2 vs 3 sets at the gym?

lisanowacki

Last few times I have met with trainers at the gym, they have me complete 2 sets compared to 3 that I used to do.

Will completing 3 sets provide any more benefit compared to 2? I do make the 2 sets tough so it's not like I am completing 2 easy sets. I do heavy weights (thanks to raynes and nebb, lol!)

Also, when I am not hungry, should I be eating to make sure I get the adequate calorie intake? Sometimes I am just not hungry, like now, but feel like if I don;t eat, I might harm my metabolism.

Thanks for your help!

Nebb

I think if you arent hungry, dont force a meal down your throat but have a small snack - eat some fruit, cottage cheese, nuts, or somethig to atleast boost your calories and keep you full for longer. (saying that really makes me want almonds for some reason).

I have always done at minimum 3 sets of anywhere from 8-12 reps depending on the weight I am doing. I dont know why you would only do 2 unless the weight was really heavy.

raynes

Well, the Stage of NROL4W that I'm in right now only has me doing 2 sets of 10 reps and believe me, but the end of the second set, I'm dying.

I read a really good article about how to build a workout program, but now I can't find it.  Boo.  It talked about rest and number of sets for optimal muscle building.  I'll see if I can find it.

Oh and ditto Nebb on the food stuff.  If you're truely not hungry, just eat a bit to keep the metabolism going!

raynes

K, I lied, I found the article.  I don't think it talks too much about number of sets though.
Part 1
Part 2

PaigeMcC

You ladies are a wealth of information.  Instead of doing work I've just spent the last few minutes reading those articles.  I'm intrigued.  Off to find more!

lisanowacki

The ladies...what excellent articles Raynes!!! I just love how supportive everyone is.

tvroybal

ditto raynes, two sets at a high weight and I'm dripping with sweat, literally.  I do however add an additional set at lower weight of my first exercise for a warm up.