Ep 34_Training to Failure: Myth, Science & Strategy

control yourself with dr andreo spina

In this episode, I explore training to failure by analyzing the scientific literature through the lens of first principles physiology.

Given the inconsistencies in research, this approach enhances our understanding and helps optimize training programs for hypertrophy and other musculoskeletal outcomes.

We explore:

* Conflicting research findings on training to failure vs. training with reps in reserve

* Differentiating training for hypertrophy vs. strength training

* The role of momentary muscular failure vs. technical failure

* How beginners vs. experienced lifters should approach training to failure

* The concept of muscular strength deficit and neurological access

* Why exercise selection and tissue specificity matter

* Avoiding the trap of volume overload and injuries

You’ll learn how training to failure fits within broader adaptation principles and discover that not all failure is equal, ultimately guiding you to make informed decisions in your training approach.

This episode will also touch upon:

* Load application that respects capacity and promotes adaptation

* Programming that recognizes the difference between skill acquisition and tissue development

* The intelligent use of intensity as a biological input, not a motivational tool

* Muscular strength deficit: The gap between neural access and anatomical potential

* Patterned movement constraint: The neurological consequence of repetitive movement in the same vector

* Motor unit recruitment zones: Understanding spatial limitations in patterned hypertrophy work

* Stimulate / retrain / de-train framework: Intensity mapped onto recovery and adaptive bandwidth

* Adaptive currency: The finite biological resource for generating structural change

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#JointCapacity

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(edit and add ours as you see fit)