When it comes to counting reps, how you do it can make a difference in both performance and motivation.

According to Charles Staley, creator of the Escalating Density Training System, counting down is psychologically easier than counting up. Knowing how many reps remain keeps you focused on the task ahead rather than dwelling on what’s already been done. Charles Poliquin also advocated for counting down to maintain concentration during workouts.

Break High-Rep Sets into Chunks

For high-rep sets, breaking them into smaller groups can make them mentally easier. Instead of counting from 15 to 1, try counting 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 three times. This method makes large numbers feel more manageable and less daunting.

Try Not Counting at All

In some cases, silence is best. Not counting reps allows trainees to focus on quality over quantity. I often stay quiet during a set, offering only brief cues and counting down only the final few reps to keep clients engaged.

Find What Works for You

That said, some clients actually prefer counting up, going against the typical advice. The key is to experiment and find what works best for each individual. Whether counting up, down, or not at all, the goal remains the same—staying focused and executing each rep with intent.