Thread: density

It depends on your goals.

1-5 reps: 2-5 min rest
6-12: 1,5-2,5 min rest
13+: 1 min rest

I think that's the basic sketch for rest. There are loads of exceptions of course, like dropsets, supersets, and that density training.

I think that you should normally just rest as long as it takes for you to recover from the set, but no longer than that.

I generally do - except when strength training that I've integrated into my workouts. 2-4 reps are a "very loose" 3 minutes for me. More like 4-5 minutes.

I've actually, however, added time between sets (across the line) to Cowpimp's Undulating Periodization concept though. However, at the end of some workouts, I throw in a "superset bonanza". 4-6 single set exercises done rapidly, but clean, with no rest between.

The key, as Witchbade mentioned, is decent enough recovery time to do clean work. I feel if you're not being "strict" with form throughout movement ranges - you're cheating yourself. Too many dynamics, variables.

My style though is to work as fast and intensely as possible w/ plenty of rest between workouts.

density comes from working out over a period of time, you obviously have greater density if youve been working out for longer than another person(assuming training is identical and intensity)

Originally Posted by Richie1888

was just thinking about this after i read cowpimps post

do u guys always aim to take the least amount of rest between sets ?

I try to keep my rest intervals consistent. When going really heavy I rest longer. When I go light, I keep the rest minimal.

Originally Posted by CowPimp

I try to keep my rest intervals consistent. When going really heavy I rest longer. When I go light, I keep the rest minimal.

is it bennificial though to always aim for the shortest rest period which still allows for a perfect set to be completed?

Originally Posted by Richie1888

is it bennificial though to always aim for the shortest rest period which still allows for a perfect set to be completed?

Not necessarily. You don't always have to push yourself as hard as you can, i.e. periodization. Resting too long is just a waste of time.