Just joined the gym and feel like everyone’s speaking a different language? You’re not alone. Starting your fitness journey is exciting, but all those gym terms and acronyms—like HIIT, DOMS, or AMRAP—can make it feel a bit overwhelming.
In this beginner’s guide, we break down 18 commonly used gym terms and abbreviations to help you feel more confident and in control of your workouts. Bookmark this post and refer back to it anytime.
Reps
Short for repetitions, reps refer to the number of times you perform a single movement. For example, 10 reps of bicep curls means lifting the weight 10 times.
Sets
A set is a group of reps performed together before taking a rest. For example: 3 sets of 10 reps = 30 total lifts split into 3 rounds.
Cardio
Cardiovascular exercise that gets your heart rate up and improves endurance. Examples include running, cycling, and jump rope.
HIIT
High-Intensity Interval Training combines short bursts of intense effort followed by brief recovery periods. It’s effective for fat loss and conditioning.
DOMS
Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness refers to the muscle pain or stiffness that typically appears 24–48 hours after a workout. It’s a normal part of recovery.
Rep Max (1RM)
Your rep max is the maximum weight you can lift for a given number of reps. Your 1-rep max (1RM) is the heaviest weight you can lift for one full repetition.
Spotter
A spotter is someone who stands by to help you complete an exercise safely, especially during heavy or risky lifts like the bench press.
Plate
A weight plate is the round disc added to barbells or machines to increase the resistance.
Superset
Two exercises performed back-to-back without resting in between. Often used to intensify workouts or save time.
AMRAP
As Many Reps As Possible within a given time frame. AMRAP workouts challenge endurance and mental focus.
RPE
Rate of Perceived Exertion is a scale (usually 1–10) used to measure how hard you feel you’re working during exercise.
WOD
Workout of the Day, a term most commonly used in CrossFit, referring to a pre-programmed daily workout.
PR
Personal Record. The best you’ve ever done in a specific exercise—whether it’s lifting your heaviest weight or achieving your fastest run.
Plyometrics
Explosive exercises that involve jumping or rapid movements. Great for building speed and power. Examples include box jumps and jump squats.
Tabata
A type of HIIT training: 20 seconds of work, 10 seconds of rest, repeated for 8 rounds. Fast, intense, and effective.
BCAAs
Branched-Chain Amino Acids are supplements that can support muscle recovery and reduce post-workout soreness.
BMI
Body Mass Index is a general measure of body fat based on height and weight. Not always accurate for athletic individuals but commonly used.
CNS
The Central Nervous System regulates movement, coordination, and fatigue. Intense training can stress the CNS and requires proper recovery.
Understanding the language of the gym is the first step toward building lasting confidence and momentum in your fitness journey. These basic terms will help you follow workout programs, ask the right questions, and progress more effectively.
Looking for a practical workout to get started? Download my free beginner eBook
Need a personalized training plan? Contact me for custom coaching tailored to your goals, schedule, and lifestyle.