sets. For example, right now for dumbell press I do:

85 x 8
75 x 9
70 x 7

My question is: Would I be better off not working to failure on the first set so that I can stay at the same weight on my second and third sets?

For example:

80 x 8
80 x 8
80 x 7 (to failure)

 

[onlyCOpunk]

The latter. Complete the first two sets, then do your best on the third. If you can make it past your goal increase the weight next time. If you can't keep working at it. You could also try pyramid like 80, 90, 80, or 80, 90, 90.

 

[Cerpin Taxt]

I'll tell you what I do. I do 3 sets to failure in each set within 6 reps, but at LEAST 4 reps. I'm able to maintain the same weight through all 3 sets and still accomplish 3 sets to failure within 6 reps. The only difference is that I may fail on rep number 6 in the first set, but I may fail on rep number 5 in the latter sets. I'm on a bulking phase right now, also.

When I start cutting, I'll do 3 sets to failure in like 12 reps, while supersetting similarly with some other lift.

 

[SociallyChallenged]

Originally posted by: Cerpin Taxt
I'll tell you what I do. I do 3 sets to failure in each set within 6 reps, but at LEAST 4 reps. I'm able to maintain the same weight through all 3 sets and still accomplish 3 sets to failure within 6 reps. The only difference is that I may fail on rep number 6 in the first set, but I may fail on rep number 5 in the latter sets. I'm on a bulking phase right now, also.

When I start cutting, I'll do 3 sets to failure in like 12 reps, while supersetting similarly with some other lift.

I do the exact same thing, but the OP needs to keep in mind that this is a bulking way of working out. OP, can you tell us what your goals are? To be honest, I wouldn't decrease my weight, no matter what. If you can do 85lbs 8 times the first time, you should take a 2-3 minute break between sets and try to continue using the 85. I would say (if you wanted to keep your workout), I'd change it to a range of 6-8 and keep it at 85. If you can do 9 at any point, increase the weight

 

[mjh]

Originally posted by: onlyCOpunk
The latter. Complete the first two sets, then do your best on the third. If you can make it past your goal increase the weight next time. If you can't keep working at it. You could also try pyramid like 80, 90, 80, or 80, 90, 90.

That is also the way I was taught how to lift weights.

 

[Slufa111]

a 5x5 work out would be better

 

[tjaisv]

After u warm up with a couple sets of 8-10 reps, do a couple sets of 4-6 reps of heaviest weight. Progress with heavier weight, but keep your reps the same.

This is the best way to shock the muscle into growing more.

 

[onlyCOpunk]

Originally posted by: mjh

Originally posted by: onlyCOpunk
The latter. Complete the first two sets, then do your best on the third. If you can make it past your goal increase the weight next time. If you can't keep working at it. You could also try pyramid like 80, 90, 80, or 80, 90, 90.

That is also the way I was taught how to lift weights.

It's how I learned too. It's pretty elementary and there are certainly heaps of other ways, but it works for me.