What’s “One Rep Max”?

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One repetition maximum (1RM) is the maximum weight an individual can lift during a single exercise. It is used to determine maximum body strength and can be calculated using online calculators. Knowing 1RM can help determine exercise goals and is used in strength competitions.

One repetition maximum (1RM) is the maximum amount of weight an individual can lift during a single exercise. It is an abbreviation for one repetition maximum. This weight limit is often used to determine someone’s total maximum body strength.

Typically, an individual will be able to perform one repetition maximum for different exercises, at different weights. For example, a person can only lift 50 lbs (22.7 kg) once during a bicep curl. That same person can lift 200 lbs (90.9 kg), once, during a barbell lift.

There are a variety of one rep max calculators available on the internet. These use the maximum number of repetitions an individual can perform during a single exercise, with a set weight, to determine the maximum weight you can lift for one repetition. Each exercise must be evaluated separately. The calculator is intended to be used as a suggested starting weight only, and this amount can be adjusted as needed by the athlete.

This formula can also be worked in reverse. If someone already knows their own one repetition maximum number for an exercise, they can use that number to calculate how many repetitions can be performed with a lower weight. That lower number of repetitions is known as a percentage of 1RM. This terminology is frequently found in physical training guides.

Knowing the one repetition maximum for various exercises can help an individual determine their overall exercise goals. Different parts of the body respond to varying levels of one repetition maximum percentage. When an athlete lifts 100% of her 1RM, she is generating neurological responses throughout the body to increase overall strength. When that number drops to between 65% and 75%, the body responds metabolically, increasing muscle size rather than strength. With this information in mind, an individual can create a training regimen that focuses on their own personal goals, whether it’s getting stronger or building bigger muscles.

One repetition max is often used in strength competitions to determine a winner. The three most common exercises performed during such competitions are the bench press, back squat, and deadlift. Each exercise typically involves the barbell, however some competitions may also make use of dumbbells and kettlebells. These exercises are believed to target all three major muscle groups in the body, providing a general reflection of total body strength.




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