Return of the Fibro Diva

Returning to PT, I had an enlightening chat with my physical therapist, Amanda. She revealed that all the exercises I've been diligently doing serve three vital purposes:

(1) alleviating my lower back and leg pain, (2) enhancing my strength, stamina, and balance, and

(3) preparing me for the demands of caring for my newborn granddaughter and energetic toddler grandson.

Amanda, informed by Lauren of my goal of safe grandparenting, has been progressively increasing the weights and resistance bands while adjusting the sets and reps of each exercise. Curious about the change, I asked Amanda to explain the difference between low sets/high reps and high sets/low reps. She explained the nuances between one set of 30 reps and two sets of 15 reps in terms of intensity, rest periods, muscle fatigue, and training goals.

Intensity: Doing 30 reps in one set typically involves using lighter weights, enhancing muscle endurance by sustaining activity without breaks.

Rest Periods: Breaking exercises into two sets of 15 reps introduces rest intervals, allowing brief recovery and potentially heavier weights than with a single 30-rep set. Rest is crucial for muscle recovery and influences training outcomes.

Muscle Fatigue: A single set of 30 reps may lead to more muscle fatigue due to continuous tension, while two sets of 15 reps with rests can enhance performance as muscles recover slightly.

Training Goals: Higher reps with lighter weights improve muscle endurance, while moderate reps (like 15) with heavier weights promote hypertrophy (muscle growth). Rest periods aid in muscle recovery and growth.