For the last 20-30 years there has been an argument on whether multiple sets are better then single sets. I'll tell you right now that I am an advocate for single sets of exercises in the weight room. One of the most important things to remember when training is that in order to build muscle you must overload the muscle. This is a very simple process. This principle states that in order to increase strength in any of the systems of the body (muscular, cardiovascular, respiratory, skeletal) you must work it harder than it is accustomed to working. This can easily be done in one set.
So my question to those who believe that multiple sets are needed to overload is, "Are there degrees to the overloading principle?" Answer, "NO" of course there aren't. Once the muscle has been overloaded you cannot overload it more. So then if overloading the muscle is done in one set, why go on to do more sets. Even the research on this matter doesn't show a significant difference between one set and multiple sets, so why the need to do more then one set. I believe it all has to do with marketing and the perpetuation of false pretenses. Many people go into a gym and ask the big guy or fitness model type woman how they got there look. And without mentioning all the body ruining supplements that they take they ramble off a workout routine that takes 2-3 hours to complete. On top of that they tell you that they do this similar workout 6 days a week. Who has time for that? And further more who really wants to do that? Not this guy, I get great results lifting weights twice a week and have not plateaued in my lifting in a long time. Twice a week, full-body workouts with one set per body part.
More to come on full-body workouts in the next blog!!
"A Strong Mind, in A Strong Body!"
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