Ok, I generally “Get” EDT: Start with 5 reps per set of your 10RM, alternate exercises within the 15 min PR zone. Don’t overthink things by counting tempos or rest periods etc.
Here is where I’m confused.
I almost always get 5 reps in every set, so it may appear the weight is too light - but I usually total about 35-40 reps for each exercise in the zone. I did a search to see what others were getting and mine seems a little low.
When I read descriptions of dropping down to doubles then singles, I don’t see how I’d be able to get around 50-60 reps per exercise without lifting almost constantly. Is this what I should do?
I guess what is confusing me is the fact that there are two variables, each of which can affect each other - # of reps & length of rest. Maybe I’m too used to 5x5 and have inadvertently kept the first variable constant while only varying the latter.
When I start, I complete the first few sets with almost no rest between them, then by the end I might be up to 30s. Is this too much? Does it seem like I should be reducing the rest periods towards the end of the zone?
I believe that figuring out the answer to your own question is the whole point of EDT…only you can really figure out what rest/work scheme will result in the greatest training density for you. The system puts the onus on you…you figure out how to keep your numbers going up.
Don’t miss the forest for the trees, and best of luck!
I would recommend not overthinking things. Charles has stated before that even of you do start too low with weight or repetitions that your EDT program will automatically self-correct.
Just focus on performing more quality work in the same amount of time and youll eventually end up making forward progress.
If you are hitting 5 reps per set, completing 15 minutes, and only getting 35 reps per exercise, the first question I would ask is how much time are you taking between sets? Remember that your goal is to beat your previous workout’s total reps, so you should drop the rest between sets, especially if you are hitting 5 quality reps per set. If not, you may be working out at Bally’s, which lays out the equipment as far from each other as possible. Not sure.
Good luck, and feel free to ask questions . …