The effect of the exercises order on number of repetitions and rate of perceived effort in resistance trained men

Abstract

The order of exercises refers to the sequence during a training bout. Some evidence shows that the number of repetitions may be affected by the order of exercises. Both the number of repetitions and the rate of perceived effort (PSE) are influenced by exercise load. Thus, changes in the number of repetitions may affect PSE. Additionally, total work volume influences long term training adaptations and can be affected by the order of exercises. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of order of lower limb exercises on the number of repetitions, RPE and total work volume. Twelve resistance trained male (19.3 ± 2.1 years, 71.1 ± 9.8 kg, 172.4 ± 6.1 cm, 23.3 ± 11.5 months of training) performed leg-press (L), leg extension (E) and leg curl (F) exercises, in different orders (LFE or EFL). Number of repetitions, PSE and total work volume were compared by paired t-test with Bonferroni adjustment. Number of repetitions on both L and E decreased when they were performed last in the bout. The number of repetitions on F also decreased, when F was preceded by L. PSE for E was greater when performed at the end of the bout. However, PSE after L and F were not affected by the order. Total work volume was greater in LFE. In conclusion, the order of lower limb exercises affects the number of repetitions, PSE and total work performed, supporting the importance of the order of exercises as an important variable in training prescription.