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More Lifters Should Use RPE Instead of Chasing Numbers
Most gym-goers chase PRs and numbers on the bar, but that approach can lead to burnout, poor recovery, and inconsistent progress. Using the RPE scale from 1 to 10 helps lifters train smarter, adjust for daily readiness, and stay on track for long-term gains without wrecking their body.
A lot of lifters walk into the gym with a number in their head. “I need to squat 315 for five today.” But what if you slept like garbage? What if your joints are beat up from work or you skipped breakfast? That 315 might feel like 400.
Today’s topic: RPE. Struggling to find the perfect balance between pushing your limits and overtraining? Understanding and implementing the Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale could be the game-changer you need. In this edition, we'll explore how RPE allows you to tailor your training intensity to your body's signals, leading to more effective and personalized workouts.
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Why More Lifters Should Use RPE Instead of Chasing Numbers
RPE lets you auto-regulate. You adjust the weight to match how your body actually feels that day, not how you felt last week or how your buddy is lifting next to you. That’s smart training.
Here’s the thing: You can still push yourself. You can still track progress. But RPE gives you built-in flexibility. It keeps your ego in check and puts longevity first.
Here's what that looks like in practice: Let’s say your coach programs 3 sets of 6 reps at RPE 8 on bench press. Week one, you do 185 pounds and it feels like an 8. Week two, you’re feeling strong and 190 feels like an 8. Week three, you’re tired, but 180 still hits that same RPE.
Guess what? You’re still training at the right intensity, even though the weight changed. You're not failing reps. You’re not grinding. You're training consistently with the right effort.
That’s how you build strength over time.
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