There are several theories on how heavy your weights should be and how many sets and repetitions (or reps) you should be doing of each exercise. This will ultimately depend on many factors such as fitness level and whether or not you are just beginning.
Just remember, a rep (or repetition) means how many times you do the particular motion in the one batch. A set is how many times you do the repetitions.
Here are 2 of the more popular options. See which one suits you best:
For those starting out and the time challenged, this may be a simpler and more achievable alternative.
*Select a weight that is heavy enough that your muscle group is tired after 12 repetitions. You will only be doing your exercises for the one set of 12 reps. Once you become stronger and the exercise becomes easier you increase the weight level appropriately. This option will not suit those looking for a challenge but will be sufficient for those wanting to tone up.
“A Bank Unlike Any Other.”