In my young career as a personal trainer, I have come across a concept in the last couple of years that has helped me tremendously, in gaining strength and staying fresh. I want to share it with you all. 

This concept is called ‘Rep Speed’. When the speed of your repetition slows down, you are done with your set. This means you are not training to failure.

When you train to failure and try to push your body too hard, your repetitions get slower, your body starts getting into awkward positions, then there is pain, and eventual injury. 

It’s all about convincing your body to give you more strength. If you are trying to do something you have no business trying, your nervous system will shut you down.  

“Strength isn’t built, it’s granted by your nervous system” – Paul McIlroy

The easiest way to stay far from injury and push past plateaus is to pay attention to your Rep Speed. 

This has been huge for me since I primarily train on my own.

Using this concept I learned from the Iron Tamer David Whitley, I was able to improve my deadlift numbers for the StrongFirst Tactical Strength Challenge(TSC) dramatically. 

TSC #1 

Deadlift: 335lbs (missed my attempt at 365)  

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TSC #2 

Deadlift: 415lbs  

I was at different body weights for each competition as well (173lbs for TSC #1 and 193lbs for TSC #2). That is still an 80lb difference in the deadlift and that 415 came up easier than expected. 

David Whitley once told me “Making everything easy, makes everything easy”. He was absolutely correct. 

I also wanted to share this article with you since it does a fantastic job on explaining this concept in a more detailed way….and after you read it, save it. REP SPEED- Geoff Neupert   

Add this concept into your training and let me know how it goes. 

Be Confident. Be Strong.