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Influence of Varying Proximity-to-Failure on Muscular Adaptations and Repetitions-in-Reserve Estimation Accuracy in Resistance-Trained Individuals

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Paper Summary

Paperzilla title
Lifting Weights Near Failure Doesn't Make Much Difference (If You Already Lift a Lot)

This study on resistance-trained individuals found no significant difference in muscle growth or strength gains between varying proximity to failure (RIR1-4) and consistently training close to failure (RIR1). However, varying proximity to failure did result in lower perceived exertion.

Explain Like I'm Five

Lifting weights until you're almost too tired to do another rep doesn't give better results if you already lift weights regularly. It might make your workouts less tiring at first.

Possible Conflicts of Interest

One author (BJS) is on the scientific advisory board for Tonal Corporation, a fitness equipment manufacturer.

Identified Limitations

Limited generalizability
The study focused on resistance-trained individuals, so the findings might not apply to untrained individuals.
Small sample size
With around 30 participants completing the study, the statistical power might not be sufficient to detect small but meaningful differences.
Partly supervised training
While participants recorded their training, the lack of full supervision might introduce variability and inaccuracies in reported repetitions and RIR estimations.
Short duration
The 10-week intervention period might be too short to observe significant differences in muscle growth or strength adaptations, especially in experienced lifters.

Rating Explanation

The study employs a reasonable methodology and addresses a relevant question, but the small sample size, limited generalizability to trained individuals, and partly supervised nature of the training limit its impact. The disclosed conflict of interest with one author is noted but doesn't seem to directly compromise the study's integrity.

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File Information

Original Title: Influence of Varying Proximity-to-Failure on Muscular Adaptations and Repetitions-in-Reserve Estimation Accuracy in Resistance-Trained Individuals
Uploaded: September 12, 2025 at 09:12 AM
Privacy: Public