How many reps would be better?

Question

I am 6 feet tall and 140 pounds, male. I am on my way to becoming a professional golfer and just started lifting weights seriously. I want to know how many reps would be good to do while working out. I dont want to get REALLY huge, but I do want to add some muscle to my body. I have heard that 6 to 8 is good for packing on muscle, but I was told that I should do 14-16. Can you guys explain what each will do for me and which one would be better?

Answer 1

Doing more than 12 reps isn't going to do you any good, because if you have low enough weight to where you can do that many reps, it's not going to do much for your muscles. You're going to want to have enough weight to where you can only lift 3-10 reps before reaching exhaustion.

Of course, if it's bulk you're trying to build, have the weight to where you can ONLY lift 3 reps before failure. If you want to get cut, aim for 10 reps before failure. Vary anywhere on the 3-10 rep spectrum to balance the bulk/cut results.

Answer 2

The answer to your question is that there is no set number.  If you do fewer reps per set you will be use heavier weights.  if you start out wanting to do more reps; thereby getting more endurance; you will work with lower amount of weight.  That makes sense right?  Some power lifters will train in the 2 -3 rep per set range but they desire to build explosive power for one rep.  Swimmers and tennis players desire less strength and more endurance for their particular sport.  Golf requires strength and coordination.  as you train with weights you will want to train to play golf as well.  Tiger Woods is quite fit but by no means is he muscular.  This lets him address the ball with authority and accuracy rather than look clumsy and musclebound.

Try varying your reps and sets and weight as well as keeping your swing balanced and coordinated.  You can add muscle all over and look certainly gain more power while not sacrificing your handicap for physical aesthetics.