As 2026 approaches, Dr. Sudhir Kumar from Apollo Hospital Hyderabad suggests focusing on muscle exertion rather than heavy weights for faster muscle growth. He emphasizes that the intensity of effort, total weekly training volume (sets per muscle group), and consistent, balanced workouts are key drivers. Muscle fibers grow when pushed near exhaustion, and research indicates similar growth with varying loads if effort is consistent. He recommends performing six to twelve repetitions per set with manageable resistance for efficient and joint-friendly stimulation.