General
intensity
What does intensity mean?
How hard a set or session is, commonly measured as a percentage of one-rep max, or by RPE/RIR.
"Increase intensity by working closer to your max."
Origin
Strength-programming variable central to progression.
Frequently asked questions
What does intensity mean in lifting?
Intensity is how hard a set is, usually measured as a percentage of your one-rep max or by effort scales like RPE and RIR.
Is intensity the same as how tired you feel?
Not exactly — in strength programming intensity specifically refers to the load relative to your max, though it's often felt as effort via RPE.
How do you increase intensity?
You can lift a heavier percentage of your max, take sets closer to failure, or reduce reps in reserve.
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