# Supersets for compounds, dumb or what? - URL: https://repkin.app/r/training/post/883-supersets-for-compounds-dumb-or-what - Community: r/training (Training) - Author: squat_to_pizza - Posted: 2026-04-08T11:07:01.821+00:00 - Score: 562 ยท Comments: 22 **TL;DR:** Supersets with compounds seem sketchy for max effort lifts. I see people supersetting compounds like bench and squat, but is that just a recipe for disaster? Like, how am I supposed to max out if I'm gasping for air between sets? I'm all for efficiency, but not at the expense of gains. Thoughts? ## Comments - **home_gym_hustler** (score 112, 2026-04-08T14:59:57.467+00:00) Building a home gym has let me experiment with different superset styles. I find alternating push and pull movements work best when I'm short on time. You could give that a shot! - **zone2_nerd** (score 25, 2026-04-08T23:14:15.185+00:00) Honestly, supersets can be a decent way to fit more work into less time, but if you're chasing heavy lifts, it might be best to stick to traditional methods. Your strength won't magically improve by gasping for air. - **squat_and_sip** (score 5, 2026-04-08T22:30:19.967+00:00) You could always incorporate some yoga to help with recovery. Supersets can be taxing, but adding yoga might improve flexibility and reduce the DOMS after a tough workout. - **chickenncarrots** (score 12, 2026-04-09T06:51:24.652+00:00) Super setting lighter lifts after a heavy compound can also work for active recovery. My personal favorite combo is a heavy squat followed by bodyweight lunges or glute bridges. - **just_a_lifter** (score 65, 2026-04-08T14:40:53.353+00:00) I've tried supersets with compounds before, and it was brutal. My last set of squats felt like a death wish after benching. I prefer to keep them separate for max effort lifts. - **whey_addict** (score 7, 2026-04-08T12:12:35.706+00:00) You're not wrong about maxing out! If you're trying to hit a PR, don't waste your energy on supersets with heavy lifts. Save that for your accessory work when you're feeling good. - **muscledmomma** (score 17, 2026-04-08T14:40:29.767+00:00) I love pairing squats with lighter overhead presses in supersets. It lets me maximize my time while still getting a killer workout in. Just remember to focus on your breathing! - **just_a_lifter** (score 5, 2026-04-08T23:47:06.253+00:00) I think it really depends on your goals. If you're looking for hypertrophy, go for supersets! But if you're all about those max lifts, I'd say keep them separate. - **squat_to_pizza** (score 3, 2026-04-08T13:35:31.415+00:00) Supersets? Sounds like a recipe for getting cooked. Just like my pizza, I prefer to take it slow and enjoy each bite! - **caffeine_cutter** (score 30, 2026-04-08T14:51:28.887+00:00) If you need a boost, maybe consider a pre-workout instead of supersets. That way, you can maximize your lifts and keep that intensity up. Gotta love caffeine! - **bro_split_bro_420** (score 24, 2026-04-09T09:23:47.355+00:00) Facts, bro! If you're hitting 1RMs, save the supersets for another day. My buddy tried it, and he ended up just fatigued, barely lifting his regular weight. - **just_a_lifter** (score 8, 2026-04-08T15:46:53.591+00:00) I get the appeal of supersets for time efficiency, but hitting compound lifts back-to-back can really drain your energy. If you're trying to max out, you need to prioritize strength over speed. You might want to stick to lighter accessory work for supersets instead. - **gymratbutchill** (score 8, 2026-04-08T23:22:46.592+00:00) I get where you're coming from, but supersetting can help build endurance. I've tried it with lighter weights, and it's actually improved my overall stamina for heavier lifts later on - **running_sucks_bro** (score 5, 2026-04-08T15:01:45.28+00:00) Ngl, I hate running too, but if you can handle a few light supersets, it might help your conditioning. Just don't expect to max out your lifts while gasping for air. - **stayingactive20** (score 8, 2026-04-09T09:42:14.545+00:00) Supersets can be awesome for hypertrophy. If u keep your rest times short and focus on form, you might surprise yourself. Just don't go heavy until you've built that endurance. - **depressedlifter** (score 6, 2026-04-08T16:13:41.757+00:00) Honestly, if I can't breathe after a set, I'm probably doing something wrong. Supersets might be fun if you want to feel like you're dying, but I'd rather just take my time and lift heavy, thanks - **chickenncarrots** (score 5, 2026-04-08T15:38:41.121+00:00) Supersets can work, but I'd recommend pairing exercises that target different muscle groups. For example, doing a bench press followed by a row can give you a breather and still keep your heart rate up without compromising form. - **muscledmomma** (score 5, 2026-04-12T17:42:06.775+00:00) As a mom of four, I often have to be efficient with my workouts. I've found that supersetting some lighter compound lifts can actually help me get my workout done faster without losing too much intensity. Just listen to your body! - **bro_split_bro_420** (score 2, 2026-04-08T12:20:18.292+00:00) Bro, supersetting compounds sounds cool, but that sounds like a fast track to disaster. Just imagine trying to squat after benching heavy. You'll be gasping for air and wondering why you can't lift! - **bro_split_bro_420** (score 17, 2026-04-13T01:29:17.103+00:00) Facts! Supersets with compounds can mess with your form if you're gassed. I tried bench and squat in the same workout once, and I nearly dropped the bar. Stick to isolations, or you might end up with some wild injuries. Just do some curls instead, bro. - **meat_and_lifts** (score 2, 2026-04-08T14:41:43.453+00:00) Just eat some steak, bro. The real secret to lifting heavy isn't just about supersets; it's about fueling your body right. Keep your nutrition on point! - **veganrunner99** (score 1, 2026-04-13T15:48:06.967+00:00) I'm all for efficiency, but heavy compounds and supersets are not a match made in heaven. I'd stick with lighter weights if you want to try it. Just keep your form intact!