Reps in Reserve (RIR) is a training method where you stop your exercise set a few repetitions before reaching complete muscle failure. Instead of pushing yourself to the absolute limit every time, you leave some energy in the tank. This approach can make training more enjoyable in several ways.
First, using reps in reserve helps reduce the physical and mental fatigue that often comes with training to failure. When you stop before total exhaustion, workouts feel less overwhelming and more manageable. This can keep motivation higher because you avoid the dread of extremely tough sessions. It also lowers the risk of injury and burnout, which means you can train more consistently over time.
Second, reps in reserve allow for better control over your training intensity. You can adjust how hard you push yourself based on how you feel that day, making workouts feel less like a punishment and more like a challenge you can handle. This flexibility makes training more fun because it respects your body’s limits and energy levels.
Third, by not always going to failure, you can maintain better form and technique throughout your exercises. This not only improves safety but also helps you see progress more clearly, which is rewarding and encouraging.
Finally, reps in reserve can make training more social and interactive. Since you’re not completely wiped out after every set, you have more energy to engage with training partners, share tips, and enjoy the workout environment.
Sources
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Army_Basic_Training
https://www.ausa.org/articles/special-training-army-prepares-next-generation-elite-warriors
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nilfqkEqy3w
https://smart.dhgate.com/your-complete-guide-to-joining-the-military-reserves-steps-benefits-and-what-to-expect/
