PEAK PERFORMANCEWeeks to result

Rep Range Framework

Optimize your rep range for progress

Problem it solves

Suboptimal health habits undermine energy, performance, and longevity; this framework provides specific evidence-based practices to build a sustainable physical and mental health foundation.

Best for

Individuals looking to optimize their training for hypertrophy or strength gains

Not ideal for

Beginners or those with limited training experience

Overview

Why this framework exists

The Rep Range Framework involves selecting the optimal rep range for your training goals, whether it's hypertrophy, strength, or endurance. By choosing the right rep range, individuals can optimize their training and achieve their goals more efficiently.

Core principles

3 total
  1. Choose a rep range that aligns with your training goals
  2. Consider the exercise and muscle group being trained
  3. Adjust your rep range based on your individual needs and progress

Steps

3 steps
  1. Determine your training goals
    Identify your primary training goal, whether it's hypertrophy, strength, or endurance. This will help you select the optimal rep range.
    Pro tipConsider your current training experience and adjust your rep range accordingly
    WarningAvoid using a single rep range for all exercises and muscle groups
  2. Select the optimal rep range
    Based on your training goals, select the optimal rep range. For hypertrophy, aim for 8-12 reps. For strength, aim for 3-5 reps.
    Pro tipUse a periodized training approach to alternate between different rep ranges
    WarningAvoid using too high or too low of a rep range, as this can lead to plateaus or injury
  3. Adjust your rep range as needed
    Monitor your progress and adjust your rep range as needed. Pay attention to how your body responds to different rep ranges and make changes accordingly.
    Pro tipUse data and feedback to inform your training decisions
    WarningAvoid getting too comfortable with a single rep range - continue to challenge yourself and adjust as needed

Checklist

Saved in your browser

Examples

2 cases
Hypertrophy training

An individual aims to build muscle and uses a rep range of 8-12 for all exercises. They adjust their rep range based on progress and continue to challenge themselves.

OutcomeThe individual achieves significant hypertrophy gains and continues to progress over time
Strength training

An individual aims to build strength and uses a rep range of 3-5 for all exercises. They adjust their rep range based on progress and continue to challenge themselves.

OutcomeThe individual achieves significant strength gains and continues to progress over time

Common mistakes

3 traps
Using a single rep range for all exercises
Failing to adjust your rep range based on the exercise and muscle group being trained can lead to plateaus or injury
Not adjusting your rep range based on progress
Failing to adjust your rep range as you progress can lead to plateaus or stagnation
Using too high or too low of a rep range
Using a rep range that is too high or too low can lead to injury or plateaus

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The concept of rep ranges has been debated among trainers and athletes for decades. Recent research has shed light on the importance of selecting the optimal rep range for specific training goals.

Source

Traced to primary
Source · PODCAST
Build Your Ideal Physique | Dr. Bret Contreras
Andrew Huberman · 2025
Open source →