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Thread: How long a pause between squat reps?

  1. #1
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    Default How long a pause between squat reps?

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    The title pretty much says it all, but how long is too long to stop and breathe?

    Or is there no such thing as too long a pause, if it helps get that next rep?

  2. #2
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    It varies with the length of the set. 5s or fewer get a breath to reset. Longer sets might take 2 breaths. During the last few reps of a true 20RM squat, just do what Jesus tells you.

  3. #3
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    Thanks, Coach!

  4. #4
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    I always aim for a maximum of 2 breaths on my last rep of five. And one breath for the previous reps. There is no science in it, but if I plan how many breaths I take, it stops me being a pussy and taking too long.

  5. #5
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    Good point: breathing can be used to actually time the set and enforce your rhythm.

  6. #6
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    Dang, I think I just lost a few pounds off my 5 RM.

  7. #7
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    Howzat?

  8. #8
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    Because I was taking a lot more than one breath between reps ... being strict on that will give me an honest, but probably lower, 5 RM ...

    Oh well, had to deload anyway. Thanks, Coach.

  9. #9
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    No, no, no, things aren't this simple. There is never an absolute answer to everything, except of course that you have to do your squats. If you are working with enough weight that you need multiple breaths to get each rep, take them, but don't just stand there and pray that the next rep will be easier. If you need 2 or 3 between, take them. A novice should only be using one breath between, and I assumed that a question like this would come from a novice. My mistake.

  10. #10
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    starting strength coach development program
    Thanks, Coach -- will keep the "stand there and pray" limit in mind during my sets as I work up again this time.

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