Newbie weight increase question

AigreDoux

I am currently able to bench press 3x8 with 20 lb dumbbells. The next step up is 25 lbs. I tried it yesterday and I could only do 6 reps until I failed. Then I did the other 2 sets with 20 lbs and succeeded.

Do I just keep starting with the 25 lb dumbbells and move down to the 20 lbs when I fail, and hope I can eventually get the whole set in?

jessef593

What are your goals?

If you're attempting to strength train you have no reason to be going to failure with your dumbells on every set. Try a set with 20s to how ever many you want, then follow with 2 sets of 25s to just before failure. Then every workout try and get one more rep without failing, eventually you'll be starting with the 25s trying for 30s.

Progression takes its time, you just have to keep working at it. There will be points when you hit a weight and for the life of you, you won't be able to get past it. Though I highly doubt you're anywhere near plateauing. So definitely don't worry about that yet

AigreDoux

Thanks! My current goals are to maintain my muscle mass as I lose fat (have about 30 lbs to go to goal weight). My longer term goals are to be nicely toned, decrease my risk of osteoporosis, and generally be stronger.

I started with 12 lbs dumbbells, so I'm happy so far with my progression.