How Do I Know How Much Weight To Lift At The Gym?

How do I know how much weight to lift at the gym?

Choosing the right weight to use during your weights session can be tricky, especially with new programs or if you're new to training.

A good basic rule of thumb is to pick a weight that allows you to perform the desired number of repetitions within the Repetition range you've been prescribed.

For example:

A. Bench press x 6-8 reps: 4 Sets.

You would pick a weight that allows you to perform 6, 7, or 8 repetitions.

If you only get 5 reps, it's too heavy, if you get 9, it's too light for that particular exercise.

A good way to determine your starting weight is to begin with a light weight and gradually increase it until you feel the right level of challenge.

Most importantly - write down the weight you lifted and how many repetitions you did.

You now have a benchmark from which to work.

This motivates you for the next workout as you can do more reps with the same weight or move up a weight and try the same reps.

Both of these approaches result in increased strength and fitness so don't stress over which one is perfect.

You don't want to be spinning your wheels by lifting the same weights every week.

Weight training is a mixture of art and science.

As you get more experienced you'll get better at picking the weights to achieve your goal.

Any questions?