The Claim

Single-set resistance training performed to muscular failure may be associated with greater improvements in countermovement jump height compared to single-set resistance training performed with two repetitions in reserve, although the observed difference does not reach statistical significance and the practical benefit remains uncertain.

Source: Without Fail: Muscular Adaptations in Single Set Resistance Training Performed to Failure or with Repetitions-in-Reserve.

What the research says

Supports is higher

Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.

Supports
61score
Challenges
0score

These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.

Correlation
1 study reviewed
In plain English

Doing one set of strength training until your muscles are totally tired might help you jump higher than stopping two reps early, but we’re not sure if the difference really matters.

See the scientific wording

Single-set resistance training to failure may be associated with greater improvements in countermovement jump height compared to training with two repetitions in reserve, but the difference lacks clear statistical support, indicating uncertainty about the practical benefit.

Why this might work

When muscles are pushed to their limit, more nerve signals fire faster to the muscle fibers, making them contract harder and faster, which improves how high a person can jump.

Suggested mechanismbased on 1 study

What the research says

1 study
  1. Study: Without Fail: Muscular Adaptations in Single Set Resistance Training Performed to Failure or with Repetitions-in-Reserve.

    This study found that lifting weights until you can't do another rep might help you jump a little higher than stopping two reps before failure, but the difference was so small that we can't say for sure it matters. So yes, it might help—but we're not certain.

Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies

Fit Body Science verdict — we translate health claims into clear verdicts backed by peer-reviewed research.

Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.