Hi, X - alas, I'm feeling dumber (am off today preparing for a vacay trip to DC tomorrow), so I'm not sure if I'll make sense with this.
From what I've seen and read, split-set training is implemented when the exerciser has serious true strength and mass-building goals, much like a body-builder's, whereas total-body strength-training sessions are oriented more toward overall fitness. Split-set routines are designed to seriously blast specific, limited muscle groups.
IMHO, for the novice weight-lifter, it is usually better (and I use the word USUALLY very deliberately; nothing is absolute in fitness training), total-body sessions are what should be utilized to start off with, and get an idea for what weight-lifting feels like for all the muscles. Then, when the exerciser gets more skilled, more psychologically and physically comfortable, and stronger via total-body training, s/he can segue into split-sets for serious mass- and strength-building goals.
What I like about the Pyramids as a bridge between total-body weight-lifting workous (such as MIS, MM, ME, SS/PP and Power Hour) is that the split is only twofold, i.e. upper body and lower body. Then, as you've gotten comfortable with really banging the upper and the lower body in separate sessions, you can go on to even more intensified, focused training for even fewer muscle groups, i.e. chest / tris, shoulders/back/bis, legs, etc.
This is strictly my own personal opinion. I'm sure other people will have differing opinions on this subject.
A-Jock
