Want to Know Your Max?

If you’re planning to start a new strength training program you’ll more than likely need to know your 1RM. If you’re someone who lifts alone it may not be feasible to work up to a true one rep max, but you’re going to need that number to run programs like 5/3/1 or any Westside-influenced template.

This calculator will give you a calculated 1RM number, all you have to do is enter the weight you lifted and the amount of reps performed. This calculated one rep max can be used to base all the numbers of your main lift through whatever program you decide to use.

When testing a rep max make sure you keep your reps at or below 5 reps. The further you get away from 1 rep, the less likely this calculator maths out. The reason for this is that higher volume work relies on different mechanisms than absolute strength, which can make you think you’re stronger than you are. In my experience, 2-5 reps usually calculated out pretty well, and anything higher than that won’t.