06/17/2026
Here's how to gradually increase your load safely at the gym.
Choose a weight that you can safely lift in your rep range with good form with some challenge on the last couple reps. Beginners should try 10-15 reps. If you're like me, doing size gains a.k.a. hypertrophy, 6-12 reps is great.
3 sets, taking a short rest between sets, is good for most exercises. I rest 1.5 minutes between sets, up to 3 minutes if I'm really pushing myself on the lift. I'll also usually circuit between a few exercises.
Rest for at least 48 hours for worked muscles. You can still do cardio, but let your body recover from heavy lifts.
Gradually build to the top of your rep range, then you're ready to add 5-10% in the load, starting again at the bottom of your rep range.