Of Supersets And Compound Sets

A client asked me to explain the difference between a superset and compound set to him. Simply put, a superset comprises two exercises done back to back without rest. Supersetting can be done for the same muscle group (eg. triceps), opposing muscle groups (biceps and triceps) or any combination of muscles. I personally like supersetting two opposite muscle groups the best as it really requires you to push yourself harder and gives you that pump effect.

Similarly a weight training terminology, a compound set refers to using two different exercises done consecutively to hit the same muscle group. An example would be doing dumbbell kickbacks followed by rope pressdowns. The benefit of doing compound sets is that you really focus all your energies on a particular muscle group, which almost guarantees that you tear the muscle fibers which is the primary aim.