Direct answer: Repetitions in reserve, or RIR, are an estimate of how many repetitions you could still do in the combined pattern. They help record effort along with load and repetitions. The estimate improves with experience and can be inaccurate at first.
Set default before estimating
Consider the execution that should be maintained, including amplitude and control. A repetition made with great change of position should not be used to announce that there was too much reserve. The coach needs to know what you understand by a possible repetition.
Learn to register
After the sets, write down your estimate and describe what made it difficult to continue. Shortness of breath, balance and discomfort may confuse the perception of muscle effort. Videos and conversation help to interpret the record without requiring a precision that you have not yet developed.
Use information to adjust
If the effort is much lower than expected in several sessions, the load or repetitions may need revision. If all sets exceed the desired difficulty, the plan also deserves adjustment. RIR serves to communicate response, and not to transform each training into a maximum test.
What to record and discuss
- Confirm which execution is worth to count the repetitions.
- Write down the estimate right after the sets.
- Describe whether you stopped by effort, balance, or discomfort.
Questions about this topic
RIR 2 means what?
Does beginner have to get it right all the time?
References and further reading
Educational content. Examples need adaptation to your experience, routine and health context.