Should You Train To Failure?

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Training to failure is a topic that comes up frequently. I think it is actually a fairly straightforward topic. In general, sets taken to muscular failure generate excellent growth, but also generate the most fatigue. Sets that are taken close to failure seem to generate just as much growth (or at least very very close), without generating the same amount of fatigue. Therefore, in order to maximize total weekly volume, I generally recommend most sets be taken close to failure, but not actually to failure. I also consider "maxing" to be different from training to failure (a max is the final rep you can do with perfect form) and am a big fan of using it as a way to manage fatigue. That all being said, some people tolerate training to failure totally fine. I have a client with an incredible work capacity that can hit failure and match his reps, set after set. Also, remember, not every exercises generates the same amount of fatigue when taken to failure. However, once you have established a good foundation, taking most of your sets 1-3 (or even 1-5) reps from failure is a good plan to ensure good fatigue management on a high frequency program. Failure training can serve to "idiot proof" a low volume/frequency training program, and it's still good to do every once in a while to make sure you are accurately gauging your proximity to failure.