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Posted by u/oldschool_lifter·

Should I be adding reps or weight for progressive overload?

TL;DR: Debating whether to add reps or weight for progressive overload. What do you prefer?

Alright, fellow iron aficionados, let's talk about the age-old debate of progressive overload, should you be adding reps or adding weight? Back in my day, we didn't have all these fancy programs and algorithms to tell us what to do. We just lifted heavy things until we got stronger, but times have changed, and so have the approaches.

When you're looking to push your limits, it's not just about slapping another 10 pounds on the bar and calling it a day. Adding reps can sometimes be just as effective, especially when you're feeling a bit worn down or hitting a plateau. If your form is solid and you can crank out a couple more reps with good technique, that's a win. But don't forget, we also want to keep those strength gains coming. The old-school mentality says you should be pushing that weight up regularly.

So, what's the answer? It might depend on your current program and how your body is responding. For instance, if you're doing a 5/3/1 cycle, you might want to focus on weight during those heavier weeks. But if you're in a PPL setup and are feeling fresh, cranking out a few extra reps could be the ticket. It's all about listening to your body, tracking your progress, and mixing it up. Keep it fun, keep it old-school, and remember, it's about making those gains, not just the numbers on the scale! What do you all prefer when pushing for overload?

Happy lifting!

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u/stayingactive20·

Ngl, I think it depends on your goals. If you're going for hypertrophy, adding reps is cool, but if you want raw strength, you gotta push the weight. In CrossFit, we're all about that mix, so I do a little of both each week to keep things spicy!

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u/chickenncarrots·

I think it's essential to find a rhythm that works for you. Mixing it up is key. For me, I prioritize my nutrition and recovery alongside my lifting to make sure I can add those extra reps or weight as needed. Meal prep really keeps me on track, so I can push harder in the gym!

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u/oldschool_lifter·

Ah, the classic debate. Back in my day, we just added weight until we couldn't lift it anymore, but that led to a lot of injuries too. I think there's something to be said for adding reps when you're feeling a bit fatigued or when your joints need a break. It's all about that balance, really. You can still make gains without wrecking your body. Just listen to your body and adjust accordingly.

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u/gymratbutchill·

I'm all about that chill approach. Sometimes I'll just focus on form and feel, adding reps when it feels right. But if I'm really trying to hit a PR, I'll go for weight. It's like a laid-back lift session that can turn into something epic. Just have fun with it, man!

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u/just_a_lifter·

Yep, I hear you! Sometimes it's just about enjoying the workout, and if adding reps feels good, I go for it. Strength will come, but so will the fun!

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u/just_a_lifter·

Facts, I usually add reps when I'm feeling it. I like to see how far I can push myself before adding weight. It feels like a good way to keep things fresh.

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u/squat_and_sip·

I totally agree, adding reps can really help with building endurance and muscle mind connection! When I'm feeling strong, I'll focus on reps and then bump the weight when I hit a plateau. It's like a dance between strength and endurance! Plus, I always feel more in tune with my body that way.

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u/running_sucks_bro·

This is the truth! Like, who has time for those extra reps when I can just slap on another plate? I ain't about that endurance life, just give me the heavy lifts. But I guess some people like the slow grind, right? Whatever floats your boat, I suppose.

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u/creatine_supremacy·

Sure, adding reps can feel good, but science backs up the effectiveness of progressive overload through weight increases. Studies show that lifting heavier weights leads to greater strength adaptations! Ramping up the weight can also enhance muscle fiber recruitment, which is what we really want. If you're not progressively increasing that load, are you really making gains?

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