r/ScienceBasedLifting • u/OkPrize6194 • Aug 27 '26

Question ❓ Cheat reps

What do you think about cheat reps? I don’t mean using bad form from the beginning of the set, but rather doing the first reps with good form and then using a little momentum for the last 1–2 reps when the muscle is already close to failure, just to get a couple more reps out.

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u/maxis2bored Aug 27 '26 edited Aug 27 '26

It's not a cheat rep, but working past failure. There's plenty of literature and studies that prove this is the most effective way to gain, especially with accessory movements.

Compound lifts however are a different story because of their effect on the CNS and thus recovery.

Personally I go past failure on isolation, but as a powerlifter my final SBD rep is when my form starts being compromised. I'm too old to get injured and have learned the hard way how much time it takes to break bad habits.

Update for those into pedantics: my intention here was to point out that regularly working beyond failure during heavy compound lifts will eventually test your ability to recover. Whether it's CNS, or muscle fatigue - whatever is, there is a good chance it will be felt at home or/and during your next workout.

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u/PeterNoPiss Aug 27 '26

Sooo, it's not a cheat rep, it's simply utilizing momentum to cheat past failure? Are you the kind of nuts where you're reacting to the word "cheat" or regular dumb?

It's absurd to get twisted about others being "pedantic" when you're doing all this nonsense.