Reps in reserve is a simple idea that can be very useful for people who have limited mobility. It means leaving a few reps undone at the end of each set, so you don’t push your muscles to total failure. For example, if you can do 10 reps with a certain weight, you might stop at 8. This way, you still challenge your muscles but avoid overdoing it.
For people with limited mobility, this approach can make workouts safer and more comfortable. It helps prevent strain on joints and muscles that might already be weak or recovering from injury. By not going to the very edge of what your body can do, you reduce the risk of pain or setbacks. This is especially important if you have conditions like arthritis, past injuries, or if you are just starting to get active again.
Reps in reserve also lets you focus on form and control. When you’re not pushing for the last possible rep, you can pay more attention to how your body moves. This can help you build strength gradually without putting extra stress on your joints. It also makes it easier to stick with your routine, since you’re less likely to feel sore or discouraged after each session.
Another benefit is that reps in reserve can help you track progress. If you start with a weight that feels challenging but manageable, and you leave a few reps in reserve, you can slowly increase the weight or reps over time. This steady approach is often better for people with limited mobility, because it gives your body time to adapt and get stronger at its own pace.
You don’t have to guess how many reps to leave in reserve. A good rule is to stop when you feel like you could do 1 or 2 more reps with good form. This way, you’re still working your muscles but not pushing too hard. It’s a flexible method that can be adjusted based on how you feel each day, which is helpful if your mobility or energy levels change.
https://www.menshealth.com/fitness/a69206362/guide-to-rest-between-sets/
https://www.runnersworld.com/training/a69441513/high-reps-vs-low-reps-weight-lifting/
