I've started using weights for the first time about a month ago to try and put on some muscle and mass (fat chance!). Chest and back on Mondays, biceps and triceps on Wednesdays, legs and shoulders on Fridays.
I'm using dumbells for most exercises and doing 4 sets of 8 reps with them. If I start with a weight that's heavy enough so I fail on the 8th rep in my first set, I can't finish all 4 sets. Should I aim to fail on the 8th rep of every set, even if it means using a lighter weight each set? Or should I pace myself and aim to fail on the final set?
Secondly, I'm using supersets, so each set is two sets working opposite muscle groups immediately after each other, then a 30 second rest. Is this a good idea? What benefit does this give?
Lastly, how long do you think until I start seeing a difference in strength and size? I know it's only a month but I expected to notice something by now - all that's happened so far is that I'm getting a love handle from cutting out my cardio in order to put on some weight!
Thanks guys.
Jon.

