The Importance of Training Close to Muscular Failure: Part 2 of Maximizing Workout Intensity

In our previous blog post, we explored the power of workout intensity and why progressive overload should be your main priority. Now, let’s take it a step further by diving into one of the most critical aspects of effective strength training: training close to muscular failure. At Decater Performance and Fitness, we believe that this approach is key to optimizing your fat loss and strength gains.

Why Training Close to Muscular Failure Matters

Muscular failure occurs when you can no longer complete a repetition with proper form due to fatigue. Training close to failure is crucial because it ensures that your muscles are being pushed to their limits, stimulating the growth and strength adaptations necessary to reach your fitness goals.

Research has shown that lifting weights to or near failure recruits more muscle fibers, leading to greater hypertrophy (muscle growth) and strength gains. A study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology found that sets performed to failure were more effective at increasing muscle strength and size than those that were not​. This approach is particularly beneficial for those looking to maximize fat loss and muscle definition.

Using "Reps in Reserve" (RIR) to Gauge Intensity

One effective strategy we use at Decater Performance and Fitness to ensure clients are training close to failure without overtraining is the "Reps in Reserve" (RIR) method. RIR is a measure of how many more reps you could perform before reaching failure.

• 1-3 Reps in Reserve: For most exercises, we recommend leaving 1-3 reps in reserve. This means you’re pushing yourself close enough to failure to stimulate progress, without completely exhausting your muscles, which can lead to overtraining or injury.
• Why RIR Works: By consistently training with 1-3 reps in reserve, you’re able to maintain high levels of intensity across your workouts while allowing for sufficient recovery. This balance is key for sustainable progress, especially in a structured program aimed at fat loss and strength building.

How to Assess RIR: The AMRAP Set

To effectively use the RIR strategy, it’s important to periodically assess your true strength level. One way to do this is with an "As Many Reps As Possible" (AMRAP) set.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Select Your Weight: Use the weight you typically use for a given exercise. For example, if your program calls for 10 reps, choose the weight you would normally use to complete those 10 reps.
2. Perform an AMRAP Set: Instead of stopping at 10 reps, continue performing reps until you can no longer do so with proper form. This will give you an indication of your true RIR.
3. Evaluate Your Results:

• If you can only perform 11-13 reps, you’re right where you need to be.
• If you can perform 15 or more reps, it’s a sign that you could benefit from increasing the weight. This adjustment ensures that you’re training close enough to failure to continue making progress.
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Conclusion: Make Training to Failure Part of Your Routine



Training close to muscular failure using the RIR method is a powerful way to enhance your workout intensity and ensure you’re getting the most out of every session. By regularly assessing your RIR and adjusting your weights accordingly, you’ll be better equipped to avoid plateaus and continue making strides in your fat loss and strength training journey.

At Decater Performance and Fitness, we’re committed to helping you achieve your fitness goals with personalized coaching that emphasizes smart, effective training strategies. Whether you’re in Issaquah, Snoqualmie, Sammamish, or the surrounding areas, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Ready to take your training to the next level? Join us today and let’s get started!