IFPA Trainer Practice Exam

Performing a set to failure and then lowering the weight to continue to failure describes a ______ system.

1. Heavy to light

2. Light to heavy

3. Drop/stripping

4. Pyramid

The correct answer is: Drop/stripping

The term that best describes the process of performing a set to failure and then lowering the weight to continue the exercise until failure is known as a drop or stripping system. This technique is commonly used in strength training and bodybuilding to maximize muscle fatigue and stimulate hypertrophy. By first pushing the muscles to their limit with a heavier load, the lifter recruits a larger number of muscle fibers and generates significant effort. Once failure is reached, reducing the weight allows the individual to continue the exercise, thereby further fatiguing the remaining muscle fibers. This method capitalizes on the gains made from working the muscles at high intensities and then extending the workout by using lighter weights, promoting muscle engagement and growth. Although the heavy to light system refers to a similar concept of systematically reducing weight, it does not specifically emphasize the continuation of the set to failure after the initial load. The light to heavy system progresses by increasing resistance, while the pyramid system involves adjusting weights and repetitions in a structured manner that does not necessarily focus on reaching failure immediately. In contrast, drop or stripping effectively captures the essence of this training technique, making it the correct answer.