MAX OT
Going to failure on every set is a work out theory. It is one of many mixed in are positive failure, negative failure, pyramid sets, super sets, and a host of other theorys on weight lifting and how to gain the most muscle the fastest.
I use a MAX OT workout..
Six basic principles
Principle #1
Do not train for more than an hour, 30-40 minutes being the optimal length.
It is scientifically proven that this shorter duration training maximizes your hormonal spikes. Training any longer is going to increase your secretion of cortisol, a catabolic hormone. Your routines also need to have a "sprint-like" quality to them to maintain maximum intensity. If you train too long you are going to pace yourself, whether that be consciously or subconsciously.
Principle #2
Train only 1 to 2 major muscle groups in a workout.
This is more psychological. You are more apt to pour more into your workouts if you know you are only hitting one or two muscle groups in a given workout.
Principle #3
Do 6 to 9 total heavy sets per muscle group.
I will tell you right now, this is generous. Honestly if you are pouring maximum intensity into your workouts, you probably won't need much more than 3 to 5 heavy sets. The stronger and more experienced you are, the less you will need. Also, with the given rest periods that will be prescribed, this is about all you could accomplish in the recommended time frame.
Principle #4
Do 4 to 6 reps per muscle group.
This is the heart and soul of maximizing your training. Why? For you to get the most muscle growth possible, you want to attack the muscle fibers that have the most growth potential - - your white, fast-twitched muscle fibers. Any other fiber has minimal growth potential in comparison and it is scientifically documented that the way to hit these white fibers is with a heavy weight in a 4 to 6 rep range. Also, any higher rep range is going to draw excess lactate into the muscle, thus fatiguing the muscle.
Remember... overload builds muscle, not fatigue. If you are constantly pulling lactate into the muscle, you will hinder your performance and shortchange your overload. Lastly, the added benefit of the 4 to 6 rep range is the "focus"element. It is a lot easier to put forth 100% mental intensity into a set that lasts 15-20 seconds than a set that would last double that time.
Principle #5
Rest 2 to 3 minutes between sets.
Another scientifically proven aspect of performance is that it can take anywhere from 90 seconds to 3 minutes for your Krebb's cycle to recover maximally, depending on the muscle being worked, the amount of weight used, and the exercise being performed. Again, if you do not fully recover between sets you are going to compromise your next set performance. Thus, in turn, would shortchange your overload on your target muscle. Optimal rest-time between sets would be 2 1/2 minutes, so set your stopwatches.
Principle #6
Train each muscle once every 5 to 7 days.
It has been shown time and time again that a muscle can take as long as 5 to 7 days to fully recover from a heavy, high-intensity workout. Get this straight if you don't already know it...WE DO NOT GROW IN THE GYM! Our lifting is just the stimulus for muscle growth. The recovery process is where the muscle responds by growing stronger and bigger, readying itself for future stress. If you do not allow full and complete recovery of your muscles, you will impede your growth and soon venture into the realm of overtraining.
Now that I have laid out the principles for you, you are probably asking yourself what a typical routine would look like. Below is one that I have just finished as I write this. I say finished because I change my routine every 4 weeks just for mental variety and stimulation. This routine is a great template for all of you to start with in your quest for MAXIMUM MUSCLE
Stolen from Bodybuilder.com
This is not the only way to train. Arnold had his way.. Mike Metzner has a way all very different.. Everyone can see results choose what you like listen to your body.. if it works keep doing it.
