Reps in Reserve (RIR) is a training concept where a person stops an exercise before reaching complete muscle failure, leaving a few repetitions “in reserve.” This approach is often used to manage fatigue and reduce injury risk during strength training. For people with chronic conditions, the safety of using RIR depends on the specific health issues they face and how their bodies respond to exercise.
People with chronic conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, or respiratory illnesses often have different exercise tolerances and risks compared to healthy individuals. Using RIR can be safer for them because it avoids pushing muscles to total exhaustion, which might otherwise increase the risk of injury, excessive fatigue, or exacerbation of symptoms. By stopping short of failure, individuals can maintain better control over their movements and reduce strain on joints and cardiovascular systems.
However, the safety of RIR for people with chronic conditions also depends on proper guidance and individualized adjustments. It is important for these individuals to consult healthcare providers or physical therapists before starting or modifying exercise routines. Professionals can help determine appropriate intensity levels, monitor responses, and ensure exercises are performed with correct form. This personalized approach helps prevent overexertion and supports gradual improvements in strength and endurance.
In addition, people with chronic conditions should pay attention to their body’s signals during exercise. If they experience unusual pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, or other concerning symptoms, they should stop exercising and seek medical advice. Using RIR allows for flexibility to adjust effort based on daily health status, which is particularly valuable for managing fluctuating symptoms common in chronic illnesses.
Overall, Reps in Reserve can be a safe and effective training method for people with chronic conditions when used thoughtfully and under professional supervision. It helps balance the benefits of strength training with the need to minimize risks associated with overexertion.
Sources
https://www.pahouse.com/CentralPADelegation/
https://health.mit.edu/services/occupational-health
https://nam.edu/our-work/programs/clinician-resilience-and-well-being/
https://app.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=246
https://www.fda.gov/safety/medical-product-safety-information/medwatch-forms-fda-safety-reporting
https://healthy.arkansas.gov
