2. Key Terms

To get the most out of your body conditioning experience, it’s important to understand some of the key terms.

Sets: Consist of several repetitions completed consecutively.

Reps: The number of times you do a movement in a set.

Example: Completing 3 sets of 8 reps or (3×8) of the bicep curls would consist of consecutively lifting the dumbbell 8 times (reps) to complete a set; rest would follow the set. The sequence would be followed two more times, completing the prescribed 3 sets of 8 reps or (3×8) of the bicep curls.

Frequency:  the number of times exercises is performed in a distinct time period. This could be per day, per week, per month or per years.

Intensity: the amount of work required during an exercise and the rate at which energy (ATP) is used. Several factors go into intensity including the weight being lifted, the amount of sets and reps performed, and the time in between sets. Anything to make an exercise more or less challenging is a matter of changing intensity.