Strength Training

One Rep Max Calculator

Estimate your 1RM for any lift from a submaximal set — using the most accurate formulas in sports science. No max attempts required.

1RM Calculator

Epley · Brzycki · Lander · Lombardi

Estimated 1RM (kg)

One Rep Max estimation lets you program percentage-based training without risking injury from max attempts. Best results come from sets of 2–6 reps — estimates from sets of 10+ have higher error margins. Use this to set your training percentages for programs like 5/3/1, Juggernaut, or any block training system.

Epley formula: 1RM = weight × (1 + reps/30). Most consistent across lifts and rep ranges.

Percentage-Based Training Table

Once you know your 1RM, use these percentages to set your training weights:

% of 1RMRep TargetTraining Focus
95–100%1–2Competition / max testing
85–92%3–5Strength development
75–85%5–8Strength-hypertrophy
65–75%8–12Hypertrophy
50–65%12–20Endurance / technique

Formula Comparison

Your One Rep Max (1RM) is the maximum weight you can lift for a single complete repetition with correct form on any given exercise. It is the universal standard for measuring absolute strength and the foundation of all percentage-based training programming. Rather than risking injury with true maximal attempts in routine training, 1RM estimation from submaximal sets — using validated mathematical formulas — is the standard practice in competitive powerlifting, athletic performance, and general strength training. The four most widely validated formulas are: Epley (w × (1 + r/30)), Brzycki (w × 36/(37-r)), Lander, and Lombardi. This calculator averages all four to produce the most robust estimate. All formulas are most accurate for submaximal sets of 2–6 reps — estimation error increases substantially at 10+ reps because individual fatigue resistance varies widely between athletes. Once you know your 1RM, you can set accurate training weights for any strength or hypertrophy programme by applying the percentage table below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Within ±5% for most people using sets of 3–8 reps. Estimates become less accurate at higher rep counts (10+) because individual fatigue resistance varies widely. Use a set where you had 0–1 reps in reserve for the best result.
Both work well. Sets of 3–5 at near-maximal effort give the most accurate estimates. The reps should feel like a true 3–5RM with good technique — not a comfortable 5 out of 12.
No — most programs use 85–95% of 1RM for the heaviest work sets. Attempting your true 1RM regularly increases injury risk without providing meaningful extra stimulus. For programs like 5/3/1, your Training Max is set at 90% of 1RM; for most LP programs, top sets are 80–90% of 1RM.
Yes — the rep-to-1RM conversion is lift-specific. Deadlifts and squats tolerate higher rep sets better than bench press, so formulas may slightly underestimate bench 1RM from high-rep sets. For the best accuracy, use a set of 3–5 reps on all lifts and average across formulas as this calculator does.