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One-Rep Max (1RM) Calculator

Estimate your maximum single-rep strength from a submaximal set. Most accurate with 3–10 reps performed to near-failure. Use to set training percentages and track progress safely.

Your Lift

Most accurate with 3–10 reps performed to near-failure.

Your Result

🏆

Enter the weight and reps from a near-max set.

📋 What Your Result Means

For educational purposes only — not medical advice.

Your estimated 1RM is the foundation of percentage-based training. Update it every 4-8 weeks as you get stronger, and use the table below to program precise loads for any training goal.

% of 1RMRep RangeTraining Goal
90-100%1-3 repsMaximal strength / peaking
80-90%3-6 repsStrength development
65-80%6-12 repsHypertrophy (muscle growth)
< 65%12+ repsMuscular endurance

Source: NSCA Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning, 4th ed. (Haff & Triplett, 2016)

RPE adjustment: If you entered an RPE below 10, the calculator accounts for "reps in reserve" — the reps you could have performed but didn't. This makes the estimate more accurate for sets not taken to muscular failure, which is how most productive training sets are performed.

Accuracy note: 1RM predictions are most reliable when derived from sets of 1-6 reps. Accuracy drops significantly above 10 reps because the relationship between submaximal weight and true max becomes increasingly nonlinear. For best results, use a recent set of 3-5 reps at RPE 8-9.

Epley (1985): 1RM = weight × (1 + reps / 30)
Brzycki (1993): 1RM = weight × (36 / (37 − reps))
Lander (1985): 1RM = weight / (1.013 − 0.0267123 × reps)
Epley, B. — Poundage Chart (1985)
Boyd Epley Workout · University of Nebraska strength & conditioning
Brzycki, M. — Strength Testing — Predicting a One-Rep Max from Reps-to-Fatigue (1993)
Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance · Vol 64 (1) · DOI: 10.1080/07303084.1993.10606684
Haff, G.G. & Triplett, N.T. — Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning, 4th ed. (2016)
National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) · Human Kinetics · Training load prescription tables

Limitations

Accuracy decreases as rep count increases. Estimates are most reliable between 1–10 reps. Individual variation in strength endurance (fast-twitch vs slow-twitch fibre dominance) affects accuracy. Always approach actual max lifts gradually.

✓ Strong Evidence

Want to learn more? Read our in-depth article: How to Estimate Your One-Rep Max Without Maxing Out →

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📚 Recommended Reading

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📖
Science and Development of Muscle Hypertrophy — Brad Schoenfeld (3rd ed, 2021)
The definitive evidence-based guide to training for muscle growth, including how 1RM percentages map to hypertrophy outcomes.
View on Amazon →
📖
Starting Strength — Mark Rippetoe (3rd ed, 2011)
The classic barbell training manual that teaches how to safely test and build toward your one-rep max on the core lifts.
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🤝 Amazon-Partner: Als Amazon-Partner verdiene ich an qualifizierten Verkäufen. · As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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Training Log Notebook (~$8)
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