What to Do When You Can’t Complete Your Reps: Expert Advice

Hitting a wall during your workout can be frustrating, but there are strategies to help you push through. When you can’t complete the prescribed number of repetitions for an exercise, here’s what the experts recommend:

Maintain Proper Form

If you find yourself struggling to finish your reps, the first priority should be maintaining proper form. Trying to power through with poor technique can lead to injury and negate the benefits of the exercise. Instead, focus on executing each rep with control and precision, even if it means reducing the weight or number of reps.

Adjust the Weight or Reps

If you simply can’t complete the full set, it’s better to adjust the weight or number of reps than to sacrifice form. Try dropping the weight slightly and see if you can finish the set. Alternatively, you can reduce the number of reps per set and increase the number of sets to maintain the overall volume.

Take a Longer Rest Period

Sometimes, the issue isn’t the weight or reps, but rather insufficient recovery time between sets. If you’re feeling fatigued, try extending your rest period by an extra 30-60 seconds before attempting the next set. This can help replenish your energy stores and allow you to complete the full workout.

Seek Professional Guidance

If you consistently struggle to complete your workouts, it may be time to consult a personal trainer or exercise specialist. They can assess your form, programming, and overall fitness level to help you identify and address the root cause of the issue. With their expertise, you can develop a plan to overcome your limitations and achieve your fitness goals.