Rep range confusion.... is this normal?

[DanielBishop]

Whenever I post my routine, I'm not sure what to post when it comes to my rep range.... because for me, it's anywhere between 3-12.

If we're talking about bench press, for example.... on my first set I might be able to get to 7 or 8 at a certain weight. I then rest for a minute or two, but on my second set with the same weight, I usually can't do more than 5 or 6. Third set, same weight, 3 or 4.

Is this normal to drop down so drastically between sets? I take every set to failure, by the way....

But I see guys who are using the same weight every set, and really seem to be pushing themselves.... but they're cranking out 8 reps for each and every set. How do they do that?

I always wondered about it and thought maybe I should ask if it's normal. Because the range is quite vast with the same weight. On the first set I could be reaching 10, then by the third set I can't get my 4th rep out.

Would I benefit from doing strip sets? And reducing the weight with each set to keep my reps within a certain range?

Please advise. Thanks.

 

[needsize]

When you are training to failure then of course you can't maintain the same reps and weight for each sets, they will drop.

I am partial to the five sets of five routine myself, in which you are lifting the same weight for 5x5, this routine works for me for a number of reasons. First, only the last set should really be to failure so there is not excuse for shitty form, it's awesome for building bulk and tons of strength . And if I time it right, I can continue to add 5-10lbs to the bar every week for 8-10 weeks, adds up to a lot by the end. The key is to not add any weight untill you can get all 5 sets on the same weight.

 

[diamonddiceclay]

12-15 reps is what I've been advised

 

[Scotsman]

That is normal for some it just depends on the person. Some people have more muscular endurance and can maintain strength throughout a workout. Other are more maximal performance lifters and can't do the high rep thing. The idea is to find out which way works best for your body and to adapt to that method for training.

 

[Ingram]

If we're talking about bench press, for example.... on my first set I might be able to get to 7 or 8 at a certain weight. I then rest for a minute or two, but on my second set with the same weight, I usually can't do more than 5 or 6. Third set, same weight, 3 or 4.

Would I benefit from doing strip sets? And reducing the weight with each set to keep my reps within a certain range?

I think the initial weight that you are using is too much for you. On bench start out with a weight that you think you could do 15-18 times (KEEP IN MIND I AM NOT SAYING TO DO THIS MANY REPS)

1st set – 10-12 reps
2nd set – 8-10 reps with 10% more weight
3rd set – 8 reps with 5-10% more weight (really try for at least 8)
4th set – 8-10 with lowered weight

Over time you can up the weight and lower the reps, it just really sounds like you are trying to lift too much.

 

[DanielBishop]

Interesting.

Thanks, Ingram.... I shall consider it.