To increase the weight or not?

[Johnny Sinn]

When doing something like 3 sets of 8 for example do you guys increase the weight each set so the last set is a working set or do you use the same weight with a timed break until you can successfully get all three sets of 8 reps.

I may have asked this in the past so I apologize.

[polly56]

If you asked it in the past then you know your going to get mixed answers, some guys will increase the weight each set and some will stick with the same while others will make sure that their last rep is a failure.

If i were you what i would do is instead of progressively adding weight each set I'd add it in each week and raise the weight by 5%. I've tried it all but This method has been very successful for me

[Johnny Sinn]

For the past few years I've been doing a lot of CBS training and ramping up for one big set. A lot of heavy work. But lately I've been feeling really Shitty. Weights are going down. Every set feels like I'm not warmed up no matter what I do. Time for a change. Thanks for the input.

[quarry206]

it all depends on your goals, and what exercise in question..

I think the reason you are getting mixed answers or maybe no answers is because a lot of it is based on goals and what type of exercise the person is performing. . .

[Johnny Sinn]

Would like to shed some bf and add some size. Im also feeling really burned out so I took the last week off. Getting stronger isnt all that of importance right now. Hoping to do a recomp is the overrall goal

[quarry206]

well here is the thing, if you are shredding weight too fast while also trying to bulk you will burn out alot..

do 3 sets of 8 at a weight 65-75 percent of your max on bench, and take a 90 second breaks and keep it going. 3 to 4 sets with 90-120 second breaks.. if you get 9 the first and only 6 the last you are still in the area for hypertrophy and also keeping your HR up.

on big movements like squat, bench, deadlift its easy to pick a 65-75 percent range.. but on things like curls you will have to not only guess a little on a proper weight but also keep a long to help you chart what your body is doing and how you need to adjust.

there are alot of general rules people can help you with. but as far as a full body workout its hard to do anything but little hints here and there.. everybodies body is alittle different.

[Johnny Sinn]

I like how my workouts are designed. Just needed a change in things. The powerlifting style has me burned out. Hoping my body responds to some reps. It's been a long time. Going to jump on a test cycle too. That should help me through this plateau too