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Fitness Terms Glossary

A plan says “3 × 8.” Which number counts the sets, and which counts the repetitions? Start with the eight quick definitions here, then use the worked example to put the words together.

You can also search 190 term topics. Their detailed guides are still being prepared; the quick definitions on this page are available now.

Read the quick definitions

Fitness Instructor AI editorial teamAI-assistedUpdated Oct 31, 2026

Read the notationExample only

3sets

8reps per set

Set 18 reps

Set 28 reps

Set 38 reps

Three sets of eight repetitions: 24 repetitions in total. Each dot represents one rep. This explains notation; it is not a workout prescription.

A useful starting point

Eight quick definitions.

These short meanings help you read a training note. The worked example below shows how the words fit together.

RepRepetition: One complete performance of an exercise movement. Reps count how many times you perform it. [1]
Set: A group of repetitions of an exercise. In a traditional set, the repetitions follow without planned pauses between them; other set structures arrange the pauses differently. [2]
Rest intervalInter-set rest: The break between sets. It is a separate part of the plan from the repetitions within a set. [2]
Training load: For the weight-training example here, the weight used for each repetition. Read the load information alongside the exercise and its repetition target. [2]
Volume load: A total based on load and repetition counts: multiply each recorded load by its repetitions, then add those amounts for the training being counted. [2]
CardioAerobic exercise: Aerobic activity that uses large muscle groups and increases your breathing and heartbeat, such as walking, cycling or swimming. [3]
Strength trainingResistance training: Exercise in which your muscles work against resistance. Weights, resistance bands and your own body weight can provide that resistance. [3]
Energy balance: The relationship between energy from food and drink and the energy your body uses for its functions and physical activity. [3]

Put the words together

Read one example without filling in the gaps.

Imagine an exercise entry that records 3 sets × 8 reps, with a recorded load of 10 kg for each rep. These are made-up numbers for reading practice.

Count repetitions

3 × 8 = 24 reps

Three groups, with eight repetitions in each group.

Calculate this entry's volume load

24 × 10 kg = 240 kg

This calculation uses the same 10 kg recorded load for every rep. It illustrates the load-times-repetitions arithmetic. [2]

Find a term topic

Search the 190-topic index.

The detailed pages for these topics are in preparation. Eight entries also link back to a quick definition you can read on this page.

Showing 190 of 190 term topics

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Sources

CDC: What Counts as Physical Activity for Adults. Repetition and aerobic-activity terminology.
ACSM: 2026 resistance-training position stand. Table 2 defines the training variables; the discussion explains volume load. The research concerns healthy adults.
MedlinePlus: Definitions of Health Terms — Fitness. Aerobic exercise, strength training and energy balance.

The diagram, wording and worked example were created for this site. The example illustrates vocabulary and arithmetic, not a recommended exercise session.

Fitness Terms Glossary

Eight quick definitions.

Read one example without filling in the gaps.

Search the 190-topic index.

10RM

Adjustable Dumbbells

Aerobic Vs Anaerobic

Agonist Antagonist

Amino Acids

Antagonist Superset

Anterior Chain

Anti Extension

Arm Day

Asymmetry

Autoregulation

Auxiliary Muscle

Back Off Set

Beta Alanine

Block Periodization

BMI

BMR

Body Composition

Bodybuilding

Bracing

Bumper Plates

Caffeine

Calisthenics

Calorie Counting

Calorie Cycling

Calorie Surplus

Calories

Carb Cycling

Carb Loading

Carbohydrates

Cardio

Cardiovascular System

Central Fatigue

Central Nervous System

Chalk

Cheat Reps

Circuit Training

Citrulline

Concentric Contraction

Concurrent Training

Core Stability

Crossfit

Dehydration

Diet Break

Dietary Fat

Dietary Fiber

Dip Station

Dirty Bulk

Dynamic Stretching

EAA

Eccentric Contraction

Electrolytes

EMOM

EMS

Endurance

Energy Balance

EPOC

Exercise Order

Exercise Selection

Fatigue

Fatigue Management

Flexibility

Foam Rolling

Forced Reps

Form

Functional Training

General Warm Up

Giant Set

Glycemic Index

Glycogen

Hatfield Method

Heart Rate Variability

High Volume Training

HIT

Hook Grip

Hydration