Do you use a stopwatch when you lift?

**usualsuspect** · 02-06-2003, 02:16 PM

I could not imagine going to the gym without my stopwatch or my PWO drink. Timing rest periods is crucial for a good workout...

***Pheedno*** · 02-06-2003, 02:21 PM

I did until I dropped a plate on it. Actually thanks for reminding me to stop by Academy after work

**Rich8888** · 02-06-2003, 02:21 PM

how long do you rest in between sets?

***Pheedno*** · 02-06-2003, 02:25 PM

45 seconds for sets with reps 8 and over

120 seconds for sets with reps 7 and under

**usualsuspect** · 02-06-2003, 04:28 PM

Originally posted by Rich8888
how long do you rest in between sets?

It varies with the exercise and the # of sets...usually for larger compound exercises such as squats, deadlifts, and bench I do 6 sets with a 180 sec. rest in between. For smaller body parts such as arms and calves, I try to take longer then a minute rest.

My reps are within the 6 to 10 range, using heavy weight and good form. I found through personal trial and error that focusing on getting high quality reps is more effective then getting caught up in the rep pyramids. The only time I'll increase the weight is when I can bang out 12 reps w/ scrict form, thus conquering the weight.

***BIG TEXAN*** · 02-07-2003, 11:26 AM

Originally posted by Pheedno
I did until I dropped a plate on it. Actually thanks for reminding me to stop by Academy after work

That's exactly what I did. Of course I then stepped on it as I was trying to pick it up. Now I just stare at the clock on the wall!

**Sigmund Froid** · 02-10-2003, 04:13 PM

The magic time under stress for hypertrophy is 60 seconds.

-SF

**Aguro** · 02-21-2003, 12:46 PM

The magic time under stress for hypertrophy is 60 seconds.

You mean that every pause shouldnt be longer then 60 sec for muscle mass? My cardio suck after 1 set, i am panting like a dog, i wait until i catch my breath back and feel that my muscle are ready to perform another set something it can go for 30 sec to 3 mins.. What do you think?

**Assassinator** · 02-24-2003, 12:59 AM

Only occasionally I do, to see how long i am resting, I lock at my watch, I dont use a stopwatch.
But when i finish 11 sets of chest, and 8 of biceps , like yesterday in 60 mins, then i know I did well

and didnt rest to long. (i had a w/o partner too)

Usually when im doing abs, I make sure i waste no longer than 50 seconds between sets.

**Warrior** · 02-24-2003, 01:12 AM

Originally posted by Aguro
The magic time under stress for hypertrophy is 60 seconds.

You mean that every pause shouldnt be longer then 60 sec for muscle mass? My cardio suck after 1 set, i am panting like a dog, i wait until i catch my breath back and feel that my muscle are ready to perform another set something it can go for 30 sec to 3 mins.. What do you think?

For training for size, yes. Limited rest intervals and advanced principles like drop sets and supersets to toally fatigue the muscle and burn all atp/cp stores for a greater hypertrophy response. With hypertrophy training you do not allow full recovery - as opposed to strength training. Strength training with long RI's will only take you so far in size gains...

If you have a hard time with endurance, this will certainly limit your progress. You should invest some gym time in endurance training and increasing your cardio capacity. Bodybuilders must have endurance.

BTW - I usually use the clock on the wall.

**David B.** · 02-24-2003, 01:41 AM

I use my wristwatch. It has a rotating bezel that allows me to set rest time intervals.

--dnb

**solidj55** · 03-22-2003, 04:41 PM

I use the timer on my watch.

**Lostsoul** · 03-22-2003, 10:02 PM

No, my rest time is based on how long it takes me to do the set, so set lasts for 30 secs, i get 30 secs rest, but i never have more than 60 seconds rest...