Benefits of Low-Volume Training: My Experience So Far

A few early observations about my low-volume training.

It’s been about a full week of training with lower-volume training. I didn’t reduce my sets all that much, but cutting out one set per movement is significant enough to make an impact.

Here are some of my initial experiences.

• My focus has shifted. Before, I would think of the entire series of sets for an exercise. Now with only two sets to perform, I think of each set as an event. The first sets the stage and has me going all out without thinking about the next set or two. The second set is seen as a last chance to squeeze out everything I possibly can.
• Overall, fatigue is much more manageable. I’m not as exhausted after a session (especially a leg day!). I know this will positively impact my long-term recovery. I’m not saying a higher volume isn’t effective. Sometimes it’s nice to do a little less so your immune system can do a little catch-up.
• It’s a nice mental shift. I’m a believer in performing a certain program for as long as it works. Even if it stalls, I’ll still try to shift a few things here and there until it cranks back up again. But every now and then, it’s nice to shift a few gears and change things up in a big way. A little mental renewal, if you will.
• It’s a good season for it. As the fall and winter months approach, and things get busier, it’s somewhat of a relief to reduce volume, recover a little more, and enjoy training again. With this mindset, I don’t feel as guilty missing a workout because I know I’ll just turn up the intensity for the very next workout.

I’ll keep you posted on more soon.

What about you? Are you doing something different during the holidays? Let me know in the comments.

Happy lifting!