Intensity

Intensity describes how challenging an exercise, a set, or a training session is in relation to your maximum performance. High intensity can mean heavy weights, short breaks, or many repetitions performed until just before muscle failure. On the EISENHORN strength station, intensity can be precisely controlled through resistance, movement speed, or range of motion. This allows exercises such as bench press or deadlift to be optimized for both beginners and advanced users.

It is important that training intensity is gradually increased over time to make progress. However, this does not necessarily mean that only the weight has to be increased. Intensity can also be influenced by tempo, length of breaks, or execution of the exercises. The crucial point is to push yourself to your personal limits, regardless of how you feel on a particular day.

How do we define intensity in the context of the MIKE5 training concept? In training theory, intensity refers to the selected resistance in relation to the maximum repetition (1RM). In other words, the level of the selected load as a percentage of the maximum load with which only a single repetition can be performed.

At MIKE5, we relate intensity to the maximum load in relation to the specified interval. This is a slight modification of the definition from training theory. This means that at a required intensity of 100%, you cannot perform a single additional repetition at the end of the specified load time (interval). The muscle fails, so to speak. An intensity of 80% would mean that you are already working hard. However, you would still be able to continue your training. Namely, 20% longer than the time specified by the interval.

When training with MIKE5, you can rely on your feelings and do not need to measure these values precisely. What is important, however, is that you learn to reach 100%. These are the sets in which you really achieve an effective training stimulus. The information provided is a guide and not scientific data. It is always a matter of going through different phases of muscle activation so that an effective training stimulus is set at the end.

You can find out more about training intensity in our blog post: "Intensity is essential".