A question about heavier wt/muscle failure

[Mic]

This question was posted on another forum but I thought I would get your opinion. Cathe, if a person could lift a heavier weight but not complete all of the reps in an exercise should they do that and finish with a lighter weight, or should they use the lighter weight and be able to complete all the reps in the exercise? Just wanted to get your opinion.

 

[clareMc]

I'd go for option A. It's a greater challenge to the muscles. You would be pushing towards conquering that higher weight eventually and completing all the reps eventually, and finishing all the reps easily with the lighter weight does not lead to muscle failure. On S&H overhead triceps extension, Cathe drops from 20 pounds to 15 mid-set and finishes out at the lower weight.

Clare

 

[Levi]

Or, should a person just do as many as she can with the heaviest weight manageable and not worry about finishing all the reps, matching the rep speed, etc., but only work towards failure?

Would your recommendation change depending on whether a person is lifting for endurance or strength?

Thanks for your time!

 

[clareMc]

But regardless of whther you lift for endurance or strength, don't you wish to gradually increase your weights? And even if you don't intend to, there will come a time when the current weight, whether used for strength or endurance, no longer challenges.....

Clare

 

[Mic]

All very good points, what would you say Cathe?