Training glossaryIntensity techniques
Warm-up set
A warm-up set is a light set performed before the working sets to prepare muscles, joints and the nervous system for the main load.
Also known as: Specific warm-up · Approach set
It does not count toward training volume: the goal is to rehearse technique and raise the load in steps up to the working weight — with fewer reps as the weight climbs, so you arrive ready without arriving tired.
The amount varies with context: heavy compound lifts at the start of the session usually call for 2 to 4 approach sets, while light isolation work at the end of a workout often needs none of its own.
Sources
Scientific references behind this entry.
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