Work out at the right intensity

(HealthDay News) -- Your workouts should challenge you physically, but not to the point of overexertion.

So how do you figure out an exercise intensity that's right for you? Follow these guidelines:

You should be able to do two sets of 10 repetitions in good form.
You should need to rest after doing a 10-repetition set before you do your next set. If you can do 20 repetitions without a break, you should use heavier weights.
If you can do more than 10 repetitions without a break in your first set, increase the weight you lift for the second set only.

Attribution: -- Diana Kohnle

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

First published: 07/25/2012
Last updated: 07/25/2012

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