How long to rest

[chuckvvv]

How long should you be resting between sets? A few minutes?

[Ryano]

For me it depends on the training session. DE sessions I only get minimal rest(1 - 2 minutes). ME sessions I take enough time to fully recover(as much as 10-15 minutes).

[MC]

My rule of thumb is to rest as long as you need to, but never as long as you want to.

I likely don't rest enough, especially between some bigger lifts, but I like to think that I am increasing my endurance as well by not having long periods of rest between sets.

[gaspers04]

ME for me 2-5 minutes and DE is around 30sec to 2min.

[jhew]

In truth it really depends on the type of program you are on and how quick you recover. Between 60 and 90 seconds is my typical rest time but some people take two to four minutes. Everyone is a bit different but try some different rest intervals until you find the right one for you.

[bamazav]

Originally Posted by jhew

In truth it really depends on the type of program you are on and how quick you recover.

I would add that it also depends on your goals. If you are trying to lose weight, shorter rests are to your advantage.

My rest time is usually long enough to change plates and record my previous lifts.

[Off Road]

Originally Posted by *MC*

My rule of thumb is to rest as long as you need to, but never as long as you want to.

I like that rule. I always rest as long as I feel I need to, so I can complete the next set. Sometimes up to five minutes.

[bruteforce]

I usually give it 90 seconds to 2 minutes before I get back under the bar, though its been known to take me another 30 seconds to talk myself into unracking it. When it comes to deadlifts, my rule of thumb is to rest until I stop seeing stars and can hear properly again.

[Rich Knapp]

Originally Posted by chuckvvv

How long should you be resting between sets? A few minutes?

Glycogen stores are refilled at around 30 sec. So any longer of a brake will depend on your conditioning.

I like to stay around the 30 sec mark for Bi's, Tri's, Traps, but on chest or back 30 - 60 sec.

Now Ab's recover REAL quick so I only take about a 5 sec brake.

[Tannhauser]

Originally Posted by chuckvvv

How long should you be resting between sets? A few minutes?

For a different perspective on this, and for interest, take a look at Trevor Lane's log on here. He is regularly knocking out multiple heavy sets of squats with very short rest periods. Just shows what can be achieved.