How Many Reps Should I Do?
Your complete guide to rep ranges for strength training.
Finally get the answer to the question every gym-goer asks
Walk into any gym and you'll see it - confusion about rep ranges. Some people cranking out endless reps with tiny weights, others maxing out every single set. At Snap Fitness Maitland, we get asked this question more than any other: "How many reps should I actually be doing?"
The truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Your rep range should match your goals, and today we're breaking down exactly how to get it right.
1-6 Reps: Building Serious Strength
What it does: This is pure strength territory. You're training your nervous system to recruit maximum muscle fibers and generate serious power.
Perfect for:
Increasing your one-rep max
Building functional strength
Breaking through strength plateaus
Powerlifting and strength sports
How to do it: Load up the barbells, hit the squat racks, and grab those heavy dumbbells. At Snap Fitness Maitland, we've got all the equipment you need for serious strength training. Think 85-95% of your max effort.
Rest periods: 2-5 minutes between sets. Yes, really. Your muscles need time to recover for maximum power output.
Pro tip: Form is everything here. Heavy weights demand respect and perfect technique.
6-12 Reps: Growing Bigger Muscles (Hypertrophy)
What it does: This is the muscle-building sweet spot. You're creating the perfect storm of mechanical tension and metabolic stress that forces your muscles to grow.
Perfect for:
Adding size and definition
Bodybuilding goals
That "toned" look everyone wants
Building a solid foundation
How to do it: This is where variety shines. Mix barbells, dumbbells, cable machines, and isolation equipment. Our gym floor at Snap Fitness Maitland is designed exactly for this type of training.
Rest periods: 30-90 seconds. Keep that intensity high and muscles under tension.
Pro tip: Focus on the mind-muscle connection. Really feel those muscles working.
12-20+ Reps: Boosting Muscular Endurance
What it does: Training your muscles to resist fatigue and keep performing when others would quit.
Perfect for:
Improved stamina and conditioning
Circuit training and HIIT workouts
Sports performance
Getting that metabolic burn
How to do it: Lighter weights, resistance bands, kettlebells, and bodyweight exercises. Perfect for our 24/7 access members who love those late-night or early morning endurance sessions.
Rest periods: Very short - 30 seconds or less. Keep that heart rate elevated.
Pro tip: This is where mental toughness really gets tested. Push through the burn!
The Snap Fitness Maitland Advantage
Here's what makes all the difference: having the right equipment and environment for whatever rep range you're targeting. Whether you're going heavy for strength, moderate for muscle growth, or light for endurance, our gym has everything you need.
Plus, you're never training alone. Our supportive community and knowledgeable team are always here to help you dial in your program and ensure you're training smart, not just hard.
Your Next Step
Stop guessing and start progressing. The next time you walk into Snap Fitness Maitland, you'll know exactly what rep range to use and why. Your goals just got a whole lot clearer.
Ready to put this knowledge into action? We're here 24/7 to help you make it happen.