Choice of Resistance Used in an Exercise: Simple to Complex Interactions

ABSTRACT The choice of the resistance used in a workout and its sequence in a training program is a crucial decision for program design. Although the choice in many ways looks simplistic, its interactions with other factors make it a bit more complex when designing a training program. Basic scientific principles help to give context for many aspects of such decisions. Interactions with other acute program variables will also be crucial in how that resistance load in an exercise is manifested in a workout stimulus. Understanding training program sequences using periodization models also affect how one applies the choice of resistances over time. Finally, age and training experience will influence resistance load progressions. Having a handle on these fundamental factors will help give the strength and conditioning professional better insights into the choices made in the resistance used in an exercise.