Research
Adherence
Performing one long resistance training session results in higher perceived effort and discomfort, but also higher session pleasure and preference compared to splitting the same workout into two shorter sessions.
If you enjoy feeling like you've worked hard, do one long session. If you prefer to feel less uncomfortable during the workout, split it. Both approaches are valid; choose based on your psychological preference.
GoodQualifiesHIGH confidence
The long session led to higher RPE... and sPDF... Twenty-two participants preferred the long session, while one preferred the short sessions.
Why this rating
Same study design, subjective measures are reliable but variable.
Source
Effects of one long vs. two short resistance training sessions on training volume and affective responses in resistance-trained women
Helene Pedersen et al. · Frontiers in Psychology · 2022
DOI 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1010596
crossover · n=23Cited 5×
Read the paper DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10
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This is one finding among thousands. Every one is graded and traced to its source, so you can see what the evidence actually supports. Browse the research →