Rest Period Calculator

Determine the optimal rest period between sets based on your training goal, exercise type, and intensity level.

%

Recommended Rest

180 sec

Rest in Minutes3.0 min
Minimum Rest135 sec
Maximum Rest225 sec

Recommended Rest vs Intensity (% of 1RM)

How Rest Periods Are Determined

Rest between sets depends on training intensity, exercise type, and your goal.

General Guidelines

  • Strength (1-5 reps, 85%+ 1RM): 3-5 minutes
  • Hypertrophy (6-12 reps, 65-85% 1RM): 1-3 minutes
  • Endurance (12+ reps, <65% 1RM): 30-90 seconds
  • Compound movements (squat, deadlift, bench) need more rest than isolation exercises because they recruit more muscle mass and are more neurologically demanding.

    Example Calculation

    Squatting at 80% 1RM for 5 reps.

    1. 01Base rest = 30 + 80 * 1.5 = 150 sec
    2. 02Compound bonus = 30 sec
    3. 03Rep adjustment = 0 (5 reps is in 5-12 range)
    4. 04Total = 150 + 30 + 0 = 180 sec = 3.0 min
    5. 05Range: 135-225 sec (2:15 to 3:45)

    Frequently Asked Questions

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