Weightlifting Reps: How Many Should You Do?

Figuring out how many reps you need to do to get the results you want is something you have to learn. If you’re looking to become a bodybuilder and build big muscles, then you’ll be looking to do a higher amount of weight and lower reps. If you’re looking to develop a slimmer body type with a slimmer figure, then you want to work with lower weights and higher reps.

The following are suggestions for repetitions for different types of results.

high weights: in this category it is a lot of weight. You want to make sure that you can perform at least 6 to 12 repetitions of this weight. Remember that greater weight carries a greater chance of injury. Only lift weights if you have previous experience lifting weights or training for a sporting event.

moderate weights: In this category, you’ll be looking to do at least 12 reps for your given weight. This weight class is much less prone to injury risk and gives you a good balance between getting stronger and building muscular endurance.

low weights: If you’re an older adult, you want to avoid any chance of injury, so use the lightest weight that allows you to do at least 10 to 15 reps. If you are in this category, you can even do a much lower weight.

Keep in mind that the results of these exercises are highly dependent on your genetic makeup. Some of us have body types that will allow us to look like Arnold with just a little exercise. Others have body types where no matter how much they train, they will always look slim. Adjust your workout for your body type.

If you’re looking to increase your endurance, you want to make sure you’re doing at least 12 reps. If you want to build bigger muscles, you want to make sure you’re doing 6-12 reps while increasing the number of sets to 3-6. You want to do fewer reps and more weight. No matter what level you choose, remember to always lift with a partner. A lifting partner will greatly reduce the risk of injury.