The Study
Superset Versus Traditional Resistance Training Prescriptions: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Exploring Acute and Chronic Effects on Mechanical, Metabolic, and Perceptual Variables
This study looks at a bunch of other studies to compare superset and regular weight training. It can tell us that supersets might be linked to things like saving time or making you feel more tired, but it can't prove that supersets directly cause these things because the studies weren't set up to show cause and effect.
Analysis score
Maximum 100 for a systematic review with meta-analysis.
Where the score came from
Doing two exercises back-to-back (supersets) makes workouts shorter but just as effective for building muscle and strength.
Where does this study sit?
Reviews of RCTs (Meta-analyses)
Max 100Randomized Trials
Max 90Reviews of Cohort Studies
Max 85Cohort Studies
Max 72Reviews of Case-Control Studies
Max 63Case-Control Studies
Max 58Cross-Sectional & Case Series
Max 50Expert Opinion
Max 539 / 100
Quality score
The highest quality evidence. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses that pool randomized controlled trials, giving the most reliable summary of experimental evidence.
Key takeaways
Summary
Based on the study abstract and findings.
- 1Yes, useful for busy people who want efficient workouts.
- 2Workouts are 37% faster, same reps and weight lifted, but you feel more tired.
Score breakdown, methodology, conflicts of interest, evidence analysis & raw study data
Publication
Journal
Sports Medicine (Auckland, N.z.)
Year
2025
Authors
Xing Zhang, Jonathon Weakley, Hansen Li, Zhaoqian Li, Amador García‐Ramos
Related Content
Claims (6)
For people who already lift weights, doing superset workouts (where you do exercises back-to-back) gives about the same results for building strength, endurance, and muscle size as regular workouts over a few weeks.
A faster workout method called superset training cuts exercise time by over a third without reducing reps or weight, making workouts much more efficient for people who already exercise regularly.
When people who are already fit do superset workouts, they feel like they're working harder than with regular workouts, but they don't feel any more tired afterward. It's like pushing yourself more during exercise without feeling extra worn out later.
Doing certain types of back-to-back exercises shortens workout time but still builds muscle and strength just as well.
When people who lift weights do superset training (doing exercises back-to-back without rest), their bodies produce more lactic acid and burn more energy during and after workouts compared to regular training. This means their muscles work harder and get more stressed.
When people do certain types of back-to-back exercises called supersets, it can help them do more reps with one type but lower the weight they can handle with another type, showing that the way you pair exercises affects workout results.
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.