Q: I know that muscle recovery occurs during your resting time. So if you push your muscles further between your recovery times, then ur muscles will have to work harder during the actual recovery period. Will that give you optimal results?? Do you suggest 30 second rests between sets?? or less?

A: If you lift weights that cause muscular failure after 12 or fewer reps, then you should take fairly long breaks in between sets. 2 or even 3 minutes may be appropriate after especially heavy sets. If you're able to do a set, rest for 30 seconds, and then repeat the same set with the same weight, that means you need to pick up heavier weights! When done at proper intensity, you should seriously struggle to match the first set with the second and third sets even with 2-3 minute breaks. Remember that your goal when lifting weights is to exercise at maximum intensity. By not giving your muscles enough time to recover in between sets, you are preventing them from exercising at maximum intensity and making your weights workout more like cardio.