Help with low rep training

[rovster]

Whenever I train with low reps I feel like I dont get a good workout. Also, I tend to give out pretty quick--I'll do like 3-4 good reps, struggle on the next and then BAM, I'll COMPLETELY give out on the next. Is it normal for you to give out so quickly (my muscles just "die" all of a sudden, even though I push)? I don't workout with a spotter so I don't do forced reps. Any comments?

Also, is low rep training good for arm exercises? TIA!

[Todd]

Well, if your goal is to gain muscle mass, I would let up on the weight a little so you can reach muscle failure at 6-8 reps. This rep range seems to produce the best results for MOST people, because it allows you to use heavy weight, while still getting in some quality reps (enough to make you grow). Rep ranges from 1-5 usually are for strength/power training, where using near maximum to maximum weights is the goal, whereas, reps to produce more mass is usually a little higher. Reduce your weight a little and watch yourself grow!

And yah, without a spotter I would definitely limit yourself to working to just before failure on certain exercises (like bench press etc, where a spotter is crucial if you plan to hit failure on your sets).

-Todd

For more fitness tips, advice and information, feel free to visit my personal training website @ http://members.shaw.ca/muscleman/

[Fudomyo]

CREATINE. You need more. I'd even say you are low.

Try a weight you can do 6 at on the first rep. Then you should be able to get 6, 5, 4. Or 6, 4, 2 without much creatine.

You will still grow pretty well, even on your set of 1. Heavy workouts "feel" totally different.

Fudo

[Steve]

I agree with Todd, if you wanna gain mass, let up on the weight a little and go for the 6-8 rep range. If you fail at 4 reps, obviously the weight is too heavy.


Steve

[rovster]

Thanks for the replies. I was a little concerned because if I drop the weight I can do so many more reps. However, when I try real heavy weight, I seem to be on pace and then I just collapse. I seem to be lacking that slow down and struggle through the next 3 reps like I do when I go for 10. I just wanted to know if this was normal or if I'm wierd and my low rep training is counterproductive sif I'm doing it wrong.