What is considered "low" reps?

JJinWI

I see conflicting info here. Some say 4 or 5 is low - others say 10-12 is low. For example, which is better?

Do 3 sets of 6 bicep curls with 15 lb weights
or
Do 3 sets of 10-12 with 8 lb weights

I prefer the former, but now I'm beginning to question myself.

UponThisRock

6 or less typically. But it isn't so clear cut, consider this: http://i.imgur.com/UrF1U.png

almaster666

Depends on what you're trying to do.

Power: 1-5 reps
Strength: 2-6 reps
Muscle hypertrophy (muscle growth): 6 - 12 reps
Endurance: 15+ reps

myfitnessnmhoy

The ones you prefer. Only because that means you'll do them. The rep you do because you want to is infinitely better than the rep you avoid because you hate it.

Seriously, I've heard from a couple of trainers that "low weight high number of repititions" is generally better unless you are training to lift weights exclusively. More reps and lower weight tends to burn more calories before your muscles tire out (though fewer in a given amount of time), and leaves you more flexible. Or so the theory I've heard goes, which may be BS.

EDIT: And Almaster (above) beat me to it with a far better explanation.

Iluvchopsticks

I consider 1-5 low rep but I doubt there is any definitive answer.