Glossary
Exercise-program terminology
Plain-language definitions connected to practical program decisions.
Definition
→Progressive overload
The gradual increase of training challenge over time.
Definition
→Training volume
The amount of work performed, often described through sets, repetitions, distance or time.
Definition
→Recovery
The process of restoring readiness between training sessions.
Definition
→Intensity
How demanding an activity is, measured differently across strength and aerobic exercise.
Definition
→Training frequency
How often an exercise, muscle group or activity is trained.
Definition
→Rate of perceived exertion (RPE)
A subjective scale for rating how hard an effort feels.
Definition
→Repetition
One complete performance of an exercise movement.
Definition
→Set
A group of repetitions performed before a rest period.
Definition
→Hypertrophy
An increase in muscle size associated with training and recovery.
Definition
→Deload
A planned period of reduced training stress.