Hey I am just curious. I have started a small workout routine and I was just wondering: How much time should I rest between each set? 30 seconds 3 minutes? Is it more beneficial to rest more, or would I be losing possible gains if I rested too long? I don't know much about this sort of stuff....
This is an excerpt from an about.com article that may help you:
For fat loss: Do 10-12 reps using enough weight that you can ONLY complete the desired reps and 1-3 sets (1 for beginners, 2-3 for intermediate and advanced exercisers). Rest about 30 seconds-1 minute between sets and at least one day between workout sessions
For muscle gain: Do 6-8 reps enough weight that you can ONLY complete the desired reps and 3 or more sets, resting for 1-2 minutes between sets and 3 or more days between sessions. For beginners, give yourself several weeks of conditioning before going to this level. You may need a spotter for many exercises.
For health and muscular endurance: Do 12-16 reps using enough weight that you can ONLY complete the desired reps and 1-3 sets, resting 20-30 seconds between sets and at least one day between workout sessions.
How Long To Rest Between Exercises/Workout Sessions
Again, this will depend on your goal. Higher intensity (i.e., when lifting heavy) exercise requires a longer rest. When lifting to fatigue, it takes an average of 3 to 5 minutes for your muscles to rest for the next set. When using lighter weight and more repetitions, it takes between 30 seconds and 1 minute for your muscles to rest.
I personally rest about 1-2 minutes but I do heavy weightlifting. I'm a little aggressive and intense in my workouts to be honest but I still rest. If I did lighter weights, I'd probably rest 30 seconds to 1 minute max in between sets.
Now, resting in between different exercises, I would rest maybe 2-3 minutes just to coop up some more energy and tad bit of rest to catch some breath.
Remember, eat properly and rest 6-8 hours each night. Sit up striaght on a chair without slouching. Eat natural foods and stretch properly prior to your workout. This is critical to warm up your muscles and get the blood flowing, preventing possible injuries.
