The Effect of the Number of Sets on Power Output for Different Loads

There is much debate concerning the optimal load (OL) for power training. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of the number of sets performed for a given load on mean power output (P-mean). Fourteen physically active men performed 3 sets of 3 bench-press repetitions with 30, 40 and 50 kg. The highest mean power value (P-max) across all loads and P-mean were compared when data were taken from the first set at each absolute load vs. from the best of three sets performed. P-mean increased from the first to the third set (from 5.99 +/- 0.81 to 6.16 +/- 0.96 W.kg(-1), p = 0.017), resulting in a main effect of the set number (p < 0.05). At the 30 kg load P-mean increased from the first to the third set (from 6.01 +/- 0.75 to 6.35 +/- 0.85 W.kg(-1); p < 0.01). No significant effect was observed at 40 and 50 kg loads (p > 0.05). P-max and velocity were significantly affected by the method employed to determine P-mean at each load (p < 0.05). These results show a positive effect of the number of sets per load on P-mean, affecting P-max, OL and potentially power training prescription.