for the last couple of months, I've been helping some friends in their quest to get bigger and stronger. But since they are new to lifting I've let them do their exercises in the 10-12 rep range. But when should I let them lower the number of reps to 8 and eventually 5?
thx
As long as their form is held, there is no reason I can think of to not progress them into lower rep programs. In fact, after 2 months of 10-12 reps, they should enjoy the change and see some strength from it.
You did right to start newbies with some lighter loads and higher reps. But Newlife is right about the change.
You can either use a linear periodication scheme to drop them, such as 4 weeks in the 8 range, and then 4 in the 6 or 5 range.
Or, use an undulating scheme, such as Newlife noted. The only challenge with that is getting the loads right each workout, but unless you really want to hit an exact number of reps, it should not be a problem. The main issue is to mix it up each workout.
when to start using low reps?
:p 
Linear Mode
