The Study
The Acute and Chronic Effects of Superset Resistance Training Versus Traditional Resistance Training-A Narrative Review.
This study is like a big summary of many other studies about exercise. It tells us what people have found out so far, but it can't prove that one type of exercise causes certain results because it's just putting together others' work, not doing new tests itself.
Analysis score
Maximum 5 for a narrative review.
Where the score came from
This study looked at two ways to lift weights: supersets (doing exercises back-to-back) and traditional (resting between exercises).
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 51 / 100
Quality score
Based on clinical experience or non-systematic literature reviews. The lowest level of evidence as they are most susceptible to bias and personal perspective.
Key takeaways
Summary
Based on the study abstract and findings.
- 1Yes, it means you can get similar results in less time.
- 2Supersets take half the time but work just as well for building muscle and strength.
Score breakdown, methodology, conflicts of interest, evidence analysis & raw study data
Publication
Journal
Journal of strength and conditioning research
Year
2025
Authors
Z. Mang, Jason R. Beam, Len Kravitz
Related Content
Claims (6)
Doing certain types of back-to-back exercises shortens workout time but still builds muscle and strength just as well.
When people do superset workouts (doing exercises back-to-back without rest), their bodies work harder and show more signs of effort—like higher heart rate, more sweating, and feeling more tired—compared to doing regular workouts with rest breaks.
When you compare two types of weightlifting—supersets and regular sets—they work your muscles just as hard and you lift about the same amount, based on quick tests from different research.
Superset workouts take about half the time of regular weight training, which is great for busy people who struggle to find time to exercise.
When lifting weights the normal way, you can usually generate more power than when doing supersets, which means you can move the weight faster and with more force.
Doing superset workouts and regular weightlifting give you about the same long-term results for things like getting stronger, building muscle, and improving endurance.
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.